The answer is yes.
There are several situations when installation in soil is requested including: planters, grass, slope (hillsides), and artificial turf.
Installation of pool fence that passes through a planter to connect to a perimeter fence does not typically require special preparation beyond making sure bushes and other plantings do not impede the area where the fence is designed to be installed. Our Technicians can install a device to receive our pole in the dirt section. This method works well for short distances. Unless special measures are taken, like pouring a concrete curb, the fence should be installed in a straight line from the deck to the perimeter fence.
Pouring a concrete curb is recommended, even required for best results, when fence is to be installed over a longer distance. The reason is that posts installed directly into soil settle and sag over time making the fence look bad and possibly even creating safety concerns if neglected. All it takes is the first solid rain for the soil to soften and allow the fence to become loose if installed over long distances. For this reason, we recommend short distances when our fence transitions from primarily being installed in the deck to a small portion of soil. That way the fence is strong at the deck, supported in the soil, and has a strong attachment point by the perimeter fence. Having two strong points in close proximity, coupled with the attachment method we use in short soil distances, makes it safe.
We are often asked if fence can be installed through grass. While some companies might be willing to do it to get a job, it is not recommended without installing a curb. The first problem is the sagging mentioned above because it is watered to maintain the grass, which causes the soil to soften, loosen, and fence poles to eventually lean causing the fence mesh to sag. The next problem is maintenance because grass grows so either someone will have to use a grass trimmer along the fence line, which will damage and even ruin the fence when they hit it with the trimming coil, or the fence will have to be taken down during lawn maintenance. Neither scenario is good; in the first, the fence may need to be replaced and in the second, the fence is removed so safety is diminished during that time. What if the person doing the work forgets to put the fence back in place or they take a break and decide it’s fine if the fence isn’t deployed while they take some personal time? Using a concrete curb in grass enables maintenance because our fence is installed on top of the curb so trimming can be done along the side of the curb, allowing lawn care while protecting the fence, and thus, protecting the family.
Installation of removable pool fence on hillsides is difficult and not always possible or desirable. While it can be done in many instances, it is not always best so you should discuss it with our Safety Consultant.
Artificial turf is growing in popularity, especially in places where water is scarce. Even in places where water is abundant, turf is preferred by some because there is no maintenance or watering required to keep it looking nice. We sometimes have customers ask about installing in or through turf. These questions require more detailed information and consideration, so we recommend you discuss it with us if this is your preference. If you haven’t done it yet, we can plan ahead and help ensure the best outcome.
