Last Updated on March 6, 2023
If you have a swimming pool in your home, you need to ensure that great precautionary measures are taken to avoid accidents especially if you have children or pets.
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has reported; “despite a decline, drowning is still the leading cause of unintended deaths including children age 1-4 and the third leading cause of fatality among children 5-14.”
A pool fence is the first line of defense against tragic accidents because it deters your children or pets from accessing the swimming pool without your permission or supervision. In fact, it is required by law to install a premium pool fence that has a lockable gate of you have a swimming pool at home. The average cost of installing a pool fence is $2,000 – $5,000 depending on the materials you are planning to use and the size of the fence. However, you should understand that the swimming pool gate installation price is determined by a number of factors and not solely on the number of linear feet of fence you need. Other factors that determine the cost of installing a pool fence include:
- The height of the fence
- Number of gates you are planning to have
- The surface on which the fence is being installed (grass, dirt, pavers etc.) The surface dictates the type of equipment and materials to be used to make the fence last longer and in perfect condition. Also, the surface will determine labor requirements thus affecting the total pool gate installation price
- Layout and components that are needed during installation
In many cities and counties, there are specified pool fence laws that are aimed at preventing children from gaining access to the pool by either getting over, through or under the fence. An effective pool safety fence should have the following specifications:
- Should be at least 4 feet tall
- Should have no handholds or footholds that allow climbing over the fence
- Should offer less than 4 inches clearance on the bottom to prevent children from going under the fence
- Should have a self-closing, self-locking gate to guarantee that the gate is always locked
Having a pool fence should be a requirement even though it might be costly. A pool fence costs around $18-$38 per linear foot and hence the total area covered will determine the cost of materials. Even so, the materials you choose will also affect your total cost. There are different types of pool fences to choose from depending on your preference and budget e.g. wooden planks fence, removable fences, bars made out of steel/ aluminum or wrought iron, and even glass panel fences! Each of these fences has its pros cons, hence, you need to research thoroughly to make the right choice.
Pool Safety Fence Costs In 2023
If you have a home with a pool, the primary safety measure is having a fence to avoid your swimming pool becoming a source of danger. A fence can prevent your children and pets from drowning. In fact, you don’t have to fence your entire yard, but fencing your pool is mandatory (according to state laws in your area). When you’re deciding on the type of fence, homeowners and commercial property owners have to choose a type of fencing material for their project. The type of fencing material should be factored by cost, durability, reliability, and safety. You can also choose from a removable, temporary, or permanent fence for your pool. The following user-friendly pool fencing cost guide will focus on permanent fencing options.
Types Of Pool Fencing Material:
Metal (i.e. wrought iron, steel)
Wood
Vinyl or Picket
Glass
Mesh
Metal Pool Fence Cost
Metal is used with wrought iron, galvanized, aluminum, and steel. A metal fence can be expensive according to the length and type of material you choose. In fact, they’re more expensive to have installed too. A custom made iron fence can also be quite pricey. The fact is; they’re durable, but can typically cost more. Over time a metal fence can show signs of wear from the weather. The metal can become bent, and in some cases etched allowing your children and pets to climb over it.
Cost of galvanized metal pool fence is around $1,600 and $2500 per 100 feet. Basic material prices generally range from $16 to $25 per linear foot.
Wood Pool Fence Prices
Wood fencing is a traditional pool safety method. There are several patterns to choose from and various heights. Most people choose a wood fence around their pool for privacy. In fact, when they’re properly installed a child can’t slip in between the wood slats. A wood fence can also be painted to match the exterior of your home. However, a wood fence will need periodic upkeep to extend the life of your fence. On occasion, the slats will become faulty and need to be replaced. It’s always best to use solid wood as a safety barrier around your pool.
The cost of wood pool fencing is around $1800 – $30,000 and generally ranges from $18 – $30 a linear foot.
Vinyl Pool Fencing
Many homeowners never consider vinyl for their fencing material around their pool. However, it has many of the characteristics of wood. It can be a labor-intensive project, but last up to 30 years and is very low maintenance. They also come in very pleasing designs when compared to a wood fence. The posts can be secured in concrete which takes a few days to harden. Repairing a vinyl fence can be costly because they’re repaired in sections. These sections make it easier for children and pets to slip through the broken openings and the possibility to slip in the pool.
The cost of vinyl or picket fence is between $15 to$20 per linear foot. Overall costs of vinyl or picket pool fencing are around $3,000 to$15,000. These fences are not the safest options because a child can easily climb over it.
Glass Pool Fence Is The Most Expensive
Glass is a very luxurious poolside fence. In fact, it’s one of the most stunning fencing material that can be used. You have the option of showcasing your pool (which can be tempting to curious children). Unfortunately, glass can be very expensive and may not be a cost-effective option for everyone. Tempered glass is the most durable option to avoid shattering. If the glass breaks, it can shatter in dangerous pieces. Each panel is a sheet of glass that also requires high maintenance. An alarm can be installed to let adults known when someone enters or exits the pool.
The cost of glass pool fencing is between $ 100 and $185 per linear foot. It is definitely the most expensive option and requires lots of maintenance and cleaning.
Mesh Pool Fence Cost
A mesh fence is the perfect fencing optioning for your pool. It’s impossible for your kids and pets to manipulate this type of fencing material. They’re climbing and vandal resistant and properly secure your children and pets from unintentionally entering the pool. A mesh fence is also very low maintenance. Pool fencing experts say: they’re versatile, attractive, and very strong. They give homeowners the privacy and security they need for their pool.
Depending on the height of your fence, the cost will vary. A pool fence that’s built for safety should be 4-6 feet. You want to avoid children climbing over the fence and accidentally drowning. When you’re factoring in the cost always consider the installation fees. Always hire a professional to avoid potential problems with your fence later on. An expert pool fencing technician can give your fence a professional appearance. A temporary fence can cost between $1000-$5000 but some of the mesh pool fences are permanent which is why they are approved by building codes. Always consider a permanent fence to save yourself time and money. A professional can also help you decide on the right material for your pool according to your unique situation. Their expertise can go a long way in helping you make a cost-effective decision for a pool fence. Look for a professional that has several successful completed installations in fencing. Their prices will be determined by your installation needs. They can also help you choose a fence set forth by the laws according to your state. With so many options, it’s important to choose the right fence.
The cost of mesh with installation is $2500 – $5000 or $16-$30 per linear foot depending on various factors like the height and the types of mesh you choose.
In fact, the type of fence you choose will require a great deal of maintenance over time. Does your budget include the long-term maintenance or upkeep of a swimming pool fence? For example, a glass and metal fence will require regular washing to keep them clean. There is also intense maintenance required for the upkeep of the wooden fence. Maintenance also includes repairs. Address your need for an aesthetic appeal, but make sure it meets your long term budget and safety needs. The law in most states requires that your poolside fence be at least 4 feet. The gate on your pool must also have automatic closing and latching mechanisms.
The risk that a pool poses to young children has caused city and government officials to set guidelines and regulations. Children can be carefree in their wandering and swimming pool regulations will protect your child and secure them from harm. Unfortunately, a parent can’t keep their eyes on their child all the time. A child needs constant supervision when you have a pool and a fence acts as added security measures. The proper pool fence is a necessity. In fact, it’s important to keep your child safe while they’re playing in the yard around a pool. When you choose a fence, the most important factor is safety.
Additional cost factors
Besides the type of fence you choose, these factors will also impact the final cost of installing a pool fence:
- Alarms – most people prefer installing an alarm on the fence gate to further boost security. If you are planning to install an alarm on the back door of your house or on your pool fence gate, be prepared to spend more
- Location – materials and labor needed in the installation cost more in some areas. Hence, the availability of labor and installation materials may impact your budget. For instance, you might have to drive around looking for installation materials or a contractor
- Removal of an existing fence – if you already have an existing fence, you will have to remove it before installing a new one. You will probably need to hire a handyman at a cost or you can do it yourself
- The contractor you hire – contractors have different prices. To get a better deal, get at least 3 quotes from different contractors to help you compare and make a choice. However, don’t make price your main factor to consider when hiring a contractor because there are unreliable contractors out there offering lower prices. You will get what you pay for.
Conclusion
A swimming pool fence can give parents peace of mind. It will stop unwanted guests and protect you from liability. Unwanted guests can frequent your pool when you’re home or away. More importantly, it’s important to choose a child-proof fence. A child-resistant fence is one that a child won’t be able to scale or manipulate. The laws surrounding a pool fence can be found among your city and state ordinances. Safety can never be measured with a dollar amount. Do your part to make sure small children and pets are safe around your pool by adding a quality fence.
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