Adding a glass pool fence to pool and outdoor spa areas has become an instant way to add a touch of luxury and style to the space. In addition to creating a clutter-free, transparent barrier, this modern fencing solution is safe and easy to maintain.
Durability, ease of maintenance, and a timeless sense of style are only a few aspects that make glass pool fencing the gold standard for Australian backyards. However, as with everything else you add to your entertainment area, your glass pool fence will require some maintenance to keep it looking as amazing as the day you installed it. This post explores a few key glass pool fencing care tips you should know.
Understanding Why Glass Pool Fences are All the Rage
If you’re still planning your pool and all the additions and accessories that go along with it, then you may be wondering why glass pool fences are so popular. Let’s recap why you may need one in the first place.
According to Australian law, it’s mandatory for any body of water, such as a home spa or swimming pool, that holds 300mm, to have a safety barrier. Strict regulations include having a fence height of 1.2m, self-closing gates, and no-climb zones. With this in mind, many homeowners are opting for glass pool fencing.
Essentially, glass pool fences are becoming the go-to option because they offer a modern, luxurious aesthetic while providing unobstructed, high-visibility safety. This not only enables parents to supervise children and pets but also allows for an expansive view of your garden and property.
Glass pool fences are made using tempered or toughened Grade-A safety glass panels. They can be frameless (spigot-mounted) and semi-frameless (using metal posts) and provide a modern, low-maintenance aesthetic that not only resists corrosion but also enhances the overall look of your outdoor space.
Maintenance is a Must and Easier than You Think
Some very good news for anyone looking to invest in a glass pool fence is that keeping it cleaned and maintained is easier than you think. With that said, our team of installation experts have compiled a list of basic care tips that keep your glass pool fences in tip-top shape.
Use the Right Cleaning Tools
The most common issue homeowners have with glass pool fencing is that glass panels develop scratches. This isn’t caused by kids, pets, or age but rather by abrasive cleaning methods. Scratches and other markings are often caused by well-intentioned homeowners who use regular kitchen scouring pads or stiff-bristled brushes to clean glass panels.
Here, you need to remember that tempered glass can easily develop micro-scratches from harsh and abrasive materials. This can also lead to your glass panels becoming cloudy. The big secret to protecting your glass panels is to use the right cleaning tools. Here’s what you need to know:
- Always use a high-quality squeegee or a clean, soft microfiber cloth
- Start by hosing the glass down with fresh, clean water to remove loose grit and sand, which, if not cleaned off, will act as sandpaper when you start wiping
- Avoid fancy chemicals, as these can contain ingredients that damage the glass. Rather, opt for only using warm water, mixed with a few drops of pH-neutral liquid dish soap
Invest in a Hydrophobic Protective Coating
In Australia, pool chemicals and hard water are a pool fence’s worst enemies. This is because when water evaporates from the glass, it leaves behind mineral deposits such as salt and calcium. These chemicals will eventually etch into the glass, which in turn creates permanent damage that resembles white stains.
You can avoid this by investing in a hydrophobic protective coating. Often referred to as self-cleaning or easy-clean coating, this solution acts like a non-stick frying pan for your fence. This easy-clean solution works by filling the microscopic peaks and valleys of the glass surface, which causes the water to bead up and roll off the glass.
Not only does this solution reduce cleaning time by up to 90%, but it also provides a sacrificial barrier against scratches and chemical etching. Some good news here is that if your fence wasn’t pre-treated before installation, you can purchase and apply aftermarket kits such as Nanokote or EnduroShield.
Reduce the Impact Zone
Since pool glass is designed to withstand significant weight, it can handle the accidental bumps. However, you should keep in mind that your fence is vulnerable to sharp, localized impacts on or around the edges.
A few tips to prevent this include the following:
- Keep heavy furniture such as tables and sun loungers at a safe distance
- Be careful with garden equipment when tending to grass or shrubs near the glass
- Experts recommend keeping a safe distance between your fence and the grass line, where possible
Final Thoughts
Keeping your glass pool fence looking amazing is as simple as following our suggestions, as well as those provided by your professional installer. Taking the time to maintain your glass pool fence will ensure that you can enjoy the safety and beauty it offers for years to come!
