3 Reasons Wood Makes a Great Choice for Your Pool Fence
Getting a swimming pool requires more investment on your part than just simply the upfront cost of the pool. There’s maintenance costs, equipment, time, and most importantly, pool noodles in a wide array of colours (for the kids, of course). Then there’s one more investment, and a legal requirement in Ottawa: the pool fence. Every pool in the city must have an enclosure that is at least 1.5 metres (5 feet) high, with a self-latching gate. But just because it’s a legal responsibility, doesn’t mean that you can’t have some fun with it. Here are three great reasons why you should consider a wood fence for your pool enclosure:
Made to Measure
There are a lot of pool fence options apart from wood: wrought iron and ornamental aluminum have a touch of class to them, PVC is very modern, and chain link is very cost-effective. So what does lumber offer? Quite a lot, actually—being highly customizable, for one. Apart from using the wood of any tree you like, you can also cut each panel of your wood fence to be as high as you like (as long as you keep to the bylaw) and position them however you please. If you favour maximum privacy, you can definitely have it.
Stains and Paints
You could order vinyl in an assortment of colours, but let’s face it, nothing beats the look of wood. You can paint it any colour you like, from the classic white to a trendy Marsala, the 2015 Pantone colour of the year. Or if you favour a more natural look, give your wood fence a stain that retains its natural grainy texture. Many stains and paints are available that will help protect your wood from moisture, an incredibly important asset when it comes to a pool fence, where water gets everywhere.
Cost-Effectiveness
Depending on the specific species of lumber used, wood will almost always be cheaper than either aluminum or PVC. When you’re already shelling out a lot of money upfront for the installation of the pool itself, this can lighten the burden somewhat. It also applies to maintenance: while PVC is the most low-maintenance fencing material, requiring a light washing, wood panels that are damaged can be replaced cheaply and easily. Other fence styles, when damaged, can be much more difficult to repair or replace.
If you’re still not sure that wood is right for you, talk to your local fence manufacturer about your specific needs and budget. They can walk you through all the different pool fence options, and help you pick the right one for you. Whether or not it’s a wood fence, what really matters most is that your pool area is safe and secure.