When it comes to ensuring the safety of your loved ones around the swimming pool, a pool fence is not just a legal requirement; it’s a crucial investment. But how much does it really cost to install one?

The cost to install a pool fence ranges from $1,000 to $20,000. 

You can have wood, chain-link, and mesh run installed on the lower end of the price range, while you can get tempered glass for a pool fence on the higher end of that range.

For a better estimate of the installation cost for your pool fence, here are the details of the factors that affect the overall cost and some potential additional expenses you might have to pay.

Factors That Affect the Cost of a Pool Fence Installation

Materials

When it comes to pool fence installations, the choice of materials significantly influences both the aesthetics and cost considerations. Let’s take a look at the various materials commonly used for pool fences with their key factors:

Wood

Wood pool fencing is a stylistic choice prioritizing privacy and aesthetics over safety since they can be easily climbed by children. 

There are various styles and sizes available, and the price ranges from $3 to $30 per linear foot depending on the type of wood, style, and pattern. 

While they offer a lovely aesthetic at a reasonable price, wood fences come with additional maintenance costs in the long run including cleaning and staining.

Black Chain Link

For a functional and cost-effective solution, black chain link fencing comes in at a price range of $5 to $12 per linear foot. 

It’s best to opt for a vinyl-coated black finish since they tend to show rust and corrosion, although it adds to the overall cost. 

While children are also likely able to climb this type of fence, the affordability of the black chain link makes it a popular choice.

Mesh

Mesh pool fences are a secure option with costs ranging between $7 and $10 per linear foot. 

This material is particularly effective in preventing children from climbing over, thanks to the absence of holes or slats that could serve as footholds. 

The flexibility to design mesh fences as removable is very practical which allows free access to the pool area when necessary. Additionally, mesh pool fences tend to be relatively low-maintenance, making them a cost-effective choice over time.

Galvanized Steel

Galvanized steel is another affordable choice for pool fencing, with installation costs ranging from $7 to $20 per linear foot. 

The design options, such as multiple bars or perforated sheets, make this material both functional and visually appealing for those seeking a balance between cost and aesthetics.

Vinyl

Vinyl pool fencing is a great option for those looking to match the design with existing vinyl property fences, and it costs from $15 to $20 per linear foot. Its advantages include enhanced privacy, especially when built to full height. 

However, there can be safety concerns for homes with kids since this material can easily be climbed by children. Damaged sections of the pool fence may also make it necessary to replace the entire panel.

Plexiglass

Plexiglass fencing is a sturdy and cheaper alternative to glass and is priced between $20 and $30 per linear foot. It’s a cost-effective option, but this material may develop cloudiness or yellowing over time. 

Despite this, plexiglass is still an attractive choice for those seeking durability and a transparent barrier around the pool.

Wrought Iron

Wrought iron fencing can add a high-end aesthetic to pool surroundings and is priced between $20 and $35 per linear foot. However, it’s not the safest option for families with young children since it is easy to climb.

Tempered Glass

As one of the most expensive options, tempered glass pool fences come at a cost between $100 and $600 per linear foot. 

It may come with a high expense, but this material provides safety since children can’t climb them, and an unobstructed view of the pool area. Also, this feature of the house can increase the home value. 

Just be sure to regularly clean this fence to maintain visibility since splashes or smudges tend to show on the glass.

Size and Shape of Your Pool

The size and shape of your pool greatly affect the cost of installing a pool fence. If you have a huge pool, you’ll need more materials for a fence, resulting in increased costs.

For example, a 100-linear-foot pool fence may cost around $2,000, while a more extensive 300-linear-foot fence could amount to approximately $6,000.

The shape of your pool is another factor that affects the overall cost of the fence installation. Standard rectangular pools are generally more cost-effective to fence due to their simplicity. 

However, if your pool features curved edges or a different shape, going for a fence that follows these shapes could mean additional costs. 

The intricacies of the pool shape can affect both the material requirements and the complexity of the installation process, which explains the increase in the overall cost of your pool fence.

Above-Ground or Inground Pool

The type of pool—whether it’s above-ground or inground—significantly affects the expenses. 

In most cases, you’ll find pool fences surrounding inground pools as a safety measure to prevent accidental falls for both children and pets. Inground pools typically require a minimum four-foot fence, although heights may vary. 

On the other hand, above-ground pools have a lower risk of children and pets falling, and their fences are usually installed directly on the pool’s edge. 

The minimum required heights for above-ground pool fences are typically two to three feet which results in less material needs and therefore reduces costs.

Labor

The cost of installing a pool fence is significantly influenced by labor expenses, which typically range from $30 to $80 per hour. 

A pool fence company generally sends a team of at least two employees to complete the installation. The time to complete the job varies based on the pool’s size but typically takes at least half a day.

Type of Gate

The type of gate chosen for a pool fence significantly affects both safety and cost. Local regulations often dictate whether a gate should lock, and homeowners are advised to check these regulations. 

Ideally, a pool gate should open away from the pool area, and the latch should be positioned out of reach for small children. 

A self-closing gate is best for enhanced safety, especially when the goal is to keep kids and pets out of the pool when unsupervised. The average costs for these gates range from $200 to $500 for non-glass options and can go up to $1,000 for glass gates.

Additional Costs That May Be Incurred

Height

The height of your pool fence is another factor that can influence both the cost of materials and the overall expenses of the installation. 

Opting for a standard 48- or 60-inch fence which is available in prefabricated panels is a more cost-effective choice. Increasing the fence height can result in a 20% higher cost for fencing materials.

Color

When it comes to pool fence aesthetics, the choice of color can add additional costs to your project. 

Most standard colors are usually included in the base price of the chosen material. However, if you want custom colors or unique finishes—such as a veined copper powder-coated finish for a metal fence—be prepared for an extra charge. 

Posts

Choosing the right posts for your pool fence involves considering materials like aluminum and fiberglass. 

Aluminum posts are common for their affordability, low maintenance, versatility, and eco-friendliness. However, their downside is the difficulty in fixing bent posts, which often necessitates replacement. 

On the other hand, fiberglass posts are more durable and can last up to 30 years with minimal maintenance. Less common options such as PVC and wood posts are also available.

Pool Net Addition

In addition to a pool fence, another safety option is a pool net. Unlike a fence that surrounds the pool vertically, a pool net is a mesh that is anchored to the edges of the pool and stretched horizontally across the top. 

This configuration adds an extra layer of security and is typically priced between $1,500 and $2,500. It’s important to note that pool nets need to be removed before each use of the pool which adds some work before you can go swimming.

Concrete Work

A concrete slab serves as the foundation for the pool fence and typically costs between $4 to $8 per square foot. It not only provides stability and durability but also creates an even elevation and a high-quality, professional finish. 

If you want to install the pool fence directly into the soil, it can lead to a significant increase in labor costs. 

With installation labor costs ranging from $60 to $80 per hour, the decision not to use concrete may result in additional expenses of about an extra $640 for every day of extended labor required. 

While concrete adds to the initial material cost, it adds to the structural stability and durability of the pool fence which is a great investment in the long term.

Cost-Saving Tips

Here are some practical ways to reduce pool fence installation costs: 

• Choose budget-friendly materials: Choose cost-effective materials instead of premium options to stay within your budget. Be sure to prioritize functionality and durability over luxury features to minimize expenses.

• Go for shorter fences: Follow local regulations while going for the shortest fence possible. 

• Do some of the work yourself: Save on labor costs by taking on some of the preparatory work yourself like demolition or site preparation.

• Get multiple quotes: Ask for quotes from multiple fencing contractors to compare prices. This allows you to identify competitive offers and potentially negotiate a more favorable deal.

• Ask about extra materials: Check with your contractor if they have any available deals on excess materials. If they do, you might get them for a lower price and therefore save you some money.

• Schedule installation during the off-season: Choose a time when fewer people want fences, like early spring or late fall. Labor costs may become more competitive which can result in savings for your project.