We’re approaching the hot Texas summer and your pool will be used more than ever. Before you invite everyone over to your annual pool party, make sure that your pool and backyard are safe and secure with a pool fence.
While they’re not mandatory everywhere, many cities, counties and insurance companies require that you have a fence around your pool. However, if they’re not required in your area, investing in a pool fence can actually increase your home’s resale value, while protecting pets and children from accessing this potentially dangerous feature.
What to Look for in a Perfect Pool Fence
When you’re looking for a pool fence to meet your needs, there are several factors that should be considered. Some may want the security of an electric or automatic gate while others might prefer something more traditional like wood panels and iron gates with sturdy locks.
- Keep Gaps at a Minimum – The gap in your pool fence can be a real problem. It allows small pets or children to slip through and larger individuals like you would need supervision before entering the water safely. The best way around this issue is by installing an automatic open-close feature on all gates, posts, rolls etc., so that they close when pushed instead of opening up wide enough for anyone who might want quick access!
- Combat Climbing – To keep curious kids and pets from climbing over your fence, make sure the material you choose doesn’t allow them to climb it easily.
- Durability – The fence around your pool should be built to withstand the elements, including moisture and wind. It’s not only important for your fence to stand up but also to clean easily so you can have a healthy backyard environment.
- Safety – Your pool fence should be designed to maximize safety, with self-closing and latching gates as well as a layout that works within your property’s boundaries.
When choosing a fencing style for your backyard, you don’t have to be limited. There are a variety of fencing options that will work well as a pool fence, while still complementing your home’s style. Take a look at some of the most popular pool fencing options below!
Wrought Iron Pool Fence
A classic option for residential pools, ornamental iron fences safeguard your pool, without completely blocking it from your view. This is one of the most popular options as a pool fence because after installation, you will still be able to see through the fence and enjoy the blue waters of your pool! Because there are gaps in between the iron bars, many people opt to add wire-mesh to the bottom half of the fence so that small pets can’t squeeze through the bars. If that’s one of your concerns however, and you don’t like the idea of adding wire to the bottom of your fence, you might consider an iron fence with the iron bars closer together, with a 3 inch gap instead of the standard 4 inches.
Wood Privacy Pool Fence
For complete privacy and security, a wood privacy fence is hard to beat. Unlike the wrought iron fence we mentioned above, there are no gaps in a wood privacy fence, so small pets and children will not be able to squeeze their way through. That being said, depending on where your pool is situated in your backyard, you may rarely see the pool from your house because it is so well protected. Wood privacy fences can be stained or painted to match your personal taste, and the planks can be positioned vertically or horizontally to further customize the look. When debating between an wrought iron fence and wood privacy fence, it all comes down to your personal preferences.
Vinyl Pool Fence
It’s no surprise that vinyl pool fences are so popular. For one, they offer an affordable price point when compared to other types of fencing for pools; there are also tons of styles available in the long term which will keep you satisfied through any fashion change-ups! Finally, vinyl fences can be cleaned easily without damaging their surface or quality with harsh chemicals – making them perfect household with kids who love getting in the pool.
What Materials Make for a Low Maintenance Pool Fence?
Fencing is an important part of your backyard, but it’s not always easy to choose which material will work best. The best material for pool fences is going to be aluminum, mesh or vinyl depending on what you want your backyard look like; if rust isn’t an issue then choose treated wood which requires minimal maintenance but does need occasional repairs due to weathering from rain! You can’t go wrong with a quick hose down and some fresh paint every now and then.
Get the Perfect Pool Fence for Your Backyard
If you still have questions about which option is the best for your home, there is no need to fear – our fencing experts are available to answer any questions you may have. Give them a call today!