Swimming is the fourth most popular sport in the U.S. and a great way to cool off in the Florida heat. If you are considering having a pool installed at your home, then a fence will be required in order to adhere to Florida building codes. Safety is the main goal and we’re here to help you find the best fence so you can protect your loved ones with a swimming pool fence.
Things to Consider for a Florida Pool Fence
When choosing the perfect fence for your St. Augustine, FL swimming pool, you will want to determine your main objective, whether it be for privacy or to define your property border, and if you have any additional requirements. Some other reasons for a fence include cost, style, level of security, and more. Let’s explore some of these main considerations that will help you decide what you need.
Quality Fence Materials
The right fence materials can make all the difference between a fence that stands for decades and one that needs to be replaced after a few years. Especially when you’re fencing in your swimming pool, the material can be affected by the moisture and location. With Florida weather conditions, your fence can weather at all different levels. Wood fences can age somewhat rapidly if around water regularly, while vinyl is unaffected by the moisture. Aluminum fences are great options around pools, but if privacy is your priority, it is not the right choice. Think of replacement costs, level of required maintenance, longevity, and how well the fence will hold up in the variable Florida weather over the years.
Fence Costs
The cost of installing a pool fence will depend on several factors including the actual length and height, the fence material that you choose, and the amount of labor required to install your fence. You can get a quote for multiple types of fencing materials to determine which ones you can rule out. Make sure to weigh the cost of the fence types and your budget, along with your requirements, to determine the best fence for you.
Fence Safety & Security
You will want to ensure that your fence meets or exceeds the building codes for swimming pool barriers. So, if you’re thinking of installing a new pool, or you’re ready to update your current fencing, you need to know what to expect. Fortunately, we at SWi are well-versed in all of the codes and regulations in Florida, so you don’t have to memorize them. That being said, here are the basics so you can plan accordingly.
If you already have a privacy fence around your yard, you may or may not need an additional barrier around your pool. There are several important factors to keep in mind so let’s explore the requirements to determine if you need a pool barrier installed by a Florida fence company in addition to your privacy fence.
What are the Requirements of a Pool Barrier or Fence?
According to the safety guidelines from the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, pool barriers and fences should meet specific requirements:
- Pool enclosures in Florida should have a height of at least 4 feet above the ground.
- The maximum clearance between the ground and the bottom of the fence is 4 inches.
- Fence gates must be self-closing and self-latching and the gate’s latches must be 4 feet above the ground
- Enclosures shall be designed to withstand a horizontal concentrated force load of 200 pounds at any point of the fence enclosure.
- Spacing between vertical slats shall not exceed 1.75 inches
- Openings in the barrier shall not allow the passage of a 4-inch diameter sphere.
With these requirements in mind, it may be wise to have a secondary barrier within your yard, even if you have a privacy fence. This is especially true if you have pets or small children. The more precautions you can take to protect your family, the safer they will be!
A proper Florida pool fence is one that will securely keep children and pets out of the area and one that will latch at a height that will prevent a young child from being able to open the gate. Always check with your local municipality to find out exactly what is required on their end. When you know about all the requirements you will help to protect others and create a secure, safe pool area.
St. Augustine’s Popular Swimming Pool Fence Ideas
The options for Florida pool fencing are seemingly endless! The various materials, designs, and colors are a lot to sort through, but we’re here to help! Let’s explore some of the top choices many pool owners make in Florida.
Vinyl Pool Fencing
Vinyl fencing’s versatility is also a great choice for pool fencing. It’s almost completely weatherproof, requires virtually no maintenance, and looks brand new even after decades of use. Vinyl material is resistant to moisture and can be built in full privacy designs or with a more open look. Being more affordable than aluminum in many cases, vinyl fencing is another great option for pool fencing in Florida.
Aluminum Pool Fence
Aluminum fences are durable, weather-resistant, and easy to secure with matching gates. It’s no wonder they are a popular choice in the St. Augustine, FL area! Aluminum fences are available in various colors and designs and are built with open visibility. An aluminum fence’s classic stylish look and low-maintenance material definitely make this fence a top choice for pool areas across Florida.
Chain Link Fence Options
Florida properties that need a sturdy, economical option can benefit best from a chain link fence. Chain link is available in traditional galvanized steel or a more durable PVC coated version, and if you’d like an option that will provide more privacy, colored slats can be woven through the openings to obstruct the views of onlookers. As a long-lasting, lower-cost material, chain link fences have gained popularity in the area and are a practical option for pool fencing in the Owensboro, Florida area.
Wood Pool Fences
A typical wood fence may not be as durable as other fence material options, but does look great and lasts a long time if well maintained. Pressure-treated pine is more susceptible to rot, warping, and fading, and does need a lot of TLC. However, a better option is to use Cedarwood as your fence material as it has natural tannins, making it resistant to insects, rot, and decay. Cedar also has a more consistent grain structure allowing it to absorb and release water more uniformly, thus less susceptible to warping and twisting.
No matter what fence material you choose, as long as you have it installed by true fence professionals, it will last a long time and can be just what you need. The best way to know is to do a little research and then talk to our friendly staff who can give you the rundown based on our experiences in the St. Augustine, FL area.
SWi Florida Can Get Your Pool Ready for Summer!
When it’s time to install a new pool fence in the St. Augustine, FL area, SWi can help! We have several options that can suit any budget and fence project you have. Our expert installers can put the finishing touches on your pool fence and get you ready for season after season of swimming pool fun.
Reach our friendly, professional staff today by calling us at (866) 642-4870 or contacting us online. We’re here to help with all your questions and fencing needs!
