Aluminium pool fences are some of the toughest fences out there. They’re strong, stain resistant and they look good, but every now and then – they do need a good clean. Our climate brings with it many factors that could erode or damage your pool fence over long periods of time. Luckily, giving your pool fence a routine clean every now and then will get rid of anything that could damage it. In this article we’ll cover the most useful tips and tricks for cleaning your pool fence, so you can keep it looking great. But let’s start with the question most people wonder when it comes to cleaning aluminium pool fencing.
How often should you clean your pool fence?
There are a few factors to consider before answering this question, but the most commonly accepted answer is a deep clean every 12 months. This means you’ll be able to get rid of anything that may be stuck to the surface, potentially damaging it over time. Although a deep clean is recommended every 12 months, it’s definitely worth hosing your pool fence down every few months. The salt from rain, as well as the foliage and soil around the foot of your fence can also take effect if left unchecked.
Hose it down
Not only is this the easiest way to clean your pool fence, but if you plan on taking a sponge and some soapy water to it, then housing it down first will get rid of any soil that may scratch your fence when you start rubbing it with the sponge. Hosing your fence down will also get rid of any salty residue that is left by the rain, and anything else that may be sitting on the aluminium. A quick hose down is the perfect way to give your pool fence a quick rinse or to prepare it for a deeper clean.
Cleaning it right
Most people think that to clean anything that’s outdoors, you need a strong cleaning solution and a whole lot of muscle power. Because of this, there are many products on the market that promise they’ll clean anything off of everything. Your aluminium pool fence doesn’t need any of them. Many of those products contain chemicals which can damage aluminium by eating away at the coating over time. All you’ll need to clean your pool fence is some household soap and warm water. Make sure that you don’t use an abrasive brush that could scratch or mark your fence – a normal sponge is perfect.
Avoiding rainfall damage
If your fence sits in puddles of rain, the support beams can get water damage, deteriorate and weaken. To avoid rain puddles, ensure that your garden has effective drainage so that the rainwater can’t collect around the foot of your fence. Another tip is reconsidering the ground cover underneath the fence. More dense ground cover is more likely to retain water, which could damage your fence.
Your pool fence can also get damaged if soil collects on the surface of your fence after a heavy rain that might kick the soil up onto your fence. Periodic cleaning will get rid of this soil and mitigate the chance of water damage.
Fertiliser damage
Many fertilisers contain corrosive substances including ammonium sulphate. Over time, substances like this can be corrosive to your aluminium pool fence. It’s recommended that if you do use fertiliser on your garden, that you hose your fence down to avoid any damage.
Don’t forget the hinges
While you’re looking after your pool fence, it’s easy to overlook the gate. Check that the hinges are secure, and use oil to keep them well-lubricated and moving easily with no creaking.
Gardening
Aluminium pool fencing scratches quite easily if they come into contact with weed-wackers or blades from gardening utensils. Clipping and maintaining foliage and grass around your pool fence will make it look even smarter. So, when you’re cutting or mowing around your fence, make sure that you don’t get too close to the gate itself. For that grass that grows right on the gate, opt for garden shears that will allow you to manually cut the grass, and avoid damaging your fence. If you do happen to scratch your fence, there are specialist paints that can easily cover up scratches and chips.
Proud of your pool fence
You’re proud of your pool, and by using these tips and tricks, you’ll be able to keep your fool fence looking great and be proud of it too. A little extra effort will go a long way in ensuring it looks great, and that it remains undamaged for years to come.
If you’re considering aluminium pool fencing for your home, and are looking for something that will look great and last, then get in touch with ToughGuard today. We specialise in pool fencing that is as pleasing to look at as it is effective in keeping your family safe around the pool. We’re a pioneer in the industry, having designed and installed innovative, patented designed, powder coated safety pool fencing for over 30 years. Speak to us about a ToughGuard20 patented aluminium pool fence today.
