What Comes First, the Pool or the Fence?

Swimming pool weather is the best weather. On those days when the sun is scorching hot – pretty much every day in summer for us here in San Antonio — the heat can be brutal. There’s nothing like a dip in a cool pool to make you feel refreshed. But while a pool brings many comforts and conveniences, there is also the safety aspect to take into consideration.

That usually involves a fence of some kind. In fact, it’s required by law in most cities. If you’ve decided to put in a pool, you may wonder “what comes first: the pool or the fence?” And if you already have a fence but no pool yet, keep in mind you may have to update your fence to ensure it’s in compliance with local law.

If your existing fence is up to code, you probably don’t have to replace the whole thing; perhaps you may just have to make modifications and make sure it’s well maintained.

If you want a pool but can’t afford a pool and a fence at once, put the fence in first. You can always add in the pool later when you have the budget. The opposite isn’t true; you can’t put in a pool with no fence no matter how tight your budget is.

Swimming Pool Codes

When installing a fence first, familiarize yourself with basic guidelines and pool codes so that when you’re ready to put in a pool, you won’t run into problems with the existing fence. Here are some pool code basics to follow:

• Pool codes vary by town and state, so always check with your local town authorities.
• All bodies of water that contain more than two feet of water are considered to be pools and have to meet strict pool safety requirements.
• International Residential Code (IRC) is the minimum standard.
• Fences have to be at least four feet high and be installed around the entire perimeter of the pool. This is true in Texas, as pool fences must measure at least 48 inches from the ground.
• All fence gates must be self-closing and latching, opening away from the pool for safety reasons.
• An audible warning device should be included on all doors leading to the pool if there is no locking gate between the house and the pool.
• For an above ground pool, a wall as high as 48 inches is considered a fence.

If you decide to do your project in reverse order because you can afford both investments at the same time, you can put in the pool first. However, be sure to schedule the fence installation ahead of time so that there is no gap in construction. Having a pool without a fence means you will have to put up temporary fencing in the meantime.

Leaving a pool without a fence is a serious safety violation and is punishable by law.

Contact Alamo Decks and Fence

Whether you’d like a chain link fence or a wood privacy fence to surround your pool, call Alamo Decks and Fence for a free quote and consultation at 210-794-0875.