Pool fencing is a double-edged sword. You need to have it for safety reasons but you don't want it to affect the overall ambiance of your backyard retreat. Concerning the former, local regulations may vary as well in order to ensure safety.

When it comes to aesthetics, your pool probably has its own character - perhaps even a theme. Luckily, you can choose an attractive pool fencing option that stays within that style while still promoting safety.

Aluminum Pool Fencing

Probably the most common fencing used for pools is made out of aluminum. These fences consist of metal rails spaced at regular intervals around the pool area. The contractors install fencing panels consisting of top and bottom rails and simple pickets. The square or tubular pickets are straight to prevent handholds and spaced under four inches apart.

Aluminum pool fencing can be rather utilitarian-looking. However, you do have a range of colors to choose from, including black, white, copper, and silver. The simple fence can complement any style of pool, especially traditional and transitional. You can also augment the beauty of the fence with foundation landscaping. Just ensure that the plants don't serve as a stepping stone for climbing the fence.

Wrought Iron Pool Fencing

Wrought iron fencing is a more upscale version of aluminum pool fencing. The basics are the same in that the fence consists of regular posts with metal picketed panels spanning between. Likewise, you have similar coloration options as with aluminum. However, the main difference is the style options available with wrought iron.

While wrought iron can present the same profile, you can customize options such as the top rail. You could choose a double rail with circles, squares, or wavy lines between. You could also choose sharp finials instead of a smooth top rail, which would be a good deterrent to climbing. The top rails can also be curved instead of straight, which also makes clambering over difficult.

Wrought iron fences are famous for their ornamentation. You don't want to choose ironwork that provides footholds and handholds. However, some ornamentation is fine.

Glass Pool Fencing

Metal fences such as the ones described above can complement a modern-style pool as long as you choose a streamlined style. However, glass presents a very attractive profile that lets your pool be the center of attention. Even more streamlined in appearance than metal, glass fencing is a beautiful complement for any modern or contemporary pool.

With glass pool fencing, the contractors start with heavy-duty tempered glass. They can use a metal framework to hold the glass panels together. The framework consists of posts and both top and bottom rails. However, you could choose a frameless style which features sturdy brackets sunk into the decking and similar brackets holding the panels together.

Most glass fencing features clear glass. However, you can also choose frosted or colored glass to add some opacity.

Wood Pool Fencing

Wood pool fencing is probably the other classic besides aluminum. You often see privacy fencing, which is usually around six feet tall, around swimming pool areas. However, you have other style options as well. For instance, you could recreate the simple aluminum fence with wood or have a picket fence installed, as long as it's tall enough. A series of tall lattice screens would be attractive.

Because wood is a classic, it complements any pool style. Wood is a good material choice, though, if you have a tropical-style pool. A caveat to wood fencing, especially if it's near the water, is you'll need to have the wood waterproofed. You'll also need to be diligent in checking for warpage from the moisture. You could opt for a wood-look vinyl fence, too.

Make your pool area safe with a fence that complements the overall style of your backyard retreat. For more information or assistance, let Gulf Coast Fence Co help. We can provide the fencing you need.