The joy of owning a backyard pool comes with the immense responsibility of keeping loved ones safe in and around the water. While pools provide endless summer fun for family and friends, they also pose serious risks if proper precautions aren’t taken. Drowning remains a leading cause of death for young children, underscoring the need for effective barriers like pool fencing.

Unfortunately, even well-intentioned pool owners can overlook or make common mistakes when installing and maintaining their pool fences. Small oversights can lead to fence flaws that compromise safety and accidentally leave the pool area accessible. By learning the most common mistakes, homeowners can proactively safeguard their backyard oases.

This article will overview the top 7 pool fence mistakes that put safety at risk. Avoid these pitfalls, and give your family peace of mind knowing their pool is as secure as possible. Keep reading to learn where many pool owners unknowingly go wrong and get tips to steer clear of these potential hazards. With some key adjustments, your pool fence can go from a vulnerability to a reliable guardian.

Mistake #1: Choosing the Wrong Materials

When selecting a material for your pool fence, there are several important factors to consider besides just aesthetics. The right fencing material should offer durability, longevity, and security. Common options each come with their pros and cons:

• Wood provides a classic, charming look but requires frequent maintenance and sealing. It may warp or decay in certain climates.

• Vinyl holds up well against weather but can become brittle in extreme cold or hot temperatures. It offers good durability for the cost.

• Aluminum is very durable and low maintenance but carries a higher upfront cost. It also conducts heat.

• Chain link is affordable and easy to install but lacks privacy and can be climbed.

Take time to research how different materials withstand your local weather and environment. Consider the maintenance needs, life expectancy, and your budget. For safety, be sure to select durable, sturdy materials that will stand the test of time and protect your family. Aesthetics are important but should not override security.

For the best guidance tailored to your climate and regulations, consult qualified fencing contractors or installers before deciding. They can assess your home landscape and recommend the ideal materials and style. Investing in expert advice can prevent costly mistakes down the road.

Choosing the right pool fence materials requires balancing several factors – durability, cost, weather resistance, safety, and aesthetics. Do your homework first, then rely on the experts for personalized recommendations before making this very important decision. The material you choose can impact the safety and security of your pool for years to come.

Mistake #2: Ignoring Local Regulations: A Risky Route

Failing to comply with local pool fence regulations and permitting requirements can have serious consequences that no pool owner wants to face. Many homeowners wrongly assume they can bypass the proper protocols, whether due to a lack of awareness or an attempt to save time and money. However, this decision can come back to haunt you.

Most jurisdictions require pool owners to obtain proper permits and adhere to safety codes regarding fence height, spacing between slats, gates, and other specifications. Failure to do so can result in hefty fines, with some areas imposing penalties of up to $1000 per day of violation. You may even be required to tear down or modify the non-compliant fence at your own expense.

Even more alarming, ignoring pool fence regulations can void your homeowner’s insurance policy if an accident occurs. This leaves you financially and legally vulnerable. No pool is worth that level of risk.

Do your due diligence upfront by checking with your local zoning office before installation. Complying with regulations and obtaining proper permits might take more time and money initially, but it’s a small price to pay for the peace of mind and security that comes with doing things the right way. Don’t let ignorance or avoidance put your family’s safety and financial future in jeopardy. Do it right the first time.

Mistake #3: Having a Fence That’s Too Short

A fence that doesn’t meet the minimum height requirements poses a serious safety risk for families with backyard swimming pools. Children are naturally curious climbers, and a short pool fence makes it dangerously easy for a child to hoist themselves over the barrier and gain unsupervised access to the water.

In New Zealand, the Building Act 2004 mandates a minimum fence height of 1.2 meters around residential swimming pools. This standard is the outcome of detailed research on child safety and the efficacy of fencing.

Whilst a 1.2 metre fence may seem sufficient to deter children, it’s critical to bear in mind that kids acquire climbing abilities at an incredibly young age. A determined child could quite easily scale a 0.9 metre fence and even surmount shorter barriers.

Installing a fence shorter than the minimum height requirement puts a child’s safety at serious risk. Opting for a fence that meets or exceeds the minimum height standard is a crucial safety precaution for any home pool. The few extra centimeters of height create a more effective barrier that better prevents kids from climbing over.

While the prospect of installing a taller fence may seem inconvenient or expensive, it’s a small price to pay for significantly improving swimming pool safety. Don’t let a desire for aesthetic appeal or saving money result in cutting corners on fence height. Protect your family by double checking the legal requirements and always meeting the minimum height standards. That extra height could end up saving a child’s life.

Mistake #4: Having a Weak Gate

A weak or flimsy gate is a glaring vulnerability in your pool perimeter. Flimsy metal or plastic gates can be pushed open by children or blown open by wind, leaving the pool area dangerously accessible. Choose a sturdy gate made of robust materials like metal or heavy-duty wood that matches the strength of your fence.

Look for self-closing and self-latching mechanisms on your gate. Self-closing mechanisms ensure the gate automatically swings shut after being opened to prevent it from being left ajar. Self-latching mechanisms lock the gate securely whenever it closes. Investing in a gate with these features adds an important layer of protection.

Also, consider installing a gate latch or lock that is out of reach for small children. A locking feature placed 1.2-1.5 meters high allows adults to easily open and close the gate while keeping it securely closed against curious kids.

Robust gate materials, self-closing hinges, self-latching locks, and out-of-reach latches work together to create a formidable barrier between kids and the pool. Don’t underestimate the importance of a sturdy gate – it plays a critical role in keeping your loved ones safe. Investing in a high-quality gate might seem like an extra expense, but it’s a small price to pay for peace of mind knowing your pool is truly secured.

Mistake #5: Leaving Dangerous Gaps

Even small gaps at the bottom of the fence, between pales, or around structures can spell potential hazards. New Zealand Building Code stipulates the maximum gap between slats should not allow a 100mm sphere to pass through and similarly, the space underneath the fence should not exceed 100mm. These measures are put in place to prevent access by young children.

Gaps pose multiple safety risks:

• Children can squeeze through surprisingly small openings, gaining unsupervised access to the pool area. This leaves them susceptible to accidental drowning.

• Pets may also be able to squeeze through gaps and gain unsupervised pool access.

• Wind can blow open gaps, leaving the pool fence ineffective.

• Leaves, debris and weather damage over time can warp and expand small gaps into larger openings.

Regular inspection and maintenance are critical to maintaining a watertight barrier around your pool. Homeowners should check for any new gaps that appear due to damage or warping. Pay particular attention to potential problem areas near structures where the fence connects. Removable panels can help close off gaps near buildings.

Vigilance in eliminating gaps as they appear is essential. Even spaces that seem too small for a child to fit through can become a doorway to disaster. A secure pool fence has no gaps exceeding 10 cm, keeping loved ones safely on the other side.

Mistake #5: Watch the Ground Clearance

The space between the bottom of your pool fence and the ground represents a critical safety zone. Even gaps of just a few centimeters can provide enough room for a small child to wiggle underneath and gain unsupervised access to the pool area. This poses a major drowning risk.

Most jurisdictions regulate the maximum allowable gap under pool fences, generally setting the limit at 10 centimeters. However, for maximum safety, aim to reduce ground clearance to 5 centimeters or less if possible. This severely restricts the space available for a child to slide under the fence.

If you have existing gaps that exceed the safe limit, take steps to remedy the issue. Installing gravel, pavers, or poured concrete along the fence perimeter can reduce ground clearance. For a quick DIY fix, secure chicken wire or lattice along the base of the fence to obstruct large gaps.

Be vigilant in monitoring ground clearance as normal settling can increase gaps over time. Compact any eroded or loose areas under the fence. With proper diligence, you can eliminate this significant security vulnerability in your pool barrier. Don’t let improper ground clearance negate the protection of an otherwise secure fence.

Mistake #7: Insecure Installation

A pool fence that is not firmly anchored in place is an accident waiting to happen. Children can easily push over or squeeze through a fence that is not sturdy and secure. To avoid this dangerous mistake, it is essential to follow proper installation techniques:

• Dig holes and sink fence posts at least 45 centimeters below ground. This provides stability so the fence won’t sway or tip over if pressure is applied. Shallow holes lead to posts working loose over time, creating opportunities for gaps and weaknesses.
• Avoid relying solely on panel connectors. While connectors join fencing sections together, they can unexpectedly pop open if enough force is applied. Additional anchoring is needed to keep panels firmly in place. Consider using concrete or rebar for extra strength.
• For chain link fences, use metal posts set in concrete. The concrete adds important weight bearing support, while metal posts won’t rot or crack like wood. Space posts no more than 3 meters apart for optimal stability.
• Use sturdy gate latches that self-close and lock. Invest in heavy-duty latches rather than flimsy ones that can break under stress. Self-closure ensures the gate won’t be accidentally left open after use. Locking mechanisms keep children from opening the gate and accessing the pool unsupervised.

Proper installation techniques reinforce your pool fence as an enduring barrier against accidents. Don’t cut corners – a secure fence needs strong foundations and robust materials to provide true safety for your family.

Conclusion

Owning a pool comes with the joy of summer fun and the immense responsibility of protecting loved ones from accidental drowning. As we’ve explored, something as innocuous as a small gap or a flimsy latch can make the difference between safety and tragedy.

By reviewing local regulations, choosing durable materials, eliminating hazardous gaps, securing gates, and properly installing your pool fence, you can avoid the most common mistakes that put children at risk. While an extra expense upfront, adhering to proper height requirements and opting for quality build materials will pay dividends in safety and peace of mind for years to come.

Remember, being vigilant about pool fence safety isn’t just a recommendation – it’s a responsibility you take on by welcoming a pool into your family’s backyard. Avoid being lulled into a false sense of security by thinking “it won’t happen to me.” Take proactive steps to sidestep these 7 critical mistakes, and give your loved ones the protection they deserve. With smart planning and prevention, you can enjoy your pool knowing danger has been effectively shut out.

Get a Quote from a Local Installer Today

Investing in a pool fence is a significant commitment that necessitates correct installation and strict adherence to safety regulations. You shouldn’t leave anything to chance—obtain a cost-free inspection and quotation from Real Fencing, our accomplished local installers, today.

By choosing us, we can offer:

• An assessment of your property with a proposal of suitable fence materials and features
• Assurance of compliance with all local regulations and permitting requirements
• A comprehensive handling of the installation process, from the initial consultation to the final inspection
• Ongoing fence maintenance and repairs when necessary

By seeking professional help, you can be certain your fence provides maximum protection for your family. Tranquility comes from knowing that our team maintains a high priority on both safety and visual allure.

Don’t postpone until it’s too late— procure a quote today. You can then breathe easy and relish your pool, confident that your fence offers you the security you require. Secure your pool with Real Fencing, the trusted, top-rated pool fence contractor in New Zealand.

FAQ’s

What is the recommended height for a pool fence?

In New Zealand, the Building Act 2004 requires residential pools to be surrounded by a fence at least 1.2 meters high. Specifics may vary, so always check with your council or consult the New Zealand Building Code.

What type of gate should I choose for my pool fence?

Choosing a self-closing, self-latching gate with a locking device that’s beyond the reach of young children is paramount. This ensures that the gate cannot be left open or unlocked, reducing exposure to drowning hazards.

How much gap should there be between the slats of my pool fence?

The New Zealand Building Code mandates that any gap in a pool fence should not allow a 100mm sphere to pass through, preventing young children from squeezing through.

What should I do if there are gaps under my pool fence?

Under New Zealand legislation, a gap under the pool fence must not exceed 100mm. Consider installing remedies such as garden edging, pavers, or a concrete runner if your fence doesn’t meet this standard.

How often should I inspect my pool fence?

Check your pool fence regularly for wear and tear, loose hardware, or gaps. Immediate attention must be given to any issues to ensure maximal safety.

Can I install a pool fence myself?

Whilst DIY installation is possible, the importance of correct and secure installation cannot be overstated. If unsure, seek out a professional to ensure safety covenants are not only met, but exceeded.

What are some additional pool safety measures I can take?

In addition to a robust and compliant fence, pool safety covers, alarms, CPR training, and something as simple as constant adult supervision can create vital layers of protection.