The right pool fence offers two benefits: beauty and safety. Investing a bit of effort and time in choosing the right one is crucial. If you’re currently shopping for pool fencing, this guide will help you make the right decision. We will cover everything from what a pool fence is and the types available to regulations concerning pool fencing and its upkeep. Get ready to dive into the world of pool fencing.

What’s a Pool Fence? 

Having your own pool in your backyard comes with a huge responsibility that goes beyond just keeping it clean and free of chemicals—you need to ensure it’s safe, especially if you have kids and pets at home. So, what is a pool fence? It’s a secure enclosure that keeps your little ones and pets at a safe distance while also allowing you to enjoy the aesthetic appeal of your pool.

While pool fences create a beautiful outlook, the primary goal is safety. The purpose of pool fencing is to make sure that your kids and pets cannot get into the pool without you being there. This requires a certain level of height and features such as self-closing—we will discuss all this in the latter part of this guide.

What’s Out There? 

Pool fences come in all shapes and sizes, and there’s a range of materials to choose from. Decide on what works for you best based on your preference, requirements, and budget. 

• Aluminium: Though quite lightweight, aluminium is tougher and can withstand corrosion better than steel. Tall aluminium fences give you security without being too in-your-face. They connect through post-mounted brackets, so you can easily adjust them. Plus, they look modern, come in various colours, and work well with contemporary settings. 

• Steel: Stronger and sturdier than other materials, steel offers durability. They can look a bit industrial, but you can have them made with decorative finishes and give them a splash of colour. Steel pool fences give you great value for money, but they’re as high maintenance as they’re long-lasting.
  
• Wood: If you want a natural look that harmonises with your surroundings, wood is ideal. They offer you that classic, rustic look that never goes out of style. Redwood and cedar are popular choices because they wear off naturally, meaning they don’t need expensive chemical treatments that will eventually seep into your pool corrupting the water. You may need to do some work to get the stains out, but stained wooden fencing doesn’t necessarily stand out and blend in with any landscaping style. 

• Vinyl: For busy households, vinyl pool fences are ideal—they’re as low-maintenance as they come. Vinyl is better at resisting mould and can withstand seasonal effects. This makes them a popular choice for many households. You have a few style choices too, including decorative tops and scalloping. Vinyl fences are not as strong as steel or wood, but they do a great job withstanding the elements. If you’re wondering what vinyl looks like, it’s almost like wood, but it gives out a hollow sound when tapped. 

• Mesh/Cable: These are transparent pool fences that offer security as well as a breezy aesthetic appeal. Vertical posts connected by an infill of mesh or cable provide visibility while maintaining a level of privacy. Posts are often metal, but plastic options are available as well.

What is the Best Height for Pool Fencing? 

If you don’t choose the right height for your pool fence, the whole purpose of having a pool fence in the first place is defeated. The main reason for having a pool fence is to keep kids and pets away from accessing the pool unsupervised. For this reason, your pool fence should be at least four feet height. This height is generally good enough to keep kids and pets from climbing over. 

You should consider local regulations as well. Keep in mind that in Australia pool fencing regulations are quite strict. As for the height, it should be at least 1.2 metres. There should also be a 900 mm non-climbable zone around the fencing. What does that mean? That means you shouldn’t have any objects, such as trees or furniture, close to the fence that kids can use to climb over. Plus, the pool gate must be self-closing, and the latch should be at least 1.5 metres above ground level so that kids can’t reach it. 

Best Pool Fencing Styles 

Since installing a pool fence for your inground pool is required by the law, it makes sense to install one that adds to the aesthetic of your pool. It should be one that goes with your style and personal preference—you don’t want to install one that not only costs a huge amount of money but also chips away at the joy of spending time in your backyard during summer. On that note, here’s some inspiration to choose to best pool fencing style for your pool:

• White Picket Fence: This creates the ultimate modern suburban look—it’s classic and laid-back.
• Spliced Wooden Fence: A classic spliced wooden fence that does not block the view.
• Concrete Wall Fence: For that extra layer of protection, a concrete wall pool fence is perfect. It doesn’t have to be all stuffy—paint it with a colour you like, and maybe install a small wooden door that opens up the space.
• Wrought Iron Fence: Imagine a beautiful pool house with a wrought iron fence surrounded by greenery. You can plant some trees right behind the fence for an extra layer of privacy.
• Black Wooden Fence: If you like a splash of colour, a black wooden fence is ideal. It can be the centrepiece that enhances aesthetics of your backyard.
• Bamboo Fence: Bring tropical destination vibes to your backyard with a bamboo pool fence. It works well in any weather but may cost you a bit more than a classic wooden fence.
• Glass Fence: A glass pool fence adds a measure of safety while creating a clean look.

As you can see, you have numerous options when it comes to pool fencing styles. Consider your budget and preferences, and work with a pool fencing expert to achieve the right look for your home. 

Importance of Pool Fencing 

The importance of pool fences goes beyond just being a stylish addition to your backyard. A pool fence is a key safety measure that gives you peace of mind, knowing your kids or pets can’t get into the pool without you being there to keep an eye on them. That’s why pool fences are often required by law. They’re not just aesthetically pleasing; they’re also essential for safety. Find out Melbourne Pool fencing expert to get job done. We are leading pool fencing expert over 12 years and find out more details and prices by getting touch with us.