Installing a swimming pool on your property is a great addition. It provides an area where people can hang out or swim during the summer time. But once the day is done and people go home, the swimming pool should be blocked off to prevent unauthorized access or accidents. Fortunately, you can always install a safety fence for pools.
Choosing the Perfect Swimming Pool Fence
- Material. Select a durable and weather-resistant material for your fence. Common options include aluminum, vinyl, mesh, and wood. Consider the pros and cons of each material, such as maintenance needs and longevity.
- Height. Ensure the fence is high enough to prevent animals or children from climbing over it. Local regulations within Tennessee often have minimum height requirements, typically around 4 to 5 feet.
- Gates. Choose self-closing and self-latching gates with locks that are out of reach of small children. Gates should swing outward from the pool area for added safety.
- Visibility. Choose a fence that provides clear visibility of the pool area to monitor activity while maintaining aesthetic appeal. Transparent materials like mesh or glass are good choices.
- Compliance. Verify that the fence meets local building codes and safety standards. Compliance ensures not only safety but also avoids legal issues.
- Aesthetics. The design and color of the fence should match your outdoor decor and landscaping. A well-chosen fence can enhance your property’s overall appearance.
- Cost. Budget is always a factor. Evaluate the cost of materials and installation, and consider the long-term maintenance expenses when deciding.
- Installation. Decide whether you plan on hiring a professional or doing the installation yourself. Professional installation may cost more, but it ensures the fence is installed correctly and securely.
Benefits of Installing Swimming Pool Fences
- Enhanced Safety. Swimming pool fences provide a physical barrier to prevent children and pets from accidentally falling into the pool, reducing the risk of drowning.
- Compliance With Regulations. Cities like Tennessee have specific legal requirements for pool safety fences. Installing a compliant fence ensures you abide by local regulations and avoid potential fines.
- Peace of Mind. Knowing that your pool is securely fenced gives you peace of mind, especially when you cannot supervise it every time. These fences are beneficial for parents and pet owners.
- Increased Property Value. Safety features like pool fences often attract potential buyers. A well-installed fence can increase property value and marketability.
- Aesthetic Appeal. Modern pool fences come in different designs and materials that complement your landscaping and enhance your pool area’s overall look.
- Deterrent to Trespassers. A sturdy pool fence acts as a deterrent to unauthorized access, ensuring that only permitted individuals can use the pool. There are even privacy fences for pools to prevent anyone from looking over when you’re swimming.
Types of Swimming Pool Fence Systems to Choose From
Mesh Pool Fences
A mesh pool fence for above-ground pools uses durable, lightweight materials, typically vinyl-coated polyester. They are installed with poles set at certain intervals around the pool.
- Pros. These fences are easy to set up and take down, making them highly convenient for temporary needs. They offer transparency, providing clear views of the pool area. Moreover, they are climb-resistant, adding an extra layer of security.
- Cons. While functional, mesh fences may not be the most visually appealing option. Long-term exposure to the elements can also lead to wear and tear over time.
Glass Pool Fences
Glass pool fences consist of tempered panels held together by metal or wooden posts. They offer a sleek, modern appearance while maintaining an unobstructed view of the pool area.
- Pros. Known for their aesthetic appeal, glass fences blend consistently with modern landscaping designs. They are also extremely durable and provide an elegant yet robust barrier. Furthermore, these fences only need minimal maintenance.
- Cons. Despite their strength, glass fences are expensive to install. They must also be cleaned to maintain transparency, which can be labor-intensive.
Aluminum Pool Fences
Aluminum pool fences feature vertical bars and horizontal rails. They are often powder-coated for durability and available in various styles and colors.
- Pros. This type of pool fencing is rust-resistant and requires little maintenance. Aluminum is strong and durable, providing excellent security. They are also available in numerous designs, so you’ll have no trouble finding a style that complements your property.
- Cons. Aluminum fences reduce visibility, as offered by glass or mesh options. They may also be more challenging to install due to their rigid structure.
Wood Pool Fences
Wood pool fences are constructed from treated timber and can be designed in various styles, such as picket or privacy panels.
- Pros. Wood gives off a natural aesthetic and can be customized through painting or staining to match or enhance outdoor decor. It provides solid security and a traditional look that suits various home styles.
- Cons. Wood requires regular maintenance, such as staining or sealing, to prevent rotting, warping, or pest damage. It may not be as durable or long-lasting as metal or glass.
Wrought Iron Pool Fences
Wrought iron fences are made from solid metal bars and can be manufactured with various decorative elements.
- Pros. Wrought iron is incredibly tough and offers a classic, elegant look. It provides a high level of security due to its strong material and design. It’s also highly customizable to fit different architectural styles.
- Cons. These fences can be costly to install and require maintenance to prevent rust and corrosion. They might also obstruct the view of the pool area due to their solid design.
Common Tennessee Laws About Installing Swimming Pool Fences
Tennessee has stringent laws regarding swimming pool fences to ensure safety and prevent accidental drownings. The regulations pertain to residential and public swimming pools and are enforced statewide, with some variations based on local ordinances. Below are the key laws and requirements you need to be aware of when installing a swimming pool fence in Tennessee:
Fence Height and Enclosure Requirements
- Minimum Height. Fences around swimming pools must be at least 48 inches (4 feet) tall to prevent young children from climbing over.
- Maximum Vertical Clearance. There should be no more than a 2-inch gap from the bottom of the fence to the ground, ensuring that children and pets cannot crawl underneath.
- Fence Openings. Any openings, gaps, or holes in the fence should not be large enough to allow the passage of a 4-inch diameter sphere. This prevents children from squeezing through.
- Climb-Resistant Design. The fence must not have features encouraging climbing, such as horizontal rails spaced too closely together. Decorative elements must be carefully inspected to ensure they do not compromise the climb resistance of the fence.
Gate and Entry Regulations
- Self-Latching and Self-Closing Gates. Gates providing pool access must be self-closing and self-latching. The latching device should be installed at least 54 inches from the ground to make it difficult for young children to reach.
- Lockable Gates. Gates must be lockable and should remain locked when the pool is not in use. This prevents unauthorized access even if the gate’s self-latching mechanism fails.
- Swing Direction. Pool gates must open outward, away from the pool area, to ensure that a push from external forces cannot easily open the gate.
Barriers for Above-Ground Pools
- Ladder and Steps Security. For above-ground pools, steps and ladders must be secured, locked, or removed when the pool is not in use. It acts as an additional barrier preventing unsupervised access.
Local Ordinances and Permits
- Building Permits. Before installing a swimming pool fence, you may need a building permit from your local municipality. Each city or county may have additional requirements or specifications that must be met.
- Inspections. Upon installation, a local building official will need to inspect your pool fence to ensure it meets all state and local safety standards. You must schedule this inspection right away to avoid penalties.
Variations by Locality
- Supplemental Regulations. Some local areas in Tennessee may have supplemental laws that enhance state regulations to address specific community needs. It’s important to check with your local government for additional requirements that may apply.
Choose King’s Fencing to Install Your Swimming Pool Fence
You will never have a problem with the swimming pool fence installation whenever you hire King’s Fencing for the job. Our fence company has serviced different areas around Tennessee, specifically Knoxville, and provided quality fencing services for clients and their pools. We can also work with you to find the right type of fence for around the pool.
Give us a call if you have other questions about swimming pool fences.
