If you have a swimming pool in your backyard, it is essential to research swimming pool fences. Standards and regulations in NSW and throughout Australia require pool fencing around your swimming pool and are specific about the types of pool fencing and requirements you must follow.
A professional swimming pool builder like Mr Pools understands the regulations and requirements and can help you find the right pool fencing style to suit your needs without worrying about the legalities.
Standards for Swimming Pool Fences in NSW
There are specific set standards to consider when it comes to pool fencing in NSW and Australia. All pool fencing must be a minimum of 1.2 metres in height. This is to ensure that children cannot climb over the fence. In addition, any vertical gaps in the fencing must not exceed 100 mm in width.
Chain link fencing must be higher, with a minimum height of 1.8 metres, and the openings must be no larger than 100 mm across.
Pool Fence Options
There are many pool fencing types available, so it is essential to research them. Ultimately, you can install any kind of pool fencing that adheres to government standards; it comes down to choosing the type of fencing that suits your vision and unique needs.
Steel Fencing
Steel fencing is a smart option and for good reason. It is durable and budget-friendly, providing the safety you need. It can also be designed very attractively, adding to the beauty of your backyard. However, the true beauty of steel is that it is easy to care for, requiring little more than a hose down occasionally to keep it looking like new.
Aluminium Fencing
Also called aluminium slat fencing, this type of pool fencing is cost-effective and durable, with a visual look that mimics timber fencing. Unlike timber fencing, however, aluminium is not subject to damage from chlorinated water. If you are looking for the same durability and reliability that steel offers, along with the style of slatted timber fencing, aluminium is a great choice.
Aluminium has become a cheaper fence to install than ordinary metal fencing. In addition to slats, aluminium is available as tubular fencing, picket fencing, and panels. Other advantages to aluminium fencing are:
- Resistant to rust and corrosion
- Resistant to fire
- Easy to install
- Low maintenance
Glass Fencing
Glass fencing is one of the most popular pool fencing choices on the market. It’s not surprising since the material makes your swimming pool the star of your backyard space. Options for glass fencing around the pool are endless, and you can go frameless or framed to customize the look.
Glass may seem like a fragile option, but the glass options available for pool fencing are solid and long-lasting.
Vinyl Fencing
Vinyl fencing is durable, easy to maintain, and offers a traditional, sophisticated feel. Vinyl fencing is primarily made from PVC and is a popular choice for swimming pool fencing and property fencing because it is inexpensive to set up.
Timber Fencing
Wood fencing is very popular for pool areas, but you can look forward to more maintenance with this type of fencing. Timber fencing can be vulnerable to the spray from chlorinated water and, over time, will need refinishing and protective coatings applied to keep it looking its best.
Timber fencing offers a lot of aesthetic flexibility, and the fencing can be designed and stained to suit your backyard pool style.
Bamboo Fencing
Bamboo fencing is a wood-like option gaining popularity. Though it is a bit more expensive than standard timber fencing, bamboo offers a natural, authentic feel and is environmentally friendly, too. To install the fencing, bamboo poles are strung together and secured. It is strong, durable, and ideal for privacy.
Wrought Iron Fencing
Heavy-duty wright iron has been a popular type of fencing in general for centuries, and it serves well as a security fence around a pool. Solid and durable, wrought iron is ubiquitous in heritage homes and may be an ideal choice if your home is more traditional in its architecture.
Wrought iron fencing is more expensive than many of the other types of pool fencing. The price depends on several factors, including:
- The amount needed
- The complexity of the design
- The type of wrought iron used.
Wrought iron fencing is easy to install and versatile, adding beauty and value while requiring little maintenance. You may easily clean the fencing with water and a wire brush, and fresh paint may be applied as needed.
Mesh Fencing
Mesh fencing is a popular choice for swimming pool fencing because it provides ample protection while allowing light and wind to pass through.
Four primary forms of wire mesh fencing are available:
- Galvanized before and after welding
- Galvanized before and after weaving
- Stainless steel
- Vinyl coated
Mesh fencing may be knotted, welded, or woven. Mesh fencing is very common as security fencing, and smaller holes prevent tools from cutting through the fence.
Chain Link Fencing
Like mesh and metal fencing, chain link fencing provides an unobstructed view of the pool area as it protects minor children and pets from falling into the water. The metal may be coated to make it visually appealing, or natural materials may be woven through the chain links to add privacy and create greater visual appeal.
Have Questions About Types of Pool Fencing? Contact Mr Pools Today!
At Mr Pools, our knowledge of swimming pool installation and maintenance doesn’t end at the pool’s edge. We also take pride in our understanding of the laws and regulations in NSW regarding pool fencing. As skilled swimming pool contractors, we’re ready to help you with the latest information and make suggestions to help you choose from the many types of pool fencing available.
If you have any questions about pool fencing or would like more information about the many swimming pools and spa installation services we offer, contact Mr Pools today at 02 9746 3033.