Best Kind Of Fencing For Your Home

16.jpeg

Installing quality fencing around your Tauranga home can be very beneficial to you and your family. Your fence will not only serve as a boundary marking for your property, but it will also provide privacy, security, sound mitigation, wind protection and even enhanced aesthetics to your property. But it’s worth noting that you’ll realise these benefits and more only if you choose the right kind of fencing for your home. To help you do this, we’ve prepared a short guide on fencing options in Tauranga, NZ.

Choosing the Best Fencing for Your Tauranga Home

The most common types of fencing in Tauranga are: wood, aluminium, steel, stone/concrete, and vinyl/PVC. Each of these materials has its own pros and cons and you need to weigh these before you decide.

Wood fencing not only offers that beautiful natural appearance, but is also very versatile and the best option when it comes to implementing custom designs and decorations. This type of fencing can be cheap or expensive depending on the timber and the installer; but its main disadvantage is its need for regular (yearly) maintenance and the fact that it weathers easily and may suffer damage due to insects, rot and weather.

Aluminium fencing Tauranga is lightweight and much cheaper than steel and wrought iron. This form of fencing tends to be good looking and doesn’t corrode. It has become a popular option for temporary fencing around construction sites, and can be a great choice for pool fencing. However, its lightweight nature means that it may not be a good choice if you’re looking for a security fence.

High-tensile steel fencing is sturdy and adaptable, and is naturally the most durable choice. This type of fencing is also quite versatile and can be shaped and custom designed to complement your home. What’s more, steel fencing is aesthetically appealing and a great option for decorative purposes. The only problem is its initial cost of installation, which is typically higher than that of other forms of fencing.

Stone, brick or concrete fencing is another popular option that you can implement in your home. These materials are some of the most durable and aesthetically pleasing that you could ever find; and a well-designed stone, brick or concrete fencing can really boost the look and value of your home. This type of fencing is also very good at providing privacy, security, and noise mitigation. However, building one can be expensive and labour intensive.

Vinyl/PVC fencing is a low maintenance fence option that can be custom designed to imitate wood or other material. Vinyl and composite come in numerous hues to complement any home and will never require painting. These materials are child friendly, easy to clean, and won’t split, crack or rot or become damaged due to insects or weather. They are also fire resistant. Nonetheless, vinyl fencing tends to cost more upfront than wood and its brittle nature means it’s liable to damage. The fact that you cannot alter its appearance once installed may also prove to be a huge disadvantage.

Aside from the fence material and cost, you should consider several other factors including your goals, budget, local zoning codes and the gates you want to install. What is your main goal – privacy, security, or aesthetic appeal? What is your budget? What do local building regulations require in terms fencing? Will the gates that you want to install match and/or complement your fence? You need to consider this when looking for glass balustrades in Tauranga.

Make sure you choose gates that match your fencing style. Electronic gates Tauranga options can be a great asset to invest in. Not only do they add style and value to your home, but they can also ensure your family or business is safe whilst giving you a strong sense of security. Automated gates Tauranga fixtures allow you to open or close your gate while enjoying the convenience of staying in your vehicle. They can be a great choice if you’re less mobile (due to disability), or if you live on a busy street.

Tauranga Balustrades & Gates: Custom Automated Electric Gates and Aluminium Fencing In Tauranga

Tauranga Balustrades & Gates manufactures supplies and installs high-quality, durable and safe balustrades, aluminium fencing, electric automated gates, security fences and pool fences for both domestic and commercial applications in Tauranga. All our aluminium Tauranga installations, automated gates Tauranga and electronic gates Tauranga security fixtures are custom designed to suit your needs and location – no matter the size or shape. To talk through the styles and designs that are best for your property, call one of our experts today. Visit our websites at www.balustradesandgatestauranga.co.nz for more details.

5 Tips for Getting Your Pool Ready for the Summer

pexels-photo-121801

Opening a pool for the hot New Zealand summer should be a low-stress event for the whole family. As long as the householder does some winter prep by covering the pump and pool, opening day should be trouble-free. Below are several tips on preparing your Tauranga pool for a season of summer sun!

Remove Leaves and Other Debris

Upon cleaning a pool before summer, a householder may find dirt, leaves, and other buildups in the area. Before removing a pool cover, remove debris from the deck and the cover itself. If there is water on the pool cover, pump it out to prevent it from contaminating the pool.

Take Off the Cover

Once the cover is removed, it should be cleaned and dried before storage. If there is enough room, spread the cover and rinse it thoroughly before allowing it to dry. Before storing it, sprinkle a bit of talcum powder to prevent sticking or binding. Be sure to store the pool cover in the coolest area possible.

Check the Pool’s Water Level

The next step is to check the water level in the skimmer. For the pool pump to work correctly, the water should be up to the middle of the skimmer’s opening. Add water if necessary, and check ladders, diving boards, slides, handrails, and glass pool fencing Tauranga for loose fasteners and other unsafe conditions.

Check the Water pH

After the pump has run for at least eight hours, the householder should check the water’s alkalinity, hardness, and pH level. Collect the sample in an area away from the pump’s inlet, and test the water according to the directions given with the test kit. Add chemicals in the correct order to bring the water to the proper balance.

Assess Safety Measures and Supplies

The final step is to check all safety and support items for pool safety. Every pool should have a fully stocked first-aid kit, and cleaning equipment should be in good condition. Gates and latches should be secured to prevent unauthorised access during times when the pool is not in use. Pool fencing or safety gates are a local authority specified requirement for all pool owners. If you are unsure if your pool meets the necessary requirements just contact Tauranga Balustrades and Gates. They can help you decide what type of gate, fencing or balustrades work best for the size of your pool. Contact them on www.balustradesandgatestauranga.co.nz for more information and get the safest, most styish fencing for your Tauranga pool.

NZ Fencing Requirements if You Have a Pool on Your Property

photo97.jpeg

There are rules and regulations that apply to pools and their fencing requirements across New Zealand. The Fencing of Swimming Pools Act (FOSPA) sets out the guidelines which are then enforced by local councils. Most councils will have a guide or code of practice you can refer to for any specific requirements by that council. In some cases, for instance if you are putting in a new pool you will require building permission or council consent before you can even start work. 

Is a spa pool a pool?

Yes if the water depth can exceed 40cm (400mm) then a spa pool is considered a pool for regulatory purposes. Spa pool owners can apply for exemptions to pool fencing requirements in some instances. Refer to your local council for specific information and advice on heights and lockable lid guidelines.

Regulations for Pools

The FOSPA has been in effect since 1987. In 2006 New Zealand Standard released NZS8500:2006 which is aimed to replace the section in the act specifically regarding spa pools. Local councils can use these guidelines when considering an exemption application, but interpretation can and does vary. Note that at the time of writing this act change/amendment is still undergoing the parliament process for change. So if you are in Tauranga, contact the Tauranga city council for advice.

Why fence?

Since the FOSPA was introduced the number of toddler deaths associated with private pools and spa pools has reduced from an average of 11.5 per annum to 3. Note also that pool ownership has increased in this time period by 30% so the act has achieved its aim to reduce the number of preventable toddler deaths due to drowning. Adult supervision and education cannot be relied upon alone to protect young children.

Who’s responsibility?

The pool owner is responsible for ensuring the fencing meets council requirements. If you rent a home with a pool supplied then the landlord is responsible. If as tenants you install a portable spa pool or above ground pool (with landlord permission of course) then you will be responsible for ensuring your pool is compliant with fencing regulations. If you buy a home with a pool it is your responsibility to make sure the pool and fencing are compliant with council regulations.

Are any pools exempt from fencing?

Yes, in 5 instances your pool may be exempt from having to be fenced 

1. If an above ground pool has a wall 1.2m or higher then it is exempt provided there are no permanent ladders or steps.

2. If the maximum depth of water in the pool cannot exceed 40cm or 400mm then a fence is not required – this may apply to many inflatable or temporary ‘backyard paddling pools’

3. A pool that is located within a building, where that building has more purposes than to just house a pool it may be exempt – check with your council for specifics

4. If a pool has paid employee supervision and is secured behind locked gates at all other times then that pool may also be exempt from fencing regulations.
5. A spa pool that meets the guidelines of the NZ standards NZS8500:2006 may also be exempt

Having established that your pool requires a fence it would be advisable to contact a registered and professional fence company who specialise in pool fences in Tauranga such as Tauranga Balustrades & Gates. The main reason is because there are many detailed requirements regarding height, various dimensions of construction and also materials that can be used for pool security fencing in Tauranga.Glass pool fencing in Tauranga is popular to allow visibility with security. Visit www.balustradesandgatestauranga.co.nz for images and to contact for a quote.

Contact our friendly team at Tauranga Balustrades & Gates to make a booking!