Can You Install Pool Fencing in Newcastle Properties on Uneven Ground?

 

Installing pool fencing in Newcastle properties with uneven surfaces is a widespread dilemma for homeowners residing in sloping or irregular locations. The bad news is not that you can't install fences on uneven grounds in Newcastle; it's that you can, so long as you employ the appropriate techniques, supplies, and obey local ordinances. You will see how this is achieved, explore the available options, and consider the factors to keep in mind to make your pool area both safe and stylish.

Can pool fencing be fitted on sloping or uneven ground in Newcastle?

Yes, pool fencing can indeed be installed on sloping or uneven ground in Newcastle. Most houses in the area have natural slopes or undulating gardens, so this is a common issue for both DIYers and experienced installers. The solution is to choose the appropriate installation technique and engage professional fencing experts who know how to accommodate your site's specific topography.

What are the primary ways to install pool fencing on uneven terrain?

There are several tried-and-true methods of installing fencing on sloping ground, each with benefits:

Level-Topped Fence: 

  • Suitable for ground with only slight rises or dips. 

  • The fence panels are level at the top, and gaps at the bottom (created by the uneven ground) are filled with soil, gravel, or landscaping material. 

  • This approach provides a neat, uniform look but can involve some minor ground preparation.

Stepped Fence: 

  • Best for steeper slopes, this method involves installing each panel one step higher or lower than the previous one, following the contour of the land. 

  • The result is a “staircase” effect along the fence line. 

  • While this approach is practical for significant elevation changes, it can leave triangular gaps at the bottom of each step, which may need to be filled or covered for safety and compliance.

Racked (or Raked) Fence: 

  • This method is employed for inclines of a gradual nature, enabling the panels of the fence to be at an angle that follows the natural contour of the ground surface. 

  • The vertical pickets are always upright, though the rails incline to run in tandem with the slope. 

  • Racked fencing is generally ideal due to the lack of breaks and smooth finish, but is optimised for slopes no greater than a 10-degree incline.

  • Customisable solutions, like frameless or semi-frameless glass panels, can also be designed to suit uneven terrain, offering safety and a contemporary look.

What are the regulations that need to be adhered to for pool fencing on uneven terrain in Newcastle?

No matter the slope of your property, all pool fencing in Newcastle has to meet NSW pool safety standards. The key requirements are:

  • Minimum height of 1200mm above finished ground level.

  • Gaps in the fence should never be more than 100mm anywhere, even on sloping ground.

  • The wall should be made of strong, non-climbable materials.

  • Gates should be self-closing and swing away from the pool, with latches pool-side mounted.

On sloping land, it's also important to regularly inspect to ensure that soil movement or landscaping hasn't reduced the effective height or created new openings in your fence. Fencing experts in your local area can provide recommendations on how to stay compliant as your garden matures or evolves. 

What type of material is most suitable for pool fencing on sloping terrain?

  • Aluminium and glass are both good options for Newcastle's seaside climate and can be tailored to suit irregular shapes and slopes. 

  • Aluminium is lightweight, rustproof, and simple to install in racked or stepped formations.

  • Glass panels, particularly frameless designs, can be trimmed to size and fitted with adjustable spigots, providing a secure and fashionable barrier even on difficult ground.

How can you guarantee a safe and aesthetically pleasing outcome?

  • Work with experienced installers: Local installers are familiar with the specific conditions of Newcastle's ground and can recommend the ideal solution for your site.

  • Select good materials: Hard-wearing fencing will endure both the weather and the passage of time.

  • Periodic maintenance: Inspect your fence regularly for gaps, loose panels, or shifts in ground level that might impact compliance.

You will enjoy a secure and attractive pool area that complements your property!

Pool fencing in Newcastle can be safely and stylishly installed on uneven ground using techniques like level-topped, stepped, or racked fencing. The key is to work with knowledgeable installers, use quality materials, and ensure your fence remains compliant with local regulations. 


Comments