As one of the top sports in the U.S., swimming is a great way to get exercise and 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
One of the most important benefits of pool fences is the added safety they provide. Drowning is the leading cause of accidental death among young children, and having a pool fence in place can greatly reduce the risk of drowning. The fence acts as a barrier, preventing children and pets from getting near the pool when they’re not under supervision.
When choosing the perfect fence for your Sarasota, Florida swimming pool, besides pool safety, you will want to determine your second objective, whether it be for added privacy or to add a decorative border to your property. Some other factors to consider is cost, style, level of security, and more. Let’s explore some of these main considerations that will help you decide what you need.
We Recommend 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 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 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.
Estimate Your Fence Costs
The cost of installing a pool fence will depend on several factors, including the actual height and length of your pool area, the fence material you choose, and the amount of labor required to install your fence. You can get an instant quote for multiple types of fencing materials to determine which ones you can rule out on our website.
Florida Pool 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, the pros at H&Y Fence are well-versed in pool codes and regulations in Florida, so you don’t have to memorize them. That being said, here are the basics, so you know what to expect.
If you already have a fence around your property, 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.
- Spacing between vertical slats shall not exceed 1.75 inches
- 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.
- 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 already have a fence that borders your property. 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.
Sarasota’s Popular Swimming Pool Fence Options
In addition to their safety benefits, pool fences also have aesthetic benefits. They can be designed to match the style of the home and the surrounding landscape and can even be used to create a more private and intimate pool area. There are many different styles and materials to choose from, so it is easy to find a fence that complements the home’s existing design.
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 is one of the most versatile and popular options for pool fencing. Vinyl material is resistant to moisture and can be built in full privacy designs or with a more open look. It’s almost completely weatherproof, requires virtually no maintenance, and looks brand new even after decades of use. Being more affordable than aluminum in many cases, vinyl fencing is another great option for pool fencing in Florida.
Aluminum Pool Fence
Aluminum fences have an elegant, upscale look and are durable, weather-resistant, and easy to secure with matching gates. It’s no wonder they are another popular choice in the Sarasota, FL area! Aluminum fences are available in various colors and designs and are built with open visibility. An aluminum fence’s stylish aesthetic and low-maintenance material always make this fence a top choice for a Florida pool fence.
Chain Link Fence Options
Chain link pool fences are a great choice for many homeowners due to their durability, affordability, and versatility. This sturdy, economical option 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.
Wood Pool Fences
A wood fence may not be as long-lasting and durable as other fence material options, but it does look great if well-maintained. Pressure-treated pine is more susceptible to rot, warping, and fading and does needs a lot of TLC. We recommend that you have the natural wood sealed and stained every couple of years to keep it protected and extend the life of your wood fence.
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 provide additional guidance based on our experiences in the Sarasota, FL area.
H&Y Fence Can Make Sure Your Pool is Safe!
When it’s time to install a new pool fence in the Sarasota, FL area, H&Y Fence can help! We have several options that can suit any budget and specific requirements 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 (941) 379-3444 or contact us online. We’re here to help with all your fencing questions!
