Pool fencing: What you need to know

A swimming pool in your backyard can create a lot of happy memories. Think about all the fun summer activities, barbecues and parties you can have. And it doesn’t hurt that swimming is said to be one of the best forms of exercise.

If you are thinking of having a pool installed or buying or renting a house with a pool, you need to be aware of the pool fencing regulations in your state. You also need to learn about the different options available and how much each would cost.

A swimming pool poses a lot of risks, especially if you have young kids. To ensure the safety of the whole family, rules and regulations have been set for everyone to follow.

Beginning in 2010, each state and territory requires that all swimming pools be registered and inspected. They each have their own fencing requirements, but all have a common goal of preventing drowning, which is the most common cause of preventable deaths among children. This is why access to the pool must be regulated at all times by putting up a fence around it.

In general, a pool fence must:

• Be at least 4 feet high
• Have no footholds or handholds to allow climbing
• Be less than 4 inches from the bottom of the fence to the ground
• Have a self-closing, self-locking gate

Swimming pool safety does not only include putting up a fence. Homeowners and tenants are also responsible for maintaining the pool fence, registering the pool, keeping the pool gates closed, and obtaining and renewing a pool safety certificate.

Types of pool fences

• Aluminium
• PVC
• Wood
• Glass

Deciding on which type of pool fence to install requires a lot of thought and planning. The main things to consider are your budget and which type will go well with the overall look of your house. You also have to look at the advantages and disadvantages of each type of pool fence. Is it durable and easy to maintain, and can the material withstand extreme weather conditions? The good news is that there are so many pool fencing options to choose from, so you can definitely find one that best suits your purpose.

Pool fencing rates

The biggest factors that affect price include the type of fence to be installed, the size of the pool area, and the labour costs. Many pool owners, especially those with young children, also install alarms on their pool gates for additional security. Any enhancements or upgrades, such as a taller fence, will also cost you extra.

If you want to get quotes from fence contractors or advice from professionals, just post a job at ServiceSeeking.com.au.