Getting a fencing is a simple task– actually, it may be required by the local legislation. However, what type of fencing is the best for you? That’s a more difficult issue. How to choose a pool fence?

As with any element of pool design, there is a wide variety options and not a single clear answer. The perfect pool fencing should be chosen based your pool, yard size, individual preferences, and of course, your budget.

If you’re at a crossroad with regards to this big decision, you’re not alone. This is usually one of the hardest decisions you have to make when constructing a pool. As the reference point, below is a brief guide to sorting through a huge variety of pool fencing options available, including the varieties of pool fences and different materials and styles out there.

What to pay attention to in a pool fence

As a rule, a pool fence doesn’t differ from a common backyard fence, which goes along the property boundary. Actually, you may already have this fencing before installing a pool. Nevertheless, there are some crucial requirements of a pool fence that a normal fence my not fulfill. Below are some of the characteristics that distinguish the pool fence:

• Security. This it’s definitely the most essential function of a pool fence. Other fences may be intended to keep animals at bay, or just serve as a decoration. A pool fence is used not to let people in – especially kids who may get into the water unattended.
• Observance. In relation to the first point, most regions require private pools to have a kind of barrier surrounding them. In addition, the specifications established by pool safety laws can be fairly detailed. Usually, an ideal pool fence should be about 4 feet tall and have a self-closing and that’s self-blocking gate.
• Appearance. As regards as your pool’s looks, the best option would be to have no fence at all. However, as it is obligatory, the purpose is to look for a fence that compliments your pool’s design, or at least blends in with the backdrop.
• Privacy. Almost all pool owners want a backyard privacy. After all, pools can draw a crowd, which may not be exactly what you want when laying in the sun.

Types of fencing

Pool fences are available in lots of different forms; however, all of them fall within one of two categories: perimeter or interior.

• Perimeter. This type of fence encompasses the whole yard, usually connecting to the house and passing along the property boundary. Simply put, it’s just a backyard fence that also acts as a protective barrier for a pool.
• Interior. This type of pool fence is located within the yard and covers a smaller territory (including the pool). This variety of fence is perfect for families with small kids, because it keeps them out of the pool while ensuring them freedom in the rest of the yard.

Many people opt for protecting their pools with removable pool fence. This is a kind of interior fence, which can be dismantled in the off-season, or taken down for good when you don’t need them anymore (for instance, when the children grow up).

We should mention a few other options. One of them is a pool screen enclosure, which not just protects your pool from children, but also defends you from pests. Moreover, if you wish to improve the security of your pool, you should take a look at a pool safety net or other kind of safety cover.

Styles and building materials

That’s where the variety of options is actually wide. A pool fence must comply with specific safety standards, but apart from that, it can come is many various forms. Below are the most popular options:

• Wood. Considering a backyard fence, wood is perhaps the first thing that pops into your head. Wooden pool fences are beautiful and excellent for privacy, but also requires additional maintenance.
• Maintenance-free materials. If you wish to buy a fence that doesn’t require much routine maintenance, think of such materials as sheeting, aluminum or polyvinyl chloride. Such fence materials are popular among the pool owners who wish to spend more time swimming than caring for the pool.
• Panels again posts. If you wish to be able to see around the pool area, you probably require a pool fence consisting of posts. If privacy is more important for you, panels is a better option.
• Glass. Glass pool barriers are becoming more and more popular, mainly due to the fact that they’re so easy to maintain. Certainly, that’s only given that the glass is clean on either side, which only highlights the fact that maintenance is a drawback of this kind of fence.
• Chain link. Chain link may look like a poor choice but remember that you can easily cover it with a hedge to add privacy and aesthetics. However, one possible stumbling block is that chain link can provide a support point for potential climbers, which may be prohibited by your local pool safety laws.

Are you still not sure what kind of fencing to choose? The best source of guidance is your pool constructor. The know the local pool safety laws perfectly and have an idea of what pool fencing options are in demand in your region.