If your pool area isn’t perfectly flat, you’ve probably already asked yourself this:

“Will frameless glass even work here?”

Slopes, steps, retaining walls, raised pools, split levels… most backyards aren’t neat rectangles. And a lot of people assume frameless glass only works on perfectly level concrete.

That assumption costs them a better result.

Let’s clear this up properly.

The short answer

Yes.
Frameless glass pool fencing can absolutely be installed on sloping or uneven ground.

But it needs to be designed correctly.

This is not a one size fits all system, and this is where experience matters far more than the product itself.

Why uneven ground makes people nervous

Most concern comes from three things:

• Fear that gaps will exceed compliance limits

• Worry that glass panels won’t align cleanly

• Concern that the fence won’t feel solid or safe

Those are valid concerns. They’re just not unsolvable ones.

How frameless glass adapts to uneven surfaces

Frameless systems are more flexible than people realise.

Installers can work with:

• Gradual slopes

• Stepped levels

• Raised pool walls

• Split concrete slabs

• Mixed surfaces like concrete and decking

The solution depends on the layout, not a generic rule.

Common solutions used on sloping sites

Stepped glass panels

Instead of forcing glass to follow a slope, panels are installed in stepped sections.

This keeps:

• Panel heights compliant

• Gaps within regulation

• The fence looking clean and intentional

Stepping is one of the most common and effective solutions.

Varying panel heights

In some cases, panels are custom sized so the top line of the fence remains consistent while accommodating ground changes below.

This requires precise measuring and planning but delivers an excellent visual result.

Core drilling at different depths

When ground levels change, spigots may be set at different depths to keep panels level and secure.

This is invisible once installed, but critical to stability and compliance.

Integration with retaining walls or raised edges

Raised pools or retaining walls can sometimes form part of the barrier.

When designed correctly, glass panels can be installed on top of these structures, reducing the need for additional fencing while remaining compliant.

Compliance still comes first

No matter how uneven the site is, Australian pool fencing regulations still apply.

That means:

• Maximum allowable gaps must be maintained

• Fence height requirements must be met

• Gates must still self close and self latch

• Climbable zones must be eliminated

Design flexibility never overrides safety rules.

Where problems usually happen

Issues arise when installers try to:

• Force standard panel sizes onto non standard ground

• Rush layout planning

• Avoid custom glass to save cost

• Skip proper compliance assessment

This is how you end up with awkward gaps, poor alignment, or non compliant sections.

Is frameless glass harder to install on slopes?

It requires more planning, not necessarily more difficulty.

Uneven sites demand:

• Better measurement

• More design input

• Custom panel sizing

• Experienced installers

That’s why quotes can vary significantly for sloping installations.

The extra work is in the thinking, not the labour.

Does installing on a slope cost more?

Often, yes.

Additional cost may come from:

• Custom glass sizes

• Extra planning and layout time

• More complex fixing methods

However, this cost is usually modest compared to the overall project and far outweighed by the finished result.

Why frameless glass still works beautifully on uneven ground

When done properly, frameless glass on a sloping site:

• Looks intentional, not compromised

• Maintains clean sightlines

• Enhances complex landscapes

• Avoids bulky workarounds

In many cases, it actually highlights good landscaping rather than fighting it.

What you should ask before committing

If your site isn’t flat, ask:

• How will the slope be handled?

• Will panels be stepped or custom sized?

• How is compliance maintained across level changes?

• Has this type of installation been done before?

Clear answers here are essential.

Final thoughts

Uneven ground is not a reason to rule out frameless glass pool fencing.

It just means the design needs to be thoughtful and the installation needs to be done properly.

With the right approach, complex sites often produce the best results.