Nationally, the average cost for gate or fence installation ranges between $2,500 and $10,000, which reflects the range of materials and project sizes. The cost for installing a new fence or gate is determined by the fence materials, the linear footage of the project, and any special features you want to add, such as decorative wrought-iron fence work or an ornate gate.
Pool safety fences protect children and pets, keep guests safe, and add elegance to a pool area. Contractors can install a fence around an in-ground or an above-ground swimming pool either during new construction or to retrofit an existing pool. The height, specific style elements, number of gates, and other factors all affect the overall cost of your pool fence installation.
Measuring the number of linear feet you need is the first step in estimating your pool fence costs. Most residential pool fences range in size from 200 to 350 linear feet. From there, consider the material you prefer. Glass fences will cost the most, followed by vinyl or iron. Most people don't choose a wood fence, as it can get warped by pool water over time (and may not meet local pool safety codes). The number of gates you want installed also drive costs.
As cited above, the average cost for fence installation can range from $2,500 to $10,000. The cost of a pool fence will vary based on your ZIP code, fence size, and fence materials. Luke Beerman of Freedom Builders in Raleigh, North Carolina, shares that in his region, pool fence sizes range from 200 to 350 feet, making the total cost $4,000 $7,000 for a standard home pool.
The cost of installing a fence for an in-ground pool varies based on size, whether it is installed into concrete or soil, and any custom requests the customer has. We can give estimates over the phone or via email based on the style of fence a customer may want, says Beerman of Fence Builders, but because of the specific nature of each job, we dont offer a written contract until we are able to see the job site in person. Typically pool fences are made of black aluminum, Beerman says. Here are some cost examples from Fence Builders:
| Linear feet | Materials | Price per linear foot | Total cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| 200 | 4-foot-tall black aluminum | $20, including installation | $4,000 |
| 200 | 4-foot-tall black aluminum, plus custom arched gates | $25, including installation | $5,000 |
| 350 | 4-foot-tall black aluminum, plus custom arched gates | $21, including installation | $7,350 |
The type of gate installed in a pool fence affects the total cost. Materials for gates cost more than fencing, and the gate must be secured by two sturdy gate posts. For the most part, well include one or two gates in a $21 price-per-linear-foot fence cost, says Beerman of Fence Builders. However, requesting arched gates raises costs at least $175 $200 per gate. To upgrade a $4,000 $7,000 basic fence project with custom arched gates would raise the overall price to $5,000 $10,000.
Above-ground pools typically have fences similar to guardrails that encircle the edges of the pool if it is freestanding or safely enclose a deck area built around the pool. They are commonly 24 to 36 inches in height. Most often these fences attach directly to the above-ground pool. These types of fences have lower materials and installation costs than in-ground pool fences. Consumer prices for DIY materials start at approximately $150.
Most regions have residential pool safety requirements that may be designated by the municipality, state, or local building codes. In North Carolina, says Beerman of Freedom Fence Builders, if youre building a new pool, you have to put a fence in before you can get the final inspection approved. To meet code requirements, the gate must have self-closing hinges, open outward and be 52 54 inches in height from the ground. If the fence encloses the pool as well as an entrance to the house (meaning the house door is the final barrier to the pool), then that door will need an alarm. Fencing professionals should know the local requirements and the type of pool fence and pool safety measurements that are required, but as the pool owner you are the one ultimately responsible for following local child safety laws.
When hiring a local professional to install your swimming pool fence, look for:
A pool fence is an important home improvement project, one that can save lives. Another perk is meeting local building code, which can protect you from liability if someone does get injured in your pool in the future. A pool safety fence helps with your homes resale value, as homebuyers, especially those with children, want to see safety measures in place.