Does anyone else feel like the summer crept up on you???
Like it or not, the heat is here to stay for a bit, so why not make the most of it? If you’re like us here at Hurricane, that means long, lazy days by the pool– basking in the sun as the kids jump, dive, and splash. It’s idyllic. However, without the proper safety measures put in place, that beautiful summer dream can quickly turn into a nightmare.
More children aged 1-4 die from drowning than any other cause of death, says the CDC, which goes on to state:
“A four-sided isolation fence which separates the pool area from the house and yard reduces a child’s risk of drowning by 83% compared to three-sided property-line fencing (which encloses the entire yard, but does not separate the pool from the house).”
As you can see, pool fencing is essential to creating a safe pool environment. It is also a key element to getting your pool up to code, which we will talk about in detail later on in this post.
First, let’s dive into our 3 most popular pool fencing options that our Richmond & Tidewater, VA area customers absolutely love, and may just be the perfect fit for your pool this summer.
If you are ready to get your pool up to code, contact us at Hurricane Fence today. With over 30 years in the fence industry, we can help you find exactly what you need. Give our Richmond office a call at 804-353-6030, our Tidewater area office at 757-853-5669, or simply send us a message online and we will get back to you within 24 business hours to schedule your free estimate.
Pool Code & Compliance
In Virginia, residential pool owners, by law, must continually maintain their pool area and ensure that it is always code-compliant.
According to Virginia’s Legislative Information System (LIS), “Violation of any such ordinance may be made punishable by a fine of not more than $300 or confinement in jail for not more than thirty days, either or both. Each day's violation may be construed as a separate offense.”
To ensure your pool area is up to code, here are some key requirements to keep in mind:
Fence Height: Pool fences must be at least 4 feet (48 inches) tall
Fence Spacing: The maximum vertical clearance between grade and the bottom of the fence should not exceed 2 inches.
Gate Requirements: All access gates must open outward, away from the pool area, and should be self-closing and self-latching.
Climbability: The fence should be designed and constructed to prevent climbing.
If you’d like more details on pool code requirements, the entirety of the BOCA pool code can be found here, and the Virginia ordinance on pool fencing can be found here.
By choosing one of our pool fencing options (ActiveYards or otherwise) and following these guidelines, you can ensure that your pool area is both safe and compliant with Virginia's pool code requirements.
Pool Fencing Options
When deciding on pool fencing, the best place to start is choosing your preferred material. Aluminum, vinyl, and wood are all acceptable options when installed using pool code guidelines. Again, we will touch on code specifics shortly, but for those who are looking for some no-nonsense pool fence options fit for any home, we’ve got you covered!
Luckily for our customers, Hurricane Fence is the area’s exclusive dealer of one of that nation's leading manufacturers of high quality, low maintenance, American-made fencing, ActiveYards. Each and every fence they produce is built to last, impress, and protect, and we are proud to partner with them for our aluminum, vinyl, and pool fencing options!
For the full list of ActiveYards fencing styles, check out their website, or download the digital brochure below!
Here are our top-selling ActiveYards pool fencing options:
Aluminum: ActiveYards 54" “Granite”
This sleek and modern aluminum fence features a durable powder-coated finish in a stylish granite color. The 54-inch height and narrow picket spacing ensure that your pool area is secure and compliant with local pool codes.
Aluminum: ActiveYards Pool Code “Bedrock”
For a classic and timeless look, the Bedrock Aluminum fence is an excellent choice. It features a traditional wrought iron style with the added benefits of low-maintenance aluminum construction. The pool code-compliant version stands at 54 inches tall and features narrow picket spacing for added safety.
Vinyl: ActiveYards Pool Code “Dogwood”
If you prefer the look of a vinyl fence, the Dogwood Vinyl option is a great choice. The Dogwood is a crowd-favorite option and one of our top-selling fence styles in general. The pool code-compliant version is available in a 6-foot height and features narrow picket spacing to meet code requirements.
Maintenance Tips
To ensure your pool fence remains safe, secure, and looking its best for years to come, regular maintenance is essential. Here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Clean your fence regularly: Depending on the material of your fence, use a mild detergent and a soft-bristled brush to remove dirt, algae, and other debris. Rinse thoroughly with a hose to prevent any cleaning solution from entering the pool water.
- Inspect for damage: Periodically check your fence for signs of damage, such as loose or missing pickets, hinges, or latches. Address any issues promptly to maintain the fence's structural integrity and code compliance.
- Lubricate moving parts: Apply a lubricant to gate hinges and latches to ensure smooth operation and prevent rust or corrosion. This will help maintain the gate's self-closing and self-latching functions.
- Trim nearby vegetation: Keep plants, shrubs, and trees near the fence trimmed to prevent them from interfering with the fence's operation or providing a means for children to climb over the barrier.
- Schedule professional inspections: Consider having a professional fence contractor inspect your pool fence annually to identify any potential issues and make necessary repairs or adjustments.
By following these maintenance tips, you can extend the life of your pool fence and ensure it continues to provide a safe and secure environment for your family and friends.
Complementary Pool Safety Measures
While a code-compliant pool fence is a critical component of pool safety, it should not be the only measure in place. Here are some additional safety features and practices to consider:
- Pool Covers: When the pool is not in use, consider installing a safety cover. This can provide an additional layer of protection against accidental falls into the water.
- Door and Window Alarms: Install alarms on doors and windows leading to the pool area to alert you if a child unexpectedly enters the vicinity. This can be especially useful if the pool is accessed from the house.
- Water Safety Education: Enroll your children in age-appropriate water safety and swim lessons. Ensure that all family members and guests understand basic pool safety rules, such as no diving in shallow areas and no running around the pool deck.
- Life-Saving Equipment: Keep life-saving equipment, such as a ring buoy or a reaching pole, near the pool in case of an emergency. Ensure that all family members know how to use this equipment properly.
- Adult Supervision: The most crucial aspect of pool safety is constant adult supervision. Designate a "water watcher" to monitor children in and around the pool, and ensure that they are free from distractions such as cell phones or conversations.
By implementing these complementary pool safety measures in addition to a code-compliant pool fence, you can create a comprehensive safety plan that minimizes the risk of accidents and ensures a fun, worry-free summer for everyone.
Dive Into Summer!
Creating a safe and enjoyable pool environment for your family and friends is a top priority, and a code-compliant pool fence is the foundation of this effort. By choosing one of our top-selling ActiveYards pool fencing options and following Virginia's pool code requirements, you can ensure that your pool area is secure and compliant.
Remember, a pool fence is just one aspect of a comprehensive pool safety plan. Regular maintenance, complementary safety measures, and constant adult supervision are all essential components in preventing accidents and creating a worry-free swimming experience for everyone.
If you're ready to take the first step towards a safer pool environment, contact Hurricane Fence today. With over 30 years of experience in the fence industry, our knowledgeable team can help you select the perfect pool fence to meet your needs and ensure code compliance.
Give our Richmond office a call at 804-353-6030, our Tidewater area office at 757-853-5669, or simply send us a message online. We'll get back to you within 24 business hours to schedule your free estimate and help you create a beautiful, secure pool area that your family can enjoy for years to come.
