POOL FENCE BASICS
The first and most logical question when purchasing a pool is, What type of fence do I need around my pool? The answer though is a little subjective. Each municipality has varying requirements for pool fencing. Some require specific heights of fencing, specific picket spacing, locking and self closing gates, etc.
So to help you figure out what type of fence would work best for your pool, we put together this article that will go through 4 common types of fences and the pros and cons of each.
QUESTIONS
So the first step would be to check local fencing requirements with your local municipality. Once you have that squared away, you will want to ask yourself the following questions to hone in on what type of pool fence makes sense for you.
1: Do you want privacy around your pool?
2: Do you want a more open feel where you can see out beyond the pool area.
3: Do you want to fence around the pool or the whole backyard?
WOOD POOL FENCE
Wooden fences have been used around pools for decades. The wood fence is strong and sturdy. There are many choices in design and appearance for your fence with a wood product. The use of wood gives you the ability to go from a very basic fence to something elaborate and customized to your desire within the requirements set forth by the local municipality. Generally speaking a wood pool fence is lower cost than other typical pool fences. Custom Wood Fences built with exotic species of wood are generally on the higher end of the spectrum. Here is a quick and dirty list of the pros and cons of wood fences.
PROS CONS
Can be installed economically Requires routine maintenance
Can be customized for a high end look Will eventually deteriorate/rot
Varying wood species can create elaborate looks Shorter life span than other fencing options
Generally lowest cost of
Permanent
Can provide security and privacy in 6’ panel heights
PVC/ VINYL FENCING
PVC or Vinyl is a strong material that you can use to put a fence around your pool. PVC fencing is made of a hardened plastic (Poly Vinyl Chloride) material that holds up against weather change well. PVC fencing is for the most part low maintenance. PVC Pool Fencing maintenance can be as simples as rinsing off with a garden hose to keep your fence in great condition. Other times you may need to pressure wash and use a cleaner to remove moss, algae or staining. PVC Fencing around pools is typically available in white and used for privacy in 6’ tall sections. This is a great option when you are looking for security and the ability to screen off your pool area from the rest of you yard or your neighbors. There are many color options to choose from as well. PVC is typically the highest cost of all the pool fencing options but also has a pretty good lifespan.There are many unique options to choose from with this type of fencing. PVC pool fencing is more pricey, has a lifespan of 15-20 years and can expand with changing temperatures. Take a look at the pros and cons below to see if PVC Fencing is the right choice for you.
PROS CONS
Great for Privacy Will confine visibility to rest of yard
Last longer than wood Costs more then wood fence
Requires minimal maintenance Colored PVC Pool Fences will fade
Lasts Longer than Wood Pool Fence Is brittle when cold
Does get brittle when exposed to high uv
ALUMINUM POOL FENCE
Aluminum fencing is a timeless traditional pool fence look. When people speak of pool fence the first thing that comes to mind is aluminum fencing. Aluminum fencing is a great option for a pool site if you prefer the open feel. Black aluminum pool fencing almost becomes invisible around the pool giving you visibility to other areas outside your specific pool area. Aluminum Pool Fencing requires the least amount of maintenance of any type. Aluminum pool fencing is right on par with pricing for PVC Pool Fencing. Aluminum pool fence is quick and efficient to install and does not rust and will not rot like wood fence posts. Aluminum pool fencing also have self closing gates along with easy to use locking systems that can be customized with alarms to alert you when the gate to your pool fence has been opened. Here's another quick hit list of the pros and cons of aluminum pool fencing
PROS CONS
Creates an open feel around pool Provides no screening effect
Does not rot/rust
Self closing gates
Custom gate lock/latches with alarms
The fence becomes almost invisible
Similar price to 6’ pvc fencing
BABY LOC FENCING
Babyloc style fencing is the first removable pool fencing. This fence is great if your backyard is fenced all the way around the property line and you desire more protection right at the pool this is a good secondary option. Babyloc style pool Fencing comes in 4 or 5 feet heights to prevent/reduce access to your pool. With a matter of 10 to 15 minutes, the babyloc style fence can be taken down and put back up. Its easy to remove and install and rolls up nicely and is easy to store. This is not a stand alone pool fence. This is a secondary fencing product that wll not meet any local fencing requirements and is not meant to be left up 24/7.
PROS CONS
Great secondary option close to the pool Costs several thousands to purchase and install
Removable for pool parties Not a permanent fence
Great for keeping pets and little ones out Does not meet local requirements.
MORAL OF THE STORY:
You have really 3 good options for permanent pool fencing with a 4th as a secondary level of protection. The biggest questions that you should focus on are whether you want to fence your entire backyard or around the pool area. Next do you want privacy or do you want to see beyond the fenced in area. These 2 questions should help get you going in the right direction. Your pool builder should be able to help from this point. If you want to learn more. Check out these related articles below.
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