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Installing Pool Fencing
Installing pool fencing in PA and Pool Fence Laws
It’s not a surprise that an in-ground pool-fence is a non-negotiable legal requirement enforced by Pennsylvania government. Pool fence laws called BOCA Pool Code are enforced for in-ground pools.
So, if you are unsure and wondering if you need a pool fence, the answer is yes. The only exception to the Pennsylvania pool fence law is if you have an above-ground pool with sides taller than 4 feet.
The Pennsylvania pool fence law is in place for good reason. Not only is it created to keep your family and friends safe, but also to make sure animals stay safe, too.
Here are a few of the low-maintenance, high-style fencing options that are sure to pass the Pennsylvania pool fence laws:
- Aluminum Pool Fence– Maintenance free style and modern, luxury living aluminum fencing is the upscale and beautiful way to protect your pool area.
- Vinyl Pool Fence– The classic white picket fence makes for a great backyard protector too! This requires slightly more maintenance than aluminum but is still a minimal time investment.
- Privacy Pool Fence– Whether it means vinyl, wood, or a hybrid of both materials, a privacy fence is a standard pool fence option.
What are the steps to putting in a fence around your pool?
First, locate your property lines
- Check your county Recorder of Deeds to see if it has a survey on file for your property.
- If your government offices don’t have a survey, you will need to pay to have one done to make sure you are placing the fence on your property – not your neighbor’s!
Second, research local codes
- Do some online searching to find codes relevant to your residential property.
- Rules you are looking for include but are not limited to how far back your fence must be from the property line, and whether or not there’s a maximum height allowed.
- Don’t forget to check with your HOA!
- Who will own the fence? In Pennsylvania, a fence on the property line is shared between neighbors in PA in terms of cost of installation and maintenance or repair. It may mean you need to seek your neighbors’ approval of the type of fence you are installing – but it could also mean you can split the cost!
Third, get the proper permits
- Once you know the local building code, you will know if you need to get a permit to build a fence. A permit is usually required. We can help with that!
Pool fence requirements in Pennsylvania
Pool fences typically have the strictest requirements since they’re needed for safety. Here are a few requirements for Pennsylvania as a whole, although local laws usually go more in depth.
- Any body of water more than 24-inches deep is considered a pool and must meet required safety standards.
- All pools must be fenced on all sides with a structure at least 48-inches high.
- For above ground pools: The sides of the pool, if 48 inches, may be considered the fence. A removable or locking ladder is required, and it must be removed or locked when the pool is not in use.
- For in-ground pools: All fence gates must be self-closing and latching. A house may be used as the fourth side of the fence, but all doors leading to the pool area must have an audible warning device if no other gate or door is between the house and the pool. A power safety cover may also be used.
When Is the Best Time to Install a Pool Fence?
Do you install a fence first? Do you install the fence after the pool is done? The order of events in which you install your pool and its fence is particularly important if you’re not looking to spend unnecessary money during the build.
In most cases it makes the most sense to install the pool BEFORE installing the pool fence. This will make it easier for the pool construction team to build your pool without worrying about the fence and it being in the way! So, schedule your fence installation after the pool is complete. Plan ahead though! Please check with our lead times and schedule ahead.
General Fence Maintenance
General Fence Maintenance
While regular General Fence Maintenance maintenance won’t totally eliminate the need for repairs in the future, it’ll help to preserve the fence and maintain its longevity.
- Inspect your fence regularly.
- Paint or stain your fence as needed to protect it from the elements.
- Clean regularly with products and methods recommended by manufacturers.
- Be careful when using mowers and string trimmers around fences and posts.
- Avoid letting mulch or soil pile up against the bottom of fence posts and panels.
- Keep hinges, latches and any moving parts well lubricated with grease or oil.
- Mend a fence quickly if only a small portion is damaged. This will protect the structural integrity of the rest of the fence.
While every property owner has different methods of caring for fence structures, below are a few examples of areas you may want to focus on once you start your spring clean-up process.
1. Remove hanging tree limbs. Parts of trees may have broken under the weight of snow and ice and must be cared for before they fall and cause damage to the fence. This is more applicable for vinyl fencing, but damage can still occur to ornamental fencing depending on any weak spots present and the overall weight being placed on the structure. Be on the look out for any trees within falling distance of the fence and trim back any branches that may cause an issue in the future.
2. Prune surrounding greenery. Any shrubs or plants next to the fence should be groomed and trimmed to allow space for the greenery to grow correctly. The rails should also be cleared of any debris such as acorns, leaves, shells, and twigs as these can cause issues if not removed.
3. Conduct a thorough inspection. Be sure to physically survey the fence regardless of material one to two times a year to check for any potential problems such as areas of weakness, missing caps, broken or bent hardware, signs of rust, and chips, nicks, or scratches. Catching issues early will allow you to resolve them before your fence is damaged further, and the repair cost increases.
4. Wash and Condition. Your fence should be washed one to two times a year, along with applying any necessary conditioning treatments. A gentle cleanser with a soft cloth can be used to remove dust, bugs, and debris from the fence. For more stubborn spots, a soft brush may work more efficiently. A magic eraser can be useful for vinyl fences. Ornamental fences will need a gel-type car wash wax applied after cleaning to provide an added layer of protection against the sun’s UV rays and prevent fading.
5. Rust Maintenance. If working with an ornamental or metal fencing, watch for any rust spots and address any as soon as you find them to avoid any additional damage. Rust spots are an indicator that the bare metal layer of the fence has been exposed to air and moisture. The rust spots can usually be sanded off with sandpaper and need to be wiped down before being painted over.
6. Conduct repairs and schedule professional help. Identify broken pieces and damaged hardware on the fence. Any replacement pieces can be ordered, or compatible hardware can be utilized. Evaluating the situation and being proactive can help get your fence in good condition for the warmer months and minimize stress. Repair issues on your own, order replacement pieces so extras are on hand, and schedule any necessary help with Absolute Fencing.
Mildew Removal
The climates and weather conditions vary across the country, and mildew can be an issue for vinyl fencing. Initially, it will appear as black spots and can be found in areas where rain doesn’t fall. There are many different solutions, both manufactured and homemade, that can be used to minimize the presence of mildew. It’s encouraged to wear gloves and apply the solution you’ve selected carefully as some chemicals are hazardous to the environment and your skin.
Here are a few examples of homemade solutions:
1/3 cup detergent such as Tide
2/3 cup Trisodium Phosphate such as Soilax
1 quart 5% Sodium Hypochlorite such as Clorox
3 quarts water
or for something using fewer chemicals:
1/2 to 1 cup white vinegar
1 to 2 gallons of water
Now Hiring!
Absolute Fencing is now hiring for the upcoming season. Looking for dedicated, hard working individuals who are self motivated.
Full and part-time positions available!
Positions available :
- Crew leader ( experience a must )
- Laborers ( no experience needed )
- Lead installers( experience a must )
- Sub Contractors
Contact Us for more details and to apply!
