Fences for Above Ground Pools
An above ground pool can be an excellent choice if you’re planning to have a pool in your home. In comparison to in ground pools, above ground pools offer some benefits to the homeowner – they are easier and faster to install and cost much less, to name just a few. However, homeowners are often faced with the perplexing question: “do you need to have a pool fence around an above ground pool”. The fact is that there are legal regulations in place for this type of pool fence. As such, it is something worth looking into in detail.
The Law on Pool Fences
Before you construct an above ground pool, or any pool for that matter, you must check up on the local laws and regulations on having the pool fence. Not all counties and regions require a pool fence. In other cases, the law might require you to put up a pool fence in order to protect people from accidentally slipping into the pool and drowning. While the chances of that happening in above ground pools are slim in contrast to in ground pools, you may still be legally obliged to get a pool fence and it’s much safer. So if you’re wondering whether you need to have a pool fence around an above ground pool, the answer would be a resounding yes in most cases! In certain areas however, these types of pools are exempted from the rule provided certain conditions are met.
Why Choose Above Ground Pools?
There are quite a few reasons why above ground pools are better than their in-ground counterparts. Here are some of them:
- Cost: The biggest benefit to having an above ground pool is the lower cost. For in-ground pools, you need to spend money on the excavation of the property. It is also difficult to get the required permission to do so. Additionally, the plumbing for these pools tends to cost more than the aboveground variety of pools.
- Features: Despite the difference in the elevation of the pools, you can still have the same features. You can have features such as water fountains, Jacuzzi, diving boards and more in an aboveground pool easily.
- Installation: Installing an aboveground pool is much easier than an in ground pool as mentioned above. After all, there is no excavation required. In many cases, an aboveground pool can be installed in just a couple of days. The same cannot be said about in ground pools.
- Semi-Permanent: One of the best things about an above ground pool is that it can be dismantled as easily as it can be installed. You can easily move it to a different location in your property if you so choose.
Above Ground Pool Fencing Considerations
So without any further ado, let’s examine some of the basic considerations when building a fence around an above ground pool.
Safety
Pools are a great addition to any property and offer a great recreational activity on hot summer days for the young and old alike. However, safety is a top consideration when you’re building a fence around the above ground pool. Although the probability of someone falling and drowning in an above ground pool is less as compared to an inground pool, it’s not unheard of. It’s better to be safe than sorry.
Especially if you have children or pets, installing a fence around your pool would relieve you of the stress of the impending danger and the burden of constantly having to watch over them. It’d be easier to relax and enjoy the benefits of the pool once you’re assured you have taken the necessary precautions and have nothing to worry about.
For homeowners without children or pets, it’s still a good idea to have a fence around the pool, as no one is immune to accidents. Furthermore, many people host pool parties and under the influence of alcohol, it’s easy for anyone to lose their balance and trip, which may even prove to be life threatening. So do you need to have a pool fence around an above ground pool? Yes. Absolutely.
Go ahead and build that much-needed fence around your pool, regardless of how unnecessary you might think it is.
Enclose Completely
Many DIY fences for above ground pools are available these days. These are quite easy to install but it helps to ensure that the entire pool is completely enclosed, with no gaps or tiny spaces big enough to allow a child or pet to sneak through. However, don’t forget to leave adequate space for a gate so you can get in and out!
Check and Double Check?
After installing the above ground pool fence, the last step is to check for any problems like gaps in between the fencing or loose parts. It’d be best to ensure there are no tiny or hidden gaps for children, pets, or even small animals like squirrels or possums to squeeze through.
Facts about Fencing for Above the Ground Pool Fences
While pool fencing an above the ground pool, there are a few things to consider:
- Preparation: Before installing a pool fence, you should talk with the local building authorities and find out if there are any pool fencing building codes that you need to follow. Get permission from the insurance company to ensure that your pool fences meet their rules.
- Materials: There are a few options when it comes to the material of the pool fence that you are building. However, vinyl pool fencing and aluminum pool fencing are the most common choices. They are unlikely to catch rust or rot despite their proximity to water around the pool area as these are resistant to damage from moisture.
A pool fence around an above ground pool can enhance its overall safety by a considerable margin. However, you must ensure that it has been installed by a reputed contractor for the best results. Chosen and installed correctly, a pool fence can last for a long time.
Are you ready for that fence around your pool? Aluminum Fences Direct offers a variety of aluminum pool fences. For more detailed installation instructions, be sure to check out our resources page. Contact us today to get started with installing that much needed fence around your pool!