Pools and hot tubs are a family favorite for summer fun. While they may be fun without the proper precautions in place they can become dangerous. This is why many states have laws in place that state pool fencing needs to be in place where ever a pool or hot tub is in place. Pool fences help to prevent falls and drowning saving thousands of lives every year.
When it comes to adding a fence to your pool area you should first check with the local municipalities to determine any special regulations that are needed. It does not make sense to purchase a fence for the area only later to determine that local guidelines were not followed. Many of the considerations surrounding pool fence requirements include the type of pool, above ground or in ground, the material of the fence, the height of the fencing and the type of a gate and lock installed.
When looking into a fence it is good to know that the fence needs to be designed with young children in mind. The primary reason pool fences are installed is to keep children safe around water. Drowning is the leading cause of injury and death in children between the ages of one and four. A fence should surround the pool and be installed with a self-closing, self latching gate. Even if your home does not have little children in it consider visitors welcomed and not. Accidents happen, that is why they are accidents.
There are many varieties of material to choose from when looking into fencing for your pool area. One of my favorites for durability, ease of installation, easy maintenance and style is aluminum fencing. Aluminum pool fencing is available in a variety of colors, styles and heights. It can easily be anchored into existing concrete pads or newly poured concrete. Aluminum fencing is also great as it is rust-proof.
Wood fencing is another option in pool fencing. When purchasing wood fencing for your pool area it is good to note that this material will need regular maintenance including cleaning and weather proofing. This is a major drawback to wood fencing as well as the low visibility it provides inside of the pool area. Wood fencing is not a first choice for most pool owners as the extra maintenance and upkeep usually detour wood in favor of something with ease of maintenance even when it costs a bit more.
In warmer climates where many homeowners have a pool indoor small mesh fences are used. Even with this, a safety fence is needed for the pool area. A vinyl and mesh fence is placed around the edge of the pool area. The fence relies on vertical post placed into the concrete and a non-climbable mesh attached to the posts. The fence is removable when the pool is in use and is required to be installed when the pool is not in use. This ensures that even if a small child were to get out onto the porch area where the pool is the water remains blocked and off limits.
A gate and latch is recommended for all pool areas. Locking mechanisms vary however something more complex, a self closing, self latching, self locking option is recommended for optimal security for the pool area. Mesh fences aren’t required to have a gate if the owner is willing to remove the mesh each time the pool is in use. The main thing for pool safety to be effective is that the lock needs to be used each and every time the pool is unsupervised.
Great deals in aluminum pool fencing can be found online. Most sellers also have a direct connection with fence installers local to your area if you are not interested in installing the fence on your own. The key element to look for in purchasing aluminum fencing for your pool online is a reputable seller that offers assistance before; during and after you purchase your pool fence.