Having a swimming pool in your backyard can be a wonderful addition for relaxation and entertainment. However, owning a pool comes with the responsibility of proper maintenance and safety precautions.
This is especially true if you have decided to install glass pool fencing around your pool. While glass fencing can provide a sleek and modern aesthetic, it does require diligent care and upkeep to keep it looking pristine and functioning properly for safety.
In this article, we will discuss the importance of regular maintenance for pool glass fencing, specific areas to inspect and care for, cleaning tips, when to call in a professional, and how to extend the life of your investment.
Read on to learn key factors in keeping your glass pool barrier in excellent shape.
Safety Should Be Top Priority
The number one reason to stay on top of caring for your glass pool fence is safety. Pool barriers exist to provide an essential layer of protection by restricting unauthorized access. Damaged or faulty gates, loose fittings, cracks in glass panels or deteriorating hardware can allow unintended entry and pose serious risks, especially for unsupervised children. That's why routine checks and fixes are vital. Don't let small issues snowball into compromised safety.
Appearance Matters Too
In addition to security, homeowners with glass pool fences often select this material for the contemporary, elegant look it lends to backyards. So, while safety is paramount, aesthetics are still important. Lack of care can lead to unsightly mineral deposits, corrosion, clouding, scratches and dirt buildup on glass and framework. Stop problems before they start to keep your fence looking as polished as the day it was installed.
Inspect The Entire Fence and Hardware
During regular maintenance walkarounds, start by visually inspecting every inch of glass, from panels to gates to bolts. Check for cracks, loose fittings, missing screws or evidence of rust and corrosion. Gates should swing smoothly without scraping noises. Ensure there is no vegetation or debris obstructing fence operation. The latch should click securely into place without need to slam gates shut.
Target Areas That Collect Dirt and Minerals
Pay special attention to spots where dirt, minerals and other deposits are likely to accumulate. These include:
- Where water droplets cling when getting out of the pool
- Where sprinklers spray fence panels
- Places touched frequently like latches and handles
- At the water line of the pool
- Bottom rails and vertical posts
These areas will need frequent wipe downs before buildup occurs.
Use Soft Cleaning Materials
Never use abrasive brushes or scouring products on glass fencing. The delicate surface is easily scratched. Instead, reach for soft microfiber cloths, sponges, or very fine 0000 steel wool for stubborn stains.
Warm water with a small amount of mild detergent is sufficient for most cleaning needs. Avoid harsh chemicals like bleach, ammonia or acid-based compounds. Read product instructions carefully and spot test before applying to the entire fence.
Rinse Thoroughly After Cleaning
It's critical to rinse away all soapy residue completely after washing down fence panels. Leftover film will simply reattract dirt rapidly. You want water to sheet cleanly off the glass without beading up. This helps the glass stay cleaner longer after putting in the hard work to make it sparkle.
Be Careful With Power Washers
While using a power washer can blast away some built-up gunk, this tool can easily damage glass fencing if not handled with care. The high-powered spray can etch the surface leading to a perpetually cloudy appearance.
Also, leaked water can get places it doesn't belong, wearing out hidden components prematurely. Consider power washing only as a last resort for extremely dirty fences.
Reseal Any Chips Immediately
If you notice a nick or chip in glass panel, address this right away before it grows into a more serious problem. Carefully sand and clean fractures, then seal with a compatible waterproof epoxy resin specifically made for glass repair. Left untreated, damage can spiderweb across panels or allow water intrusion leading to corrosion, mold and breaks.
Watch For Signs of Deterioration
Rust, clouding, flaking and pits in metal framework or hardware requires intervention to halt further decline. Remove any unsightly oxidation, then protect freshly exposed areas with touch up paint.
Pitted or flaky coating may need complete stripping and reapplication of protective finishing. It's smart to add extra weather protection like silicone lubricant to metal components near ocean pools exposed to salty coastal moisture and ongoing fog.
Consider Glass Coatings for Added Protection
Advanced glass coatings act like a shield to make cleaning easier while enhancing shine and durability. Products like Rain-X or Nanolex form an invisible barrier that allows water, dirt and debris to slide right off with minimal effort. This prevents buildup and etching to keep fence glass pristine longer between cleanings. Coatings generally last 6-12 months and are simple for DIY application.
Know When to Call A Professional
For most routine maintenance like wiping, washing and inspection, DIY is perfectly adequate. However, some issues warrant bringing in the experts before things spin out of control.
Any evidence of:
- Security compromise or gate failure
- Major cracks or breakage
- Loose posts, broken hardware or major corrosion
Pool barrier compliance concerns requires pro troubleshooting and repairs to avoid problems down the line.
Don't take chances with safety or large-scale deterioration. The investment in professional service pays dividends over the long run.
Consistency Is Key
Like any other surface exposed to outdoor elements and constant use, the only way to stay ahead of dirt, wear and tear is making fence upkeep a regular routine. An annual deep clean is not enough. Experts recommend a quick inspection plus wipe down every 2-4 weeks. Scrub glass panels thoroughly every 3-6 months with appropriate mild cleanser and soft brush. Address any minor flaws immediately to prevent escalation.
Like any other surface exposed to outdoor elements and constant use, the only way to stay ahead of dirt, wear and tear is making fence upkeep a regular routine. An annual deep clean is not enough. Experts recommend a quick inspection plus wipe down every 2-4 weeks. Scrub glass panels thoroughly every 3-6 months with appropriate mild cleanser and soft brush. Address any minor flaws immediately to prevent escalation.
By incorporating glass fence care into your regular maintenance schedule, you'll enjoy years of optimum safety, function and beauty enhancements for your backyard retreat. Don't wait for problems to appear - prevent them in the first place with diligent attention. Give your glass pool barrier the TLC it deserves as both a safety and aesthetic focal point through conscientious upkeep. The time invested will reward you many times over!
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