Swimming pools offer a refuge for relaxation, but the wrong design can cause them to become an eyesore. Not to mention that a pool can be dangerous with young children around, so you want to make sure your pool fencing ideas are stylish and safe. 

    The purpose of this guide is to outline the best steps you can take to enhance the aesthetics of your pool without removing any safety features. 


    Overview

    As a pool owner, you want your backyard oasis to be safe and aesthetically pleasing. The right pool fence can help you achieve both goals.

    When designing your pool area, consider how a fence can complement your backyard vision. For a modern look, glass or metal fencing maintains visibility while securing the perimeter. To blend into a natural garden landscape, wood or bamboo fencing adds warmth without compromising safety.

    The placement of your fence impacts the overall yard and pool design, so plan your pool design thoughtfully. Curving the fence around flower beds or play areas creates an inviting shape while keeping them enclosed. 

    With the right fencing, you can have peace of mind and backyard beauty when it comes to your pool area. Continue reading to learn more.


    Types of Pool Fencing

    When shopping for pool fencing, you’ll encounter five main materials:

    • Aluminum
    • Steel
    • Vinyl
    • Glass
    • Wood

    Aluminum, steel, and vinyl are the most common and affordable choices. These durable, low-maintenance options come in a variety of colors. Aluminum and steel can rust if not cleaned and sealed. Vinyl resists corrosion.

    Glass pool fencing offers transparency that maintains your pool’s visibility. Frameless glass designs create a sleek, unobstructed view. However, glass fences require diligent cleaning and risk breakage. Installers recommend factory-laminated safety glass that meets codes.

    Rustic wooden fences complement landscaping with an organic, natural feel. Cedar and redwood are rot-resistant, but any wood needs sealing and staining periodically.

    Today’s Homeowner Tips

    For pricing, vinyl and aluminum are often the most budget-friendly. Steel, glass, and wood cost more but provide distinct aesthetics. Work with qualified fencing contractors to obtain quotes for your specific project.


    Pool Fence Styles

    Beyond choosing a base material, you also have options for decorative embellishments and designs to style your pool fence. Some popular choices are wrought iron, cable, and glass panel accents.

    Wrought Iron

    Intricate wrought iron pool fences have an elegant, old-world style. Skilled blacksmiths handcraft custom designs with floral motifs and curlicue flourishes. However, this specialty material comes at a premium.

    For budget-friendly alternatives, iron-looking aluminum provides the decorative look of wrought iron at a lower cost. Pre-formed panels mimic the same patterns in a lightweight, easy-to-install format.

    wrought iron pool fence
    Canva

    Cable Fencing

    Cable fence designs apply horizontal tensioned cables between posts to create a transparent boundary. This open-air look maintains views, sunlight, and breezes while meeting pool barrier requirements.

    Cables can be spaced vertically anywhere from 3-6 inches apart based on your preference and required code. For safety, look for cable fences with a reinforced bottom rail to prevent pool access between cables. Adding top rails gives decorative detail.

    Stainless steel is the strongest cable material, delivering superior resistance to rust, corrosion, and stretching. However, steel cables are one of the more expensive options. Vinyl-coated stainless-steel cables add color while reducing cost. Galvanized steel and aluminum cables sacrifice some strength for affordability.

    Hire a professional to ensure tension cables get installed properly for safety and security. Expect to budget from $25 to $50 per linear foot installed.

    Glass Panel Fencing

    glass fencing around a pool
    Canva

    Framed glass panels create modern, elegant pool fences. Tempered or laminated glass maximizes safety and transparency, while stainless steel or aluminum posts and top rails provide structure.

    Partial etching can give glass panels a frosted look for privacy. For style, glass panels can alternate with open sections. Prices range from $60 to more than $100 per linear foot.

    Professional installation is critical for proper glass panel pool fences. Overall costs range from $20,000–$60,000.


    Pool Fence Height

    Check your local regulations for the required fence height around residential swimming pools. Many jurisdictions mandate four-foot or taller barriers. Others may require 48 or even 60 inches based on pool location and proximity to the home.

    While meeting code minimums, also consider privacy and child safety needs. Pool fences up to six feet provide a more secluded area that helps contain young children and pets. 

    You should ensure all access gates match the fence height. Gates must be self-closing and self-latching for security.


    Pool Fence Accessories

    Once you select your pool fence material and style, consider how railings, gates, and other accessories can add flair and function.

    Decorative cap rails along the fence top provide an elevated look while hiding sharp edges. For glass panel designs, top rails are a necessary structural component.

    Accent rails in contrasting metal, like copper, make unique aesthetic statements. Or go for simple elegance with black aluminum or stainless steel.

    Base rails at ground level enable a closer-to-the-pool enclosure that reduces gaps along the bottom. Select this with cable and other open-style fences.

    Pool access gates should match the height and style of your fence. Self-closing hinges and spring-loaded or self-latching locks are critical safety features.

    For convenience, look for quality gate hardware that enables keyless entry with an access code. My gate keypad is one of the best features installed for my pool gate. Keypads and electronic locks add smartphone app integration and smart home compatibility.

    Gate designs can mirror traditional swinging openings or opt for modern rolling options. Also, consider smaller gates for convenient pool service access that don’t require opening the main gate.

    Ornate post caps dress up vinyl, aluminum, or steel fence posts with decoration. Arrow, ball, and spear shapes provide classic design. Finials take it up a notch for Gothic flair.

    Flat aluminum post caps offer simple elegance and remove sharp edges. Use decorative lateral post caps to finish horizontal rails for glass panel posts.

    Matching your postcaps and finials to other metal elements creates a cohesive look. Use black, white, or stainless-steel highlights to contrast your main fence color.


    Pool Fence Costs

    On average, expect to budget $15–$45 per linear foot for a basic pool fence installation. More decorative materials and complex designs increase costs.

    For a 500-square-foot pool area, fence costs often range from $7,500–$22,500. Work with local pool contractors to obtain quotes tailored to your specific project.

    Here are typical price ranges by fence material:

    • Vinyl: $15–$25 per linear foot installed
    • Aluminum: $20–$40 per linear foot installed
    • Steel: $25–$50 per linear foot installed
    • Glass: $50–$100+ per linear foot installed
    • Wood: $30–$80 per linear foot installed
    • Wrought iron: $50–$200 per linear foot for custom handcrafted

    Ongoing maintenance costs vary based on material. Vinyl and aluminum fences have the lowest maintenance needs, while wood requires the most preventative sealing and upkeep.


    Choosing Pool Fencing Contractors

    Finding qualified fencing contractors is as important as picking the best materials and designs. You want experienced pros who understand local codes and recommended techniques for pool barriers.

    Here are tips for choosing pool fence installation contractors:

    • Review portfolios to confirm expertise specific to pool fences.
    • Verify proper licensure for your state. Also, confirm contractors have liability insurance and worker’s compensation.
    • Look for testimonials and referrals from past pool clients.
    • Obtain two or three quotes to compare quality and pricing.
    • Ask about timeline expectations and project management.
    • Confirm the warranty coverage on materials and labor.
    • Request copies of any required permits and inspection approvals.

    Investing in a pool fence creates lasting safety, security, and style for your backyard oasis. Careful selection of materials, designs, and pros makes the process smooth from start to finish. Soon you’ll enjoy a tranquil, secluded pool area designed just for your home.


    So, Is a Pool Fence Worth It?

    For most pool owners, investing in a pool fence is absolutely worth the cost. An enclosure around your entire pool area provides essential safeguards. Properly constructed barriers with self-closing gates prevent unsupervised pool access.

    This gives homeowners peace of mind about their family’s safety and keeps their pool compliant with local regulations. Pool fences also give you privacy from neighbors and protection from blown debris and animals. You can create a backyard paradise free of unwanted eyes.

    Although budget-friendly options are available, pool fences entail significant expenses on top of the initial investment in the pool itself. For some homeowners, the added cost may not make sense if they can provide alternate means of securing and supervising their pool. Most pool owners, however, believe a fence enhances their backyard and is a smart long-term addition.

    Get Your Estimate From Fence Experts
    Match with a fence expert to help you with your project.

    FAQs About Pool Fences

    Do I need a fence around my pool?

    Most areas require a fence enclosing all sides of a home swimming pool. Specific regulations vary locally, so check your jurisdiction’s codes to verify requirements for height, self-closing gates, and other specifications that your pool barrier must meet.


    How much does a pool fence cost?

    The average cost to install a pool fence is $15–$45 per linear foot. More decorative designs and premium materials like wood, wrought iron, and glass raise costs to $50–$200+ per linear foot. Get quotes from local pool fencing contractors to understand pricing for your specific project.


    What is the most popular material for pool fences?

    Aluminum is currently the most popular pool fence material, combining durability, affordability, and low maintenance. Other top choices are vinyl and steel — budget-friendly options. Premium materials like wood, cable, glass, and wrought iron add high-end style.


    Should pool gates be self-closing?

    Yes, self-closing mechanisms are essential safety features on pool gates. Building codes require gates leading into pool areas to close and latch automatically after each use to prevent unauthorized access. Self-latching locks add a layer of protection.


    How much space is needed between pool fence pickets?

    The space between fence pickets must be small enough to prevent passage of a 4-inch diameter sphere. Common building codes prohibit openings over 4 inches to deter children from squeezing through. Make sure your pool contractor follows the latest regulations.


    What is the most private pool fence?

    For maximum seclusion and privacy around your pool area, look for fences at least 6 feet high with solid panels and reduced spacing between pickets. Popular private designs include wood, vinyl, and aluminum. Avoid chain link or wire mesh options. Landscape buffers also enhance privacy.


    Editorial Contributors
    avatar for Coty Perry

    Coty Perry

    Expert Writer & Reviewer

    Coty Perry is a lawn and garden writer for Today’s Homeowner. He focuses on providing homeowners with actionable tips that relate to the “Average Joe” who is looking to achieve a healthier and greener lawn. When he isn’t writing he can almost always be found coaching youth football or on some trail in Pennsylvania in search of the next greatest fishing hole.

    Learn More

    photo of Sabrina Lopez

    Sabrina Lopez

    Editor

    Sabrina Lopez is a senior editor for Today’s Homeowner with over 7 years of writing and editing experience in digital media. She has reviewed content across categories that matter to homeowners, including HVAC services, home renovations, lawn and garden care, products for the home, and insurance services. When she’s not reviewing articles to make sure they are helpful, accessible, and engaging for homeowners like herself, Sabrina enjoys spending time with her family and their two parrots.

    Learn More