If you’re planning on installing a glass fence around your pool, an important decision you’ll have to make is whether you want to get framed or frameless fencing.
Both have their pros and cons, so having a solid understanding of both fencing types will help you determine which is best for you and your needs.
Frameless Glass Fencing
As the name suggests, frameless glass pool fencing is composed of sheets of glass held in place at the bottom rather than by an entire frame around the panel. This type of fencing must be made from safety glass, so it is highly strong and durable, and significantly less likely to cause injury in the rare event of breakage.
Frameless glass pool fencing is becoming more and more popular in Australia. As it gives the illusion that there is no fence at all, many people choose frameless fencing as it is more aesthetic and does not obstruct the view of their outdoor area. Frameless glass fencing also allows for greater visibility of the pool, so it is easier to supervise children and pets.
The main drawback of frameless glass fencing, however, is that it is generally more expensive than framed options. This is because the glass panels are secured to the ground either with cement or highly-durable stainless steel spigots, which incurs greater labour, equipment, and material costs.
In addition, the glass panels in frameless fences need to be either toughened or laminated safety glass. So glazing costs are likely to be higher too.
Framed Glass Fencing
Most types of framed glass pool fences these days are semi-framed. This means that rather than the entire panel being framed, there is framing only in the space that connects two glass panels together, with the top and bottom of the glass being left clear.
This type of pool fencing provides many of the same benefits of frameless fencing. There is slightly more view obstruction, however, and potentially more maintenance requirements.
One of the main advantages of semi-framed glass fencing is that it is notably cheaper than frameless fencing. Semi-framed pool fences can be up to 30% cheaper than frameless pool fencing, making it the ideal choice for lower budgets.
Both types of pool fencing are very durable and relatively low-maintenance. Determining which is best for you will ultimately come down to your personal preference and budget.
For more information, call Magic Glass. We will be able to find the perfect glass fencing for your pool, ensuring all Australian Pool Safety Standards are met.
Glass pool fences are a popular option for homeowners who want to create a luxurious and spacious outdoor area around their pool. They offer an unobstructed view of the backyard and keep children and pets safe from the water.
There are, however, many regulations that your pool fence must comply with in order to ensure absolute safety.
Glass Pool Fencing Regulations
When it comes to your glass fencing specifically, you must ensure your fence satisfies the following requirements.
- Must be at least 1200 mm tall all the way around (measured from the outside of the pool). If a boundary fence forms part of the pool fencing, it must be at least 1800 mm tall.
- The gap between the bottom of the fence and the ground cannot be larger than 100 mm.
- Vertical rails on the pool fence and gate cannot be more than 100 mm apart.
- If using mesh pool fencing, holes in the fence cannot have a diameter larger than 13 mm.
- The pool fence should be well-maintained and in functional order.
- Pool fencing cannot be climbable. Any potential handholds or footholds cannot be within 900 mm of the top of the fence in any direction.
Glass Pool Gate Regulations
The following regulations regarding pool gates must also be satisfied.
- All pool gates must be self-closing and able to latch by themselves.
- Pool gate latches must be in good condition and working order.
- The gate must open outwards, away from the pool.
- For a frameless glass pool fence, the latch must be opened from the other side (poolside of the gate).
- The gap between the glass gate and anything else must be less than 10 mm.
If you’re wanting to install glass fencing around your pool, contact Magic Glass today. We can manufacture and install custom glass fencing to suit your safety and aesthetic requirements.
All Magic Glass pool fences are manufactured and installed in compliance with NSW regulations, so you can rest assured knowing that your pool fence and gate is as safe as possible.
