Exclusive entry: fences make perfect neighbors … and safe ones, too

Pool & Spa News, August 6, 2004

Why are fences important?

* While not a substitute for supervision, fences are an essential first step to safety. They provide a secure perimeter, keeping people from gaining unapproved access to the pool.

* In most areas, pool owners must enclose their property with a fence, wall or similar barrier to comply with building codes. Without a fence, the building inspector won't sign off on your pool, and you could risk delays in getting into the water.

* Fences serve practical and aesthetic purposes. They can be used as privacy shields from neighbors, act as wind blocks and provide backdrops for backyard landscaping.

What type of fencing is best for me?

Fencing is available in a variety of styles, colors and price ranges. Popular fencing materials include wood, acrylic, chain-link, powder-coated aluminum, vinyl, wrought iron and mesh.

You'll want to include a self-closing, self-latching gate on your fence. This ensures that the gate will shut securely behind you every time. Of course, the latch should be positioned at a height beyond a child's reach.

Total pool fencing

Safety experts recommend that pools be fenced in on all sides. While building codes vary, a pool fence should stand at least 4 feet high. To prevent kids from climbing over the fence, it shouldn't feature any foot- or handholds. Spaces between the slats or gaps should be no greater than 4 inches wide. Any openings in the fence, including the diamond-shaped holes in chain-link varieties, should be no more than 1 3/4 inches.

Perimeter fencing

Some homeowners prefer fencing options that use the back wall of the house as the final side of the barrier. While this sort of fence provides protection against outside entry, it doesn't block access to the pool from those inside the home. If you prefer to go this route, experts strongly advise that you also install a safety cover on the pool, as well as alarms on any windows and doors that open to the pool area.

Removable fencing

Another option is a removable mesh fence, which provides a temporary barrier around the pool. Available in a variety of heights and colors, the fencing consists of taut mesh sheets attached to poles that sit securely in holes drilled into the pool's deck. For those times when you'd prefer not to have the barrier in place, the poles can be unlatched, allowing for the fencing to be removed. Little caps are placed into the holes for a finished look when the fence is not in use.

Pool enclosures

While not fences per se, these heavy-duty framed structures, which feature lockable entryways, also can restrict access to the pool. Framed in a variety of materials, from wood to powder-coated aluminum, the enclosures most often include screens or windows to create an indoor/outdoor look.

Some benefits: They can be used year 'round in many areas, provide a barrier between the yard and the pool, keep bugs and leaves out, eliminate wind chill, and diffuse the sun's rays. For homeowners with more coin to spend, there are retractable (telescopic) structures that resemble greenhouses when in use. Because most enclosures attach to the house, however, experts recommend the use of additional layers of protection such as pool, door and window alarms.

What should I ask my pool professional about fencing?

What are my city's building/safety code requirements? Cities may have different criteria. If a permit is required for the project, you'll want to ensure that your installers have obtained it before getting started.

What type of fencing will work best for my pool area? With so many options out there, it would be helpful to have an expert's take on product selection. You'll want to factor in the style of your home; how the material will hold up in your area's weather conditions (whether freeze/thaw is a factor); how permanent the barrier will be; and more.

Can I install the fencing myself? Many fences can be installed by do-it-yourselfers. However, some manufacturers will only honor their fences' warranties if the work is done by professionally trained installers. If that's the way you want to go, it is recommended that you hire licensed, bonded and insured installers.

Word to the wise

* Keep the area around the fence free of furniture and clutter. Not only can these items be used to prop open the gate, but they also can be stacked, allowing youngsters to climb over the fence.

* Be sure the gate opens outward. That way, if a child pushes on a gate that's ajar, it will close.

* Your homeowner's association may have regulations about the type/style of fencing that can be used in your home. Before selecting it, ask the association for an updated list of its specifications, and check to see if you need prior approval from the association before installing a fence.