If your pool area isn’t perfectly flat, you’re not alone.

Most Australian backyards have some level of slope, step, retaining wall, or uneven surface. And for many homeowners, that creates an immediate assumption:

“Frameless glass probably won’t work here.”

In reality, that assumption is one of the most common reasons people unnecessarily compromise on their pool fencing choice.

So let’s clear this up properly.

The short, honest answer

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

However, it must be:

• Designed specifically for the site

• Measured accurately

• Installed by people who understand both compliance and construction

This is not a system you force onto a surface. It’s one you design around it.

Why uneven ground creates doubt

Sloping or uneven ground introduces uncertainty, especially for homeowners who haven’t seen these installations done before.

Common concerns include:

• Will gaps exceed compliance limits?

• Will the fence still feel solid and secure?

• Will the glass look awkward or uneven?

• Will the installation cost blow out?

These are valid concerns. They just don’t mean frameless glass isn’t an option.

Understanding the compliance challenge

Australian pool fencing regulations don’t change just because the ground does.

No matter the slope, a compliant fence must still:

• Meet minimum height requirements

• Maintain maximum allowable gaps

• Eliminate climbable zones

• Use compliant gates and latches

The challenge on uneven ground is maintaining compliance while adapting to the terrain.

That’s where design and experience matter most.

How frameless glass systems adapt to uneven ground

Frameless glass fencing is more flexible than people expect because each panel is independent.

Unlike fixed framed systems, frameless installations allow installers to:

• Adjust panel heights

• Step panels incrementally

• Custom size glass

• Vary fixing depths

This adaptability is exactly what makes frameless glass suitable for complex sites.

The most common installation methods on sloping sites

Stepped panel installations

This is the most widely used solution.

Instead of trying to follow the slope, panels are installed in stepped sections. Each panel remains level, and height differences are absorbed between panels.

This approach:

• Maintains consistent fence height

• Keeps gaps within regulation

• Looks deliberate and architectural

• Avoids awkward angles

When done well, stepped panels look clean and intentional, not compromised.

Custom sized glass panels

In some layouts, especially where the slope is gradual, panels can be custom sized to maintain a consistent top line while adapting below.

This requires:

• Precise site measurement

• Custom glass manufacturing

• Careful planning during layout

It costs more than standard panels, but the visual result is often outstanding.

Variable spigot fixing depths

Spigots are set into the ground at varying depths to accommodate changes in height.

This allows panels to remain level even when the surface beneath them changes.

It’s a subtle adjustment that has a big impact on stability and appearance.

Installation on retaining walls or raised edges

Many pools sit against retaining walls or raised structures.

In these cases, glass panels can often be installed directly on top of those elements, effectively using them as part of the barrier.

When designed correctly, this can:

• Reduce the total length of fencing required

• Improve sightlines

• Create a cleaner overall look

Compliance still applies, but smart integration can simplify the solution.

What surfaces can frameless glass be installed on?

Frameless glass fencing can be installed on a wide range of surfaces, including:

• Concrete slabs

• Exposed aggregate

• Tiled pool surrounds

• Pavers

• Timber decking

• Mixed surfaces

Each surface requires a different fixing approach, and uneven ground often involves a combination of surfaces.

This is why site inspection matters.

Where problems usually occur

Issues arise when installers try to:

• Use standard panel sizes on non standard ground

• Avoid custom work to keep quotes low

• Skip detailed layout planning

• Rush installation

This often results in:

• Inconsistent gaps

• Panels that feel unstable

• Gates that don’t operate correctly

• Non compliant sections

These problems aren’t caused by the slope. They’re caused by poor planning.

Does uneven ground increase cost?

Often, yes. But not always significantly.

Additional cost may come from:

• Custom glass sizes

• Extra measurement and design time

• More complex fixing methods

• Additional labour for precision work

However, this cost is usually minor compared to the overall project and far cheaper than retrofitting or fixing compliance issues later.

Is frameless glass still the best option on a slope?

In many cases, yes.

On sloping sites, frameless glass often:

• Looks cleaner than framed alternatives

• Avoids bulky posts that exaggerate unevenness

• Enhances landscaping rather than fighting it

• Preserves views across varied terrain

Framed systems can sometimes draw attention to height changes, while frameless glass minimises visual disruption.

What you should ask before committing

If your pool area is uneven, ask these questions before choosing an installer:

• How will the slope be handled in the design?

• Will panels be stepped or custom sized?

• How is compliance maintained across level changes?

• What experience do you have with similar sites?

• Will gate operation remain reliable long term?

Clear, confident answers are a good indicator you’re dealing with professionals.

Why experience matters more on uneven sites

Flat, simple installations are forgiving.

Uneven sites are not.

They require:

• Better judgement

• More accurate measurement

• Strong understanding of compliance

• Attention to long term performance

This is where experienced installers stand out.

Final thoughts

Uneven ground is not a limitation.
It’s simply a design consideration.

Frameless glass pool fencing can be installed on sloping or uneven ground safely, compliantly, and beautifully when it’s planned and executed properly.

The biggest risk isn’t the terrain.
It’s assuming a standard solution will work everywhere.

Unsure if your site is suitable?

A proper site assessment can quickly determine the best approach and prevent unnecessary compromises.

Good design upfront leads to a result you’ll be happy with for years.