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You need a pool fence because it’s required by law. Australia has strict pool fencing regulations to help prevent accidental drownings, especially in the case of children.
According to the World Health Organization, drowning is the leading cause of accidental death in children ages one to three. Nineteen children aged four and under drowned in private swimming pools in Australia between 2002 and 2017. The most common way children gained access to a pool was through a faulty fence or gate.
If that’s not enough to convince you to get a fence, you could also face steep fines up to $5,500 for not having a fence or not meeting state fencing standards.
Australian pool fence regulations vary by state and are updated regularly. Generally, the requirements aim to ensure children cannot climb a fence, squeeze through gaps in a fence, knock a fence over or unlatch a gate. Keep in mind, regulations apply whether or not there are children in your household.
The following basic rules apply for pool fencing:
These requirements cover all pools deeper than 30cm including in-ground pools, above-ground pools, spas and inflatable pools.
If you have not yet built your pool, you should check regulations in advance to help save time and money. A licenced builder can help make sure your fence meets all local requirements. If you need help financing your pool, there are many loans available.
Prices typically range from $90 to $600 per panel or linear metre. The overall cost of your fence depends on the size of your property, the material you are going to use and the design. For example, a 20-metre aluminium fence might cost $2,000, while a frameless glass fence of the same size could cost more than $10,000. There may be additional costs for installation and added components, such as spigots.
The most popular pool fencing materials are metal and glass.
Metal fences are usually made from aluminium, steel or iron. Aluminium fences are generally more affordable and can cost as little as $90 per linear metre, while wrought iron fences can cost $450 to $600 per linear metre.
Metal fences are durable, can be painted any colour and come in a wide variety of designs. They are often easier to install than glass fences and require less maintenance.
Glass fencing has become extremely popular in recent years as it allows you to have clear views of your pool for supervision, as well as aesthetically. Glass fencing is usually more expensive than metal and is available in framed, frameless, semi-frameless or in-ground styles. Frameless glass is more expensive at $275 to $600 per linear metre. Semi-frameless glass is typically $200 to $275 per panel.
Glass panels are held up by posts and spigots, or pegs, that can cost as much as the actual glass panels. Glass panels need to be cleaned regularly.
Timber fencing can be cost effective and comes in a wide variety of styles. However, timber needs to be treated and regularly maintained to keep it safe from the elements and compliant with regulations. A typical pine slat fence ranges from $200 to $350 per linear metre.
If you have an above ground pool or are using an inflatable pool deeper than 30cm, you may also be able to use temporary fencing that can be dismantled when the pool is not set up. Temporary fencing must meet the same standards as regular pool fencing.
From finding the right niche to marketing your business, here is a comprehensive guide on how to build a profitable fencing business.
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