Nothing is more refreshing on those hot summer days than jumping in a cool, sparkling pool! It’s definitely one of the best ways to relax and cool off on a warm and sunny New Hampshire afternoon. If you currently have a pool or are planning to have one built, then it’s important to know how to choose a pool fence that meets local and state requirements.
It goes without saying that the safety and protection of your children is a top priority for you, and a swimming pool fence is one of the best ways to protect them from accidents. The professionals at Ultimate Fence are here to help you understand the regulations that have been put in place for their protection and how to make sure you choose the right pool fence so you can be sure you meet these standards.
Saving Lives With Pool Safety Requirements in New Hampshire
Residential pools in New Hampshire must comply with the specifications found in Appendix G of the New Hampshire state building code. This code requires New Hampshire homeowners to take certain safety precautions with swimming pools, such as erecting fences and other safety barriers.
The New Hampshire state building code sets the standards and requirements for swimming pool barriers and fences that you must have around your home pool to protect young children and medically-frail individuals from accessing your pool. In addition, your local county or city government can enact separate regulations as long as they are at least as stringent as the state rules.
Is a New Hampshire Pool Fence Required if I Already Have a Privacy Fence?
If you have a privacy fence around your yard, you may or may not need an additional barrier around your pool. There are several important factors to keep in mind, so let’s explore the requirements to determine if you need a pool barrier installed by a fencing contractor in New Hampshire in addition to your privacy fence.
Requirements of a Pool Barrier or Fence
According to the safety guidelines from the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, pool barriers and fences should be a minimum of 4 feet tall and should surround all sides of a swimming pool. The maximum size for chain link mesh in New Hampshire is 1.25 inches (compared to 2.25 inches in the International Building Code).
Other Pool Safety Regulations
In order to pass a final inspection and receive a certificate of completion, a residential swimming pool must meet barrier requirements. Here are some of those requirements:
- Fences should have no more than a 2-inches between the bottom rail or pickets and the ground.
- The fence shall not allow passage of a 4-inch diameter (102 mm) sphere.
- All doors and windows providing direct access from the home to the pool must be equipped with an exit alarm that is audible throughout the home and lasts 30 seconds.
- All doors providing direct access from the home to the pool must be equipped with a self-closing, self-latching device with a release mechanism placed no lower than 54 inches above the floor
- The pool must be equipped with an approved safety pool cover
With these requirements in mind, it may be wise to have a secondary barrier within your yard, even if you already have a privacy fence installed. This is especially true if you have pets or small children. The more precautions you can take to protect your family, the safer they will be!
More Tips for Making Your Pool Safe
The addition of a pool fence is an excellent start, but it’s advisable to take a few additional steps to protect your little ones. Here are some quick tips:
- Swimming Lessons – Water safety lessons can reduce the risk of accidental childhood drowning by 88%. Even children as young as 1-year-old can benefit from swimming lessons. When a young child is comfortable and learns how to be safe in the water, it can help prevent accidental drowning.
- Get a Pool Cover – If your children can walk across the pool without falling in, that can be a potential lifesaver.
- Don’t Allow Access Without Supervision – Constant, focused supervision when your child is in or near a pool or any body of water is imperative.
What’s Your Liability?
It’s important to note that if something tragic were to happen on your property, you could be held liable for accidental injuries or death if you do not follow the law on swimming pool safety. Make sure to contact your homeowner’s insurance carrier for the coverage requirements and to make sure you are protected. If your pool barrier doesn’t meet the required safety standards, it may delay the closing in the event that you want to sell your home.
New Hampshire Pool Fence Options
Your top priority must be safety and security when considering swimming pool fence options, but that does not mean you need to sacrifice appearance. There are a variety of options that Ultimate Fence, your top-rated fencing contractor in New Hampshire has to offer. We are here to help you decide what best fits your needs for safety and a great look! Let’s explore a few of the top choices:
Aluminum Pool Fencing
Aluminum is a great pool fence option as it is very low maintenance and has a beautiful classic look. While it is not designed for privacy, it is both safe and secure. An aluminum fence offers a wide variety of styles, finishes, and accessories, so you can customize your pool fence to accent and beautify your pool area while also adding value to your property and home.
Vinyl Pool Fencing
Vinyl is a good, cost-effective way to add beauty, privacy, and security to your swimming pool and residence, regardless of the size! A vinyl fence is virtually maintenance-free, it’s durable and resistant to rotting, cracking, and fading and comes in a variety of sizes, styles, and colors.
Chain Link Pool Fencing
Another option for your New Hampshire pool fence is chain link fencing. New Hampshire properties that need an economical yet sturdy option can benefit best from installing a chain link fence. Chain link fencing is available in traditional galvanized steel and PVC-coated versions and can even be installed with colored slats through the openings to create a fence with more privacy.
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When installed by a reputable fencing contractor in New Hampshire like Ultimate Fence, a pool fence can last a long time!
Ultimate Fence Can Help with Your New Hampshire Pool Fence!
If you are having a pool installed and want to make sure you meet the safety requirements for your pool fence, then Ultimate Fence is here to answer all of your questions and address every concern! We’re a highly-rated fencing contractor in New Hampshire and will ensure that you have all the information necessary to meet the requirements that will help protect your family and pets. Whether it’s a new installation or a replacement fence, we can help!
Use our easy-to-use online quote tool to get a preliminary quote or reach our friendly, professional staff today by calling us at (603) 818-3619 or contacting us through our website. We look forward to assisting you with all of your fencing needs!
