Pool Fence
Having a backyard pool is fun, relaxing, and a great way to spend time with family and friends. However, to keep everyone safe and prevent pool accidents, invest in a pool fence.
What to Look for When Picking a Pool Fence
Having your own backyard pool is a fun way to spend your day, gather with family and friends, relax or get some exercise. However, to keep everyone safe, invest in a pool fence to keep unsupervised children and unwanted visitors from jumping in. You may also be legally required to have one in your state or jurisdiction whether you are a homeowner or renter. Check your local requirements.
Fences Prevent Accidents
Let’s take a look at some of the statistics. According to the CDC, unintentional drowning claims roughly 11 lives daily in the U.S. and is the leading cause of death for children ages 1-4. For children ages 14 and under, drowning is the second leading cause of unintentional injury death after motor vehicle crashes.
The CDC also reports a four-sided fence that separates the pool from the yard reduces a child’s risk of drowning by 83-percent.
Consider installing a pool alarm as another layer of protection. A good one will be sensitive enough to detect children and animals in the water, but won’t be triggered by wind or rain.
Types of Pool Fences
PVC is a strong, hardened plastic that can stand up to the elements, but not as well as aluminum. PVC fencing comes in slatted or solid designs and offers more privacy. You may need to have it professionally installed.
Chain link and wrought iron fences are the two most popular types of metal fences. They are durable and low-maintenance. Wrought iron, however, can rust due to sun and rain exposure, and will need to occasionally be sanded and painted.
Aluminum fences, which come in traditional wrought iron designs, are also very durable and don’t rust.
A chain link fence is affordable, but not the safest. Children and animals can easily climb one and make their way into the pool area.
Vinyl is sturdy, fairly weather resistant and can last up to 30 years. A key feature of vinyl is its low-maintenance.
Wooden fences come in a variety of styles and are durable. However, they will need periodic upkeep, like painting and staining, to extend their lifespan.
Glass is the most expensive type of pool fence. However, it is beautiful, functional and allows you to see the pool. A glass fence is not the best choice if you live in an area that experiences severe weather.
Features to Consider
Think about the height that best fits your needs. To keep toddlers and pets safe, a 4-foot fence may do, but if you have a growing child, invest in a higher fence.
Be aware of the ground clearance and the width of gaps. Make sure a child can’t climb under or through the fence. Also, be sure the fence doesn’t have makeshift hand and foot holds that kids can hoist themselves up on.
Ready to Improve Your Outdoor Space?
Excel is your number one source in the Greater Baltimore Region for all of your fencing and decking needs. We’ve been in business since 1998 and pride ourselves on customer satisfaction. For more information or to set up a consultation, call us at 410-803-9499 or fill out one of our contact forms.