How To Build Diy Pool Enclosure
Let’s face it, a swimming pool is the perfect place to relax on a hot summer day. However, an un-fenced pool is also the perfect place for small children and inquisitive pets. While the fence and locked gate might seem like a simple solution, there are many reasons why you might not have them. Perhaps you don’t own your own home or perhaps you rent your property through private housing. Maybe you just don’t like fences and prefer something more aesthetic instead?
Whatever your circumstances, here we’ll explore how to build a DIY pool enclosure for when your pool isn’t fenced-in. This guide will help you learn everything you need to know about building an enclosure for your swimming pool so that it remains safe from inquisitive children or pets while maintaining its aesthetic appeal.
7 Steps To Build Diy Pool Enclosure
Step One: Research Your Options
A great way to start the process of building a pool enclosure is to explore your options. There are several different types of pool enclosures available for purchase, so researching the different types of enclosure will help you to decide which one is right for your situation. The most common types of pool enclosure include: For those who don’t have the time, budget or desire to build their own enclosure, there are a number of pre-made pool enclosures available for purchase. While they might not be as customizable as building your own enclosure, they’re still a great option for those who just want a quick and easy solution.
Step Two: Estimate the Size of Your Pool Enclosure
While it might be tempting to just go ahead and build your enclosure without measuring, it’s important that you first measure the exact size of your pool. This will ensure that your enclosure is the correct size for your pool so that it doesn’t leave openings where small children or pets can squeeze through. It’s also important to measure the size of your gate. Taking these measurements now will ensure that your enclosure and gate fit together perfectly. This is especially important for pre-made enclosures as you will want to be sure that your purchased enclosure will fit perfectly.
Step Three: Mark Out the Area of Your Enclosure
Next, you’ll want to mark out the area of your enclosure. You’ll want to make sure that you’re marking out the area of your enclosure that is above ground. This is important because you’ll be digging a trench to bury the bottom of the enclosure. You’ll want to make sure that you leave at least a foot of clearance between the enclosure and the ground to allow for watering, mowing and general maintenance.
Step Four: Build The Frame Of The Enclosure
If you’re building your own enclosure, you’ll want to start by building the frame of your enclosure. The type of enclosure you build will depend on the type of enclosure you’ve decided to use. For example, if you’re using a vinyl-covered wooden fence, you’ll want to build the frame out of wood. You’ll want to make sure that the frame is sturdy enough to support the vinyl fence. You’ll also want to make sure that the enclosure has a taper on each side to make it look more aesthetic.
Step Five: Install Reinforcing Mesh and Bonding Agent
Once you’ve built the frame of your enclosure, you’ll want to install the reinforcing mesh. The mesh is important to strengthen the frame of your enclosure so that it doesn’t sag under the weight of the vinyl fence. You’ll want to make sure that you use a mesh that’s been approved for swimming pool use as this mesh will be in direct contact with the water. You’ll want to use a bonding agent to attach the mesh to the frame.
Step Six: Install Drain Covers and Bumpers
Next, you’ll want to install the drain covers and the bumpers. Drain covers will help prevent leaves and debris from getting caught in the drain and causing a blockage. Bumpers will help to keep the fence in place and prevent it from being pushed out of place by large animals trying to get into the pool.
Step Seven: Install the Fencing
Once you’ve installed the reinforcing mesh and the other parts of your enclosure, you’ll want to install the vinyl fence. Many pre-made pool enclosures will have detailed instructions on how to install the fence. You may also want to bring in a professional installer to install your vinyl fence if you don’t feel comfortable doing it yourself.
Conclusion
There’s no doubt that building a pool enclosure can be a huge project. However, there’s also no doubt that it’s an investment that will pay off. Not only are pool enclosures great for keeping small children and pets out of the pool, but they’re also great for keeping wildlife out of the pool as well. Having a swimming pool is great, but it’s even better when it’s properly fenced-in. So, if you’ve been considering building a DIY pool enclosure, now is the time to do it before summer begins!
