How much does it cost to install a pool fence?

Reviewed by Cristina Miguelez remodeling expert. Written by Fixr.com.

Residential pools are a wonderful stress reliever and the perfect place to entertain summer guests, but for anyone with small children or pets, they also pose dangers due to injury and drowning. According to the national Pool Safely PSA campaign, drowning is the leading cause of unintentional death in children ages 1-4. Even the most diligent parents can use help keeping their kids and animals safe from pool-related accidents. Installing a swimming pool fence is one way to provide extra protection.

The size of your pool and type of fencing material you choose has the biggest impact on cost. You also need to factor in labor for installation. The national average range is between $3,000 to $10,000, with most homeowners paying around $6,500 for a 100-linear-foot aluminum pool fence with a self-closing gate and a pool fence net. Prices can be as low as $1,000 for a 100-linear-foot chain link fence with a gate or as high as $21,550 to install a 100-linear-foot frameless tempered glass fence and a self-closing gate.

Pool Fence Installation Cost

Pool Fence Cost per Foot

It should come as no surprise that the size of your fence plays a big role in how much it costs. So, when it comes to pricing out the project, it is important to know how much material you need. The average cost per linear foot to install a pool fence ranges from $15 to $25, including labor and installation. However, these costs vary depending on what material you choose to install. For estimating, we will use this average range per linear foot for a fence between 4 and 5 feet in height. The most common fence sizes usually range from 100 to 300 linear feet. Depending on how large your fence is, you can expect to pay between $750 and $7,500.

Pool Safety Fence Price by Material

Naturally, you want the style and look of your safety fence to complement your yard and home. The good news is that there are plenty of materials to choose from at prices to fit every budget. One of the most common materials used for pool fences is mesh, but there are plenty of other options from which you can choose for your own fence. Depending on which one you choose, you can expect to pay between $3 and $195 per linear foot for materials alone and $5 to $210 to install the new fence between 4 and 5 feet tall.

Chain Link Pool Fence

Chain link fencing costs $3 to $8 per linear foot for materials only, with installed costs ranging from $5 to $12. Chain link fences are a less-common pool fencing option. The advantage of a chain link fence is that it is relatively low-cost. Standard uncoated chain links are prone to rust, but vinyl-coated chain links are also available. The vinyl coating protects and extends the life of this fence. The disadvantage of a chain link fence is that it is very easy to climb, so children are more likely to make it over the fence and into the pool area unsupervised, although most pets will be safe.

Mesh Pool Fence

Mesh fencing costs between $3 and $8 per linear foot for materials only. Expect prices installed to range from $7 to $10. Mesh fences are the safest and one of the most affordable pool fencing on average for materials and installation. They are difficult to climb, and the soft material is kid-friendly. Mesh is low-maintenance, and unlike other fencing materials, a mesh fence does not completely block your view. Choose mesh if your focus is on getting the best function at the lowest price.

Galvanized Steel Pool Fence

Of all types of metal pool fences, galvanized steel is one of the most affordable options, ranging from $4 to $15 per linear foot for materials only and $7 to $20 for prices installed. Many steel pool fences are either made with multiple bars with about 4 inches of space between them or a perforated sheet of metal that you can see through.

Aluminum Pool Fence

The average aluminum fence cost per foot ranges from $5 to $20 for materials only. The cost installed ranges between $15 and $35. As far as metal pool fence costs go, aluminum is a great middle ground option. As with other options, the bulk of the expense with metal fencing comes from higher labor costs for installation.

Wrought Iron Pool Fence

Wrought iron pool fences typically cost between $5 and $25 per linear foot. However, custom options can be more pricey. Prices installed range from $15 to $40 per linear foot. These metal pool fences are strong and attractive, making them a great choice for your yard. These will be among the most expensive metal pool fencing options due to the overall strength of the material.

Vinyl Pool Fence

Vinyl fencing costs about $10 to $25 per linear foot for materials only. The cost to install a vinyl pool fence ranges from $15 to $40 per linear foot. Vinyl pool fences are less common than wood, but they share similar visual characteristics and come in many designs and colors. Installation is labor-intensive, but these fences are low-maintenance and can last for up to 30 years. The sectional design of vinyl fences means that gaps can form if a section of fencing fails. This type of fence is also relatively easy for children to climb, so many people design it as a picket fence with sharper tops that deter climbing.

Wood Pool Fence

The wood for your fence costs $14 to $20 per linear foot. Installed, you can expect to pay between $20 and $30 per linear foot. Wood is a traditional fencing material that continues to be used due to its aesthetic versatility. You can paint a wood fence to match your home, and there are multiple patterns and heights from which you can choose. A solid design is preferred over slatted to reduce the risk of a child gaining access through a faulty slat. Solid wood fences also offer visual privacy. The downside of a wooden fence is the time-consuming maintenance of repainting. You have to paint and treat it at least once or twice a year.

Plexiglass Pool Fence

A new Plexiglass or Lexan fence offers a glass-like look for half the price of a tempered glass fence. Material costs are $20 to $30 per linear foot. Installation brings the total cost per linear foot to $25 to $40. Plexiglass or Lexan offers an impact-resistant and climb-proof pool fence solution. While this material starts out clear, it can yellow and become scratched and cloudy over time.

Swimming Pool Glass Fence

Glass material pricing averages $90 to $195 per linear foot. Installation costs are lower, bringing the total cost to install per linear foot between $95 and $210. Glass offers a clear view of the pool area, and with its durable, impact-resistant, climb-proof design, it is also a very safe choice. Glass pool fences can either be framed, frameless, or semi-frameless. Framed fences have glass panes held in place on four sides with a railing. Frameless fences do not have any interruptions between each panel. Semi-frameless pool fences have posts between the panels but will not have railings on the top and bottom.

Pool Fencing Prices By Brand

There are plenty of different pool fencing companies out there, and one of the first steps in installing your new fence is choosing the right one for your project. Some of the top brands in the business are Guardian, Protect-a-Child, Katchakid, Life Saver, All-Safe, and Pool Perf. We will go over each briefly so that you can plan your project accordingly.

Protect-a-Child offers durable pool fences of all sizes and colors that feature composite fiberglass and weatherproof mesh. Katchakid’s removable pool fences feature mesh panels made with Textilene®, a PVC-coated polyester fabric. Guardian is the leader in the industry for removable mesh fencing. The three main options they offer include Premier Mesh, Guardtex Mesh, and Pet Mesh.

All-Safe pool fences are made with strong mesh and aircraft-grade aluminum that protect children and pets when they must and are easily removable once you do not need them. Life Saver pool fences also feature Textilene® mesh and triple-reinforced poles, self-closing and latching gates, and tension-based supports. Depending on which type you choose, you can expect to pay between $10 and $30 per linear foot for the average pool fence installed.

Labor Costs to Install a Pool Fence

The professional installation rate for a swimming pool fence varies depending on materials, location, and the complexity of the project. The average hourly cost for pool fence installation is $30 to $80, with labor costs typically taking up about half of that cost. You can expect to pay anywhere from $2 to $15 per linear foot of fence installed for labor.

If you hire a professional, expect it to take between a half and a full day, depending on the length of fencing being installed. A good guideline for estimating labor is to plan for up to 50% of the total price, with the exception of glass because it has a much lower labor cost due to ease and speed of installation.

Above-Ground Pool Fence Cost

In most states, you must have a pool fence for any body of water that is more than 18 inches deep. In most cases, your insurance provider requires one for you to get coverage. Depending on whether you have an above-ground pool or in-ground pool, your fencing requirements may vary. Having a deck also affects the required fence height.

Above-ground pool fences will be slightly different in general because the fence can actually be installed around the edge of the pool instead of on the ground surrounding it. This makes them more like guardrails than actual fences that typically range in height from 24 to 36 inches. Because of this, you will most likely need fewer materials, which means they will typically cost less. Most above-ground pool fences cost between $100 and $450.

Baby Pool Fence Prices

When it comes to child-proofing a baby pool, the most secure options are tempered glass or mesh since these materials don’t provide a way for a child to climb over or get underneath. They also give parents the best view of the baby pool. Whether you choose mesh or tempered glass, you can expect to pay anywhere from $525 to $15,750. You need less fencing for a baby pool versus a full-sized pool. The amount of fencing you use depends on how much free space you want inside the pool area. Usually, you can expect to use between 30 and 120 feet of fencing. Most baby pools are approximately 75 feet long.

Removable Pool Fence Cost

Instead of having a pool cover or pool alarm, many homeowners put up a removable pool fence. These fences are more cost-effective than permanent fences or automatic pool covers and offer the best protection for kids and pets. Moreover, they are more convenient than constantly dealing with a manual pool cover. Removable fences take only a few minutes to put up and take down. You will not need any tools or even a helping hand. They offer a means of security and protection without the price tag of a permanent installation. Most removable pool fences are made from mesh and can withstand all weather conditions. They are easy to move once you want to take them down. Check that your removable pool safety fence meets or exceeds building codes and rules in your area. Average costs are between $1,500 and $2,500. Typically, you need between 60 and 120 feet of fencing.

Pool Fence Post Cost

When it comes to pool fences, one of the common materials you will see is mesh. Mesh has to be installed with something else. Here, we will discuss different pool posts, most of which will be made from aluminum or fiberglass. Aluminum pool fence posts are low-maintenance, affordable, versatile, eco-friendly, and durable. On the downside, it is nearly impossible to fix a bent aluminum post. It will most likely have to be replaced if something happens to it.

Fiberglass posts are highly durable, usually lasting between 20 and 30 years with minimal maintenance. Fiberglass offers strength and style, giving you peace of mind that your pool fence will stay in good shape for as long as it is up. Fiberglass fence posts are more expensive than their aluminum counterparts, but they are also usually more durable over time, too. Many companies have started making their aluminum posts thinner to reduce costs, which compromises their overall strength. Less common options include PVC and wood pool fence posts. Depending on which one you choose for your pool fence, you can expect to pay between $20 and $80 per post.

Pool Safety Net Prices

Swimming pool nets are a second layer of security to protect children and pets in the pool area. Safety nets are stretched over the top of the pool and attached to anchors around the edge. They form a horizontal barrier directly over the water’s surface as opposed to the vertical barrier of a fence surrounding the pool. Even if a child or pet makes it through the fence, the net can keep them from falling into the pool. The combination of a pool fence and pool safety net is the most secure possible setup. Average costs for a net and installation for a standard pool are between $1,500 and $3,000. This is the pricing for between 60 to 120 feet of fencing. If you want a separate inground hot tub or spa, this typically costs between $600 and $1,000.

Pool Gate Costs

A pool safety fence is only as secure as its entry points. If your fence door is left open or unlocked, the fence does no good. Check your building codes prior to choosing a pool gate. Most codes require pool gates to be self-closing and to open outward from the pool area. They should also have a self-locking mechanism that kids cannot reach. Self-closing gates use springs and magnets to make sure that the door closes on its own and stays closed. The average costs for self-closing gates range from $200 to $500 for non-glass and up to $1,000 for glass. These requirements align with national safety standards.

Paint Pool Fence Cost

If you feel like a plain fence detracts from your yard’s aesthetic, you can paint it. For metal pool fences, the best option is electrostatic paint. It uses positively charged particles that attract it to the fence and protect the metal from the pool water chemicals. It is applied with a hose that sprays over the surface and clings to it. Typically, painters charge between $50 and $70 per hour for electrostatic painting.

For wood fences, go with a strong acrylic latex paint. This paint offers a strong barrier against moisture. Vinyl fencing has a slick surface, so it can be more of a challenge to find paint that adheres to the surface and stays in good shape. For this reason, the best option for these fences is epoxy-based paint. Most painters’ rates range from $25 to $100 per hour.

When choosing a color, where you live and the landscape surrounding the pool play a role in finding the right look for your fence. For anyone living in desert-like areas, tan and brown fences are popular because they blend in with the surroundings. Black is universally a popular color because it offers contrast. Some homeowners choose a two-tone approach that almost makes the fence disappear. Across the board, white is the least popular color overall due to its lack of transparency and stark contrast against most backgrounds.

Pool Safety Fencing Regulations

Many states and insurance companies require homeowners to fence their private pools. In most cases, all in-ground pools need to have a fence installed, while some above-ground pools may not need one. The federal Pool Safely grant program, which provides education and information to help reduce the number of pool-related deaths, produces Safety Barrier Guidelines for Residential Pools as a starting point for planning your fence installation.

While regulations vary by state and city, there are some national recommendations. For starters, fences should be at least 4 feet high. However, 5 feet or higher is preferable. You also need to construct the fence away from any permanent structures that people can use to climb or crawl over the fence. The clearance at the bottom should not be more than 4 inches on solid ground or 2 inches on shifting surfaces like gravel. If your fence has separate boards, the space between them should not exceed 4 inches. Gates and fence doors should swing open away from the pool. Doors should have self-closing and self-latching locks that smaller children cannot reach on their own.

Pool Fence Maintenance

No matter what material you choose for your fence, you need to perform periodic maintenance and upkeep. Mesh fences are UV-coated to prevent sun damage, making them very low-maintenance. You need to check for wear and abrasions a few times throughout the year. Chain link fences, on the other hand, can corrode over time. You will want to apply a vinyl coating to extend the life of your chain link fence. Vinyl fencing is known for its longevity and minimal maintenance requirements. On the downside, repairs can be more complicated if issues arise. You will have to fix it in sections, which can add to the overall cost.

Metal fences are relatively low-maintenance, although they can bend or develop signs of wear due to the weather over time. You need to wash them regularly. Plexiglass also needs to be cleaned regularly with soap and water. Be sure to use light pressure when cleaning. For a wooden fence, you need to have it painted and inspected periodically for loose slats if you have slats rather than solid construction. Finally, glass fences require frequent cleaning, which can be washed away with soap and water, a commercial cleaner, or a home mixture of vinegar and distilled water.

Additional Considerations and Costs

• Topography. The topography of your location can also affect your total cost. If your fencing must be installed along a slope or placed into soil rather than the usual masonry or concrete base, expect labor costs to go up significantly. It takes more time and effort to ensure a uniform fence height along the contour. If the slope is too steep, a step-down construction may be necessary, which is also time-consuming.
• Fines. In most states, you must have a fence around an in-ground pool. Some above-ground pools may also require one for safety reasons. Depending on where you live, you can face different consequences for not having a fence around your pool. Typically, you can expect to pay anywhere from $200 to $800. However, some regions charge upwards of $5,000.
• Appearance. Many homeowners are initially worried that they will lose the aesthetic appeal of their pool when they add a safety fence. But with the right fencing material and layout, your pool can be safe and secure, plus look fantastic.​
• Pet safety fences. If you are only installing a fence to keep pets safe, you can install a mesh fence specifically for pets. This mesh is thicker than standard options and deters pets of all sizes and types.
• DIY. If you want to build your fence on your own, you can save money on labor costs but expect to take much more time out of your days. Furthermore, you risk messing up the installation, and the fence deteriorates faster than usual.
• Home value. Adding a fence around your pool increases your home’s overall value, which is a bonus if you’re planning to sell. Fences are a hit or miss if they add value, but pool fences generally will because they offer a safety benefit.
• Custom pool fence. If you build a custom fence with unique specifications, you can expect the project to cost more. This includes adding multiple gates, needing different heights, or installing the fence in a complicated shape. Depending on your plans, you can expect to pay $200 to $3,000 more.