Adding a swimming pool to your backyard or outdoor entertainment area is a wonderful way to enjoy Australia’s hot and sunny climate. However, local laws have made it mandatory to install a safety fence around all private swimming pools and home spas that contain more than 300mm or more of water.
With this in mind, homeowners are looking for creative ways to secure their pools without being limited to traditional or mundane fencing solutions. That’s why the glass pool fencing Albury locals love so much has become a popular go-to option. What are glass pool fences, and how will they benefit your outdoor space? Keep reading as we answer these questions.
What is Glass Pool Fencing?
As the name implies, glass pool fencing refers to a fence made of glass as opposed to traditional materials such as wire or timber. These glass barriers are usually made from 10-12mm thick toughened (tempered) safety glass, which has been designed to provide transparent and unobstructed views into the area they’re surrounding.
These glass fences are made in accordance with stringent Australian safety standards as listed in AS1926.1. This means that these fences create a non-climbable, durable, weather-resistant barrier, which is ideal for patios, pools, or balconies. Opting for quality glass fence installation adds a resort-style feel to the intended area.
Many Positives to Opting for Glass
When you’re getting ready to add the mandated fence around your pool, chances are that glass may not be your first material choice. This is because glass can be dangerous and may even create the impression that it’s weak or flimsy to withstand outdoor Australian weather conditions. Our team of experts has compiled a list of the top reasons why glass is more durable than you may think.
1. Glass Creates an Unobstructed View
If you’re a pool owner who also has children and pets, then you’ll more than likely be looking for a fencing solution that doesn’t obstruct your view. This is where glass has the best advantage because glass panels are clear and create a transparent barrier.
Opting for a glass pool fence ensures that you can always keep an eye on the pool. This, in turn, gives you peace of mind that you aren’t missing an accident that’s happening behind any visual obstructions, such as metal or wooden panels or posts.
2. Highly Resistant to Corrosion
No matter what you’re installing outside, you always have to give some thought to how the harsh Aussie climate is going to affect it. When it comes to fencing, you have to keep in mind that timber rots and metal or wire can corrode or rust.
The good news here is that tempered glass panels aren’t affected by aspects such as moisture, salt in the air, or even harsh UV rays. Whether you live in a coastal or humid area, opting for glass ensures that your fence maintains its initial structural integrity, no matter how old it gets.
3. Compliant with Australian Regulations
As we’ve already highlighted, local Australian regulations dictate that all pools and spa areas must meet strict safety regulations. This can leave you wondering which material option meets the regulations without compromising your intended décor style.
To meet these requirements, your fence must meet specified heights, allow for gate closures, and have specific panel gaps. Quality glass fences have been designed with these regulations in mind, which means your professionally installed fence will not only be super safe, but will also meet all the legal requirements.
4. Can be Customised for All Pool and Spa Layouts
Another huge reason why glass fencing is a popular option is that it’s versatile enough to be installed around any pool or spa layout. This means that whether you have a kidney-shaped, rectangular, or freeform pool or spa, a series of glass fencing panels can easily be customised to fit the requirements.
As part of the customisable options, you can easily choose between semi-frameless and frameless options to match your outdoor aesthetic. A few additional features to consider include frosted or tinted glass, which can enhance the privacy in the space. Speak to your local installer for a list of features and add-ons that you can pick from.
5. Low Maintenance
Another positive feature to look forward to is that glass fences are extremely easy to maintain and keep clean. Since glass doesn’t absorb moisture or dirt, it means that any marks or dirt can easily be wiped off with a solution of water and mild detergent. Unlike other fencing materials, there’s no need for specialised oiling, painting, or pest control treatments to keep your fence in immaculate condition.
Final Thoughts
Local law requires all pools and spas to be surrounded by a safety barrier. With this in mind, locals are opting for glass pool fencing. Some of the key reasons that make this option well worth considering include customisability and compliance with local pool safety regulations.
Glass fences also provide high resistance to corrosion and weathering. Securing your pool and giving your home a spa-like feeling is as easy as installing a quality glass pool fence sooner rather than later!