Summertime is known for many things! From barbecuing to days out on the lake, you probably have your own traditions that you're looking forward to this season.
If you like swimming, you might have a pool of your own or you're thinking about installing one. You might be wondering, what is the best pool fence? Well, you've come to the right place. Our Northland Fence team is happy to share the information we have about the best pool fencing options out there. With our 15+ years of experience, founded right here in Minnesota, we're prepared to answer any questions you have so you can get to the fence of your dreams.
The purpose of having a pool fence isn't just to keep the neighborhood kids from going for a night dip when you're asleep. No, the main purpose behind pool fencing is to keep out critters and small kids who can't swim so they don't wander in by accident.
The International Council Code, an organization dedicated to safety standards for buildings, construction, and other property matters, recommends any pool fencing be at least 2 feet tall. Additionally, fences should not have gaps between panels or the ground that are big enough for anyone to squeeze through, and the gate should be self-latching and have its opening mechanism at least 54 inches above the ground. These regulations all work to help keep young kids out of pools when they’re not supposed to be there. According to the CDC, fatal drownings are the leading cause of death for kids ages 1-4.
While there are state-wide regulations regarding public pools, there aren’t any for private pools. Each individual providence will have its own rules and regulations for pools, and it’s important to know what those are before you decide to put one up in your backyard.
Here are some examples of laws regarding pools and fencing throughout Minnesota.
Many cities and counties require permits just to have the pool put up in your yard, so make sure you check before you start installing one on your own. If you want to learn more about the city codes and regulations throughout the state, you can check out our city code guide on our website.
When it comes to installing a fence on your own, there are a few things you need to keep in mind: materials needed, tools needed, and the combined cost and time for everything. If you’re going to put in the effort to install a fence yourself, you want something that looks nice and is going to last so that your time and energy are worth it.
Many cities throughout Minnesota already have specific material regulations for installing a fence around your property. The same goes for pool-specific fencing, and in most cases is even more strict.
Let’s look back at the three examples we gave earlier.
In most cases, vinyl fencing will satisfy any regulatory requirements. You can’t just slap up chicken wire on some stakes and call it a day. It’s important to know the laws regarding your specific city before you start planning out what kind of fencing you can buy.
There are many factors that should go into picking what kind of fencing you want in your yard, whether for a pool or just for some extra security. Materials each have their own strengths and weaknesses as well as price points. Even from fence to fence, the price of materials can vary by height and style.
Let’s look at some common options for pool fencing, what their strengths are, and what some of the average pricing for them is.
Vinyl fencing is a very strong contender for pool fencing as it can handle the water well, it offers privacy as many cities regulate, and it's a very durable material. While it is one of the most expensive materials for fencing, it’s also the longest-lasting. With proper upkeep, it can last you for many years, making the initial investment very worthwhile.
Ornamental steel fencing offers a very aesthetically pleasing choice for enclosing your residential pool. It’s a midpoint price when it comes to fencing, and with proper care, it can stand up well to any element. Not every city allows this type of fencing for pools, and it’s important to make sure the gaps in the fence are within the city’s standards, as well.
Glass fencing can be a very popular choice for those wanting a less intrusive look for their yard. Glass fences are made to withstand the elements and still be sturdy. Glass fencing will fit most requirements for pool fencing, being climb resistant, sturdy, and durable. They won’t work out for cities that require fences that obscure line of sight, however. Pricing-wise, glass fences tend to be on the mid to higher end of the pricing range.
Chain link fences are one of the most affordable options for fencing, while still providing security for your yard. When it comes to pool fencing, however, there are a few things you need to keep in mind. Some cities not only require an obstruction of view but also that the fences be resistant to being climbed. Chain link fences will not meet the requirements for either of those regulations if your city has them. With proper vinyl coating on your chain link fence, they can stand up well to the elements and are still a sturdy fence option that can last for several years with proper care.
The cost of a fence has many variables in it which can make it hard to have an accurate average. Not only can prices fluctuate as material costs do, but the time of year, obstacles in the yard, and other factors can also influence the final price of a fence.
Luckily, you can get a free quote from our team here at Northland Fence right here on our website. We’re entirely upfront about costs and will never tack on sudden fees at the end.
When installing a fence on your own, there are many factors that are often overlooked. If you don’t already have the tools required to properly install a fence, that will add to your total cost. The person installing the fence is always responsible for contacting utility companies before installing it to make sure they don’t hit any pipes or lines underground. Finally, not only will you devote your time to gathering the tools, materials, and contacting the utility company, but you will also be investing your time in the installation process.
Choosing a company like Northland Fence means getting your time back and saving money in the long run. You won’t have to worry about any costly mistakes occurring with our expert team on the job. Our connections in the industry also mean that we can find materials at a lower cost than the average consumer, saving you money while not cutting back on quality. These savings will directly impact your total bill.
All of our employees are entirely in-house and paid year-round. We treat them like family, just like we do our customers so that you get the best installation possible. All of our installations are backed by both a labor and material warranty. We know that we will give you the fence of your dreams, and we want to make sure it stands the test of time. We trust our work so much that we will cover labor and materials within the first 10 years of installation. Our material warranties even extend beyond that time frame.
Vinyl fence fits the pool fencing requirements for most cities while being incredibly durable, lasting for years.
Chain link fencing is generally the most affordable fencing option, but it doesn’t always meet city codes regarding pool fencing. You should check with your city’s specific regulations before deciding on fencing material.
A good pool fence should be sturdy, climb-resistant, and stand up well against the elements. Fencing like vinyl fits all of these categories.
We can give you the yard and fence of your dreams. From tips on upkeep to ensuring you get the best deal on the fencing you want, Northland Fence is here to help. If you have any questions about our pricing, fence materials, or anything else - don’t hesitate to give us a call today at 763-316-4881.
Whether you’re looking for a beautiful, maintenance-free vinyl privacy fence, a sturdy chain link fence, or a ornamental fence, we’re ready to show you why we’re Minnesota’s highest and best rated fence company.
Use this form to request a free estimate or call us at 763-325-8211.
6390 McKinley St NW, Suite 150
Ramsey, MN 55303
763-496-4813
Monday: 9 AM–5 PM
Tuesday: 9 AM–5 PM
Wednesday: 9 AM–5 PM
Thursday: 9 AM–5 PM
Friday: 9 AM–5 PM
Saturday: Closed
Sunday: Closed