Should You Fence Your Pool?

Fencing your pool is something that a lot of people are doing these days, primarily for safety. However, it remains somewhat out of the norm, particularly in America. Many people go to pool builders, but they don’t always discuss this issue, and they should. 

Fortunately, this post is here to help. We run through some of the pros and cons of whether you should fence your pool.

Pro: Legal Compliance

Sometimes, fencing a pool is a legal requirement. You may have to do it if you want permission to install one in the first place. As such, it’s non-negotiable. 

Taking it down after the pool installation may also create legal and insurance issues. Removing it may not be allowed in specific areas. 

Con: Cost

Then, of course, there’s the cost. A luxury pool builder might include it in their pricing, but it could add to the expense. 

Of course, a lot of people want cheap pools because of the immediate impact it can have on home valuations. However, adding a fence might increase the expense. 

Pro: Privacy Boost

The privacy-boosting effects of pool fencing are another benefit. It makes it harder for neighbors to peer in and see what you’re doing. 

Pool fences can be quite tall these days, sometimes over six feet. These are handy in exposed areas and prevent prying eyes, especially people trying to take photos. 

Con: Limited Access

Then again, putting up a big fence could limit access. These might make it more challenging to access the pool when you want. 

For example, you might want to transition seamlessly from your lawn to the pool and back again. However, you can’t do this when you have a big, great wall in the way. 

Pro: Peace Of Mind

With that said, building a fence around your pool can give you peace of mind, especially if you have pets or kids. A physical barrier prevents them from wandering where they shouldn’t and getting into trouble in the water. 

Unfortunately, pools can be risky for young children, which is why fences are essential for families. These reduce the likelihood of disaster significantly. 

Con: Space Constraints

Space constraints are another downside of pool fences. You might want to install one, but you can’t because you don’t have room around your pool. 

Space constraints in yards can be a significant issue for smaller properties. You may struggle to find space for it to go, or it could impede on other elements of your outdoor space, like the lawn or pool. 

Pro: Deters Animals

Another pro is that pool fences can deter animals. Sometimes, critters may want to drink from your pool and can sometimes fall in. But if you build a fence, it could deter them substantially, preventing any disasters in the middle of the night, which can be common with bears, deer, and raccoons (or any other large animal in your area that can’t swim that well). 

So there you have it: some of the reasons why you should and shouldn’t fence a new pool. Ultimately, you’ll need to decide what works best for you while following the law.