As if swimming weren’t risky enough, there are some people who may think they can get away with not having a fence around their pool. You might be surprised to know that even though you have your cover on and everything seems fine – it isn’t!
Statistics show that most drowning cases happen not because they were taking laps but because kids were unattended for a few moments and jumped into the pool to take a quick dip. It only takes a few seconds for something like this to happen. Imagine if that were your child.
Table of Contents
Pool Safety Around the World
Most developed countries have strict pool fence laws, and for a good reason. In the US, for example, there are local laws and most of them do require that any home with a pool or spa have a fence at least 4 feet high around it. The fence must have a self-closing, self-latching gate that opens outward away from the pool.
While some homeowners may think they don’t need a fence because they have a cover on their pool, it’s important to remember that covers can and do fail. A fence is the only way to ensure that your loved ones are safe around the pool.
Pool Fence and Its Importance
There are a few reasons why you should have a fence around your pool. Aside from complying with state laws, a fence can provide the following:
Security
A fence provides a physical barrier that can deter intruders from entering your property and coming into contact with your pool. This is often an overlooked benefit, but it’s an important one nonetheless.
Safety
As we mentioned earlier, a fence is the best way to keep your loved ones safe from drowning. It’s also effective in keeping pets and other animals out of the pool area. Unfortunately, even with a cover on your pool, there is still the risk of someone getting into the water. With a fence, that risk is greatly minimized.
It’s important to remember that a pool fence is not a substitute for supervision. No matter how safe your fence may be, it’s always important to keep an eye on the little loved ones when they are around the pool.
Visual Appeal
A well-designed fence can add to the overall aesthetic of your home and yard. There are a variety of fencing materials and styles to choose from, with mesh pool fences being one of the most popular options. Mesh fences are attractive, durable, and affordable.
Peace of Mind
While a pool fence may not be required by law in your area, installing one is still a good idea. Nothing beats the peace of mind that comes with knowing your loved ones are safe and sound when around the pool area.
Why Choose Mesh Pool Fencing?
As the summer is already here, many people love swimming and spending time outdoors. Now that we know the different benefits of having a pool fence, let’s take a look at some of the reasons why mesh pool fencing is such a popular choice.
Mesh pool fences are made from a strong yet lightweight material woven into a tight mesh. The holes in the mesh are small enough to prevent children and animals from getting through but large enough to allow for airflow and visibility.
Mesh fences come in various colors and styles, so you can find one that will complement your home and yard. They are also easy to install and require very little maintenance.
Most importantly, mesh fences provide a high level of safety for both children and animals. These are popular among homeowners because they are affordable, attractive, and safe. If you are looking for an excellent way to keep your loved ones safe around the pool, a mesh fence is a perfect solution.
Pools installed with mesh fences are designed with safety in mind. Despite their popularity, however, mesh fences are not the only type of fence that can be used for pools. There are a variety of fencing materials and styles to choose from, so you can find one that will complement your home and yard. It’s important to remember that a pool fence is not a substitute for supervision. No matter how safe your fence may be, it’s always important to keep an eye on the little loved ones when they are around the pool.
Getting Started: Pool Fence DIY
Now that you know the different reasons why you should have a fence around your pool, it’s time to start shopping for the perfect fence. Mesh pool fencing is a popular choice, primarily because of its easy DIY installation.
A mesh pool fence system is an excellent option if you’re handy with tools and like to do things yourself. These fences are easy to install and can be done on the weekend. The best part about a DIY project is that you can save money by doing it yourself.
Start by deciding where to place your fence. Measure the area around your pool and draw a simple sketch of the layout. This will help you to determine how much fencing you need. Grab a tape measure and a few stakes, and mark out the fence’s perimeter.
Once you have determined the placement of the fence, it’s time to start drilling holes for the posts. Once the holes are drilled, you can insert the posts and start attaching the fencing.
To attach the fencing, start at one end and work your way around. The fencing should be taut but not too tight. You may need to use a come-along or ratchet to get the proper tension. Once the fence is fully installed, you can add any final touches, such as trimmings or gate latches.
We’re done with the hard part! The following parts are easier, and all you need is your pool fence system. ChildGuard has a pool fence DIY mesh pool fence system that’s easy to install and looks great! Made with reinforced PVC, Marine Grade 6063 T6 aluminum poles, and chambered stainless steel rods that are rust-resistant, this system is perfect for your pool. You may need to drill some holes on the ground to make this work, but all the necessary hardware is included, so you don’t need to worry about that.
Most mesh fences come with a 36″ pole spacing distance, which is a good distance to maintain visibility while also providing safety. However, if you need custom sizing, you can also find some that can be customized according to your specifications. At the end of the day, the main goal is to provide a safe and secure area, and peace of mind, for you and your loved ones.
Tips When Installing Mesh Pool Fence DIY
Working on a DIY pool fence project is no rocket science. With the right fence, it’s a simple installation that anyone can do. The following are some tips to help make the installation process a little smoother:
Follow the Manufacturer’s Instructions
It’s normal to feel excited and just want to get the project started, but it’s essential to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for installation. This will ensure that your fence is properly installed and that all of the safety features are in place.
Use a Level
To ensure that your fence is straight and level, use a level when installing it. This will help to avoid any unwanted bumps or curves in the fence. Alternatively, if you don’t have one, you can use a string and a level to make sure that the fence is installed correctly.
Check for Gaps
Once the fence is installed, it’s important to check for gaps. Test the fence’s durability yourself by trying to push on it or pull it apart. If there are any gaps, make sure to fill them in so that the fence is secure.
Safety First!
Even when installing a mesh pool fence, safety is always important. For DIY pool fence systems, make sure to have someone help you when lifting and installing the posts. This will help to avoid any accidents or injuries.
Ensure All Screws and Bolts are Tight
After the fence is installed, it’s important to check all of the screws and bolts to make sure that they are tight. This will help to avoid any movement or wobbling of the fence.
Regularly Inspect Your Fence
After installation, ensure that you inspect your fence regularly. Ideally, you should do this at least once a month. Check for any gaps, loose screws, or damage to the fence. This will help ensure that your fence is always in good condition and safe to use.
Use a Power Drill
Manually screwing in the bolts and screws can be time-consuming. To save time and increase efficiency and accuracy, use a power drill. This will help to make sure that all of the bolts and screws are tightened correctly.
Final Thoughts
There’s nothing scarier than an unprotected pool. Building a good pool fence is one of the best ways to ensure that your pool is safe and secure. With a mesh pool fence DIY system, it’s easy to install and can be done in just a few hours. Ensure the manufacturer’s instructions for installation, and don’t forget to regularly check the fence for any damage or gaps.
Investing in a good and high-quality fence is one of the best decisions you can make to ensure your loved ones’ safety. It can also provide peace of mind for you and your family as an added bonus. With a mesh pool fence DIY system, there’s no need to worry about any installation headaches – it’s easy to do and can be completed in just a few hours.