If you’re planning a frameless glass pool fence, there’s one small component doing the heavy lifting — and that’s the spigot.

It’s the clean, modern bracket at the base of every glass panel, and it’s what gives frameless fencing its floating, minimal look — while also keeping the panels rock-solid and compliant.

At Glass House AU, we supply high-grade stainless steel spigots for pool fencing that are built to meet Australian Standards and look sharp for years.

Here’s everything you need to know about pool fence spigots before you install.

What Exactly Is a Spigot?

A spigot is the clamp or fixing bracket that supports a frameless glass panel from below. Instead of using posts or rails, frameless systems rely on these small (but mighty) supports at the base of each panel.

They’re designed to:

• Hold toughened safety glass securely

• Maintain clean sightlines and minimal hardware

• Be compliant with wind load and pool safety regulations

Spigots are the unsung heroes of modern pool fencing — doing the structural work while staying nearly invisible.

Depending on your install surface, you’ll choose between core-drilled or base plate spigots.

Base Plate vs Core Drill: What’s the Difference?

Base Plate Spigots

These are surface-mounted and bolted into a concrete slab, tile, or decking.

• Easy to install

• Great for DIY

• Can be removed or replaced easily

• Compatible with chemical or mechanical anchors

Base plate spigots are perfect for:

• Renovations where you can’t alter the slab

• Areas where you want quick access underneath

• Tiled or timber-decked pool surrounds

Core Drill Spigots

These are recessed into holes cored into your concrete, then fixed with non-shrink grout.

• Stronger structural hold

• Cleaner look (no base plate showing)

• Better for high-wind areas or sloped terrain

• Requires wet core drilling tools

Core-drilled spigots are ideal for:

• New builds or major renovations

• Premium aesthetic outcomes

• When maximum strength and seamless finish is required

What Materials Should You Look For?

Most quality spigots are made from 316 or 2205 stainless steel — both of which offer excellent corrosion resistance, especially around pools.

• 316 stainless steel is the go-to standard for most installations. It’s rust-resistant and durable.

• 2205 duplex stainless steel is even tougher. It has superior corrosion resistance and is perfect for coastal properties where salt exposure is constant.

If you live within 5–10km of the ocean or use saltwater chlorination in your pool, we strongly recommend investing in 2205-grade stainless.

What Finishes Are Available?

Spigots don’t have to be silver. The finish you choose can transform your fence from basic to bold.

Popular finishes include:

• Satin finish: Brushed stainless, hides fingerprints well

• Polished finish: Mirror-shine for a sleek, modern look

• Matt black: Powder-coated, very on-trend for contemporary homes

• Matt white: Powder-coated, very on-trend for contemporary homes

• Custom powder-coated colours: Available by request to match fencing or architectural palettes

Choose a finish that matches or complements:

• Pool gate hardware

• Outdoor furniture or lighting

• Decking colours or tile trims

Do Spigots Need to Be Earthed?

Yes — in some situations.

If your spigots are metallic and within 1.25m of the pool edge, they may need to be earthed under AS/NZS 3000 wiring rules.

This is to prevent electric shock in the rare case of a live current touching the water or surrounding metal.

Want to avoid the hassle? Use Insuluxe (non-conductive) spigots, made from reinforced polymer. They look like stainless, perform like stainless, and don’t require earthing.

Perfect for:

• DIY installs

• Remote locations

• Fast council sign-off

How Many Spigots Per Panel?

Typically, two spigots per glass panel is the standard. But there are exceptions:

• 2 spigots per panel up to 2000mm wide from Glass House AU

• For windy areas: closer spacing may be required

At Glass House AU, we can provide spacing guides and layout suggestions tailored to your project.

Are Spigots DIY-Friendly?

Yes — especially base plate spigots.

If you:

• Have a hammer drill and masonry bits

• Can measure and level accurately

• Use epoxy or approved anchors properly

…you can absolutely DIY a frameless pool fence using spigots.

We supply full kits with bolts, covers, instructions, and even cleaning cloths.

However, for core-drilled installs, we recommend hiring or purchasing a diamond-core drill rig. It’s fast, precise, and ensures your grout bonds perfectly.

Planning Tips Before You Buy

1. Know your substrate: Concrete, tiles, pavers, or timber? Your fixings will depend on it.

2. Choose your spigot type: Base plate for above-ground, core drill for inset installs.

3. Match your finish: Don’t mix matte black and polished silver unless it’s intentional.

4. Order a layout plan: We can help map out spacing, heights, and gate integration.

5. Check for electrical compliance: If using metal spigots near the pool, get advice from an electrician.

Caring for Your Spigots

Good spigots should last over 20 years — but only if you look after them.

Here’s how:

• Rinse with fresh water monthly, especially if near the coast

• Wipe with a microfibre cloth to prevent tea staining

• Don’t use acidic or abrasive cleaners

• Touch up powder-coated finishes if scratched

• Check fixings annually and re-tighten if needed

At Glass House AU, we use high-grade fasteners, corrosion-resistant coatings, and industry-best engineering to make maintenance easy.

Real Examples From Our Customers

• Megan in Mornington used matte black base plate spigots on her timber deck to contrast with her spotted gum screening. The result? “The cleanest-looking fence I’ve ever seen.”

• James in Byron Bay went with 2205 polished core-drilled spigots for his new pool build. “We’re right on the beach and nothing’s rusting — worth every cent.”

• Sarah in Brisbane used our Insuluxe spigots to avoid earthing and fast-track her pool fence approval. “Council signed off first inspection — no issues at all.”

Final Word: Small Part, Big Job

The right spigot does more than hold up a panel. It ensures your entire frameless pool fence:

• Looks clean and modern

• Meets safety regulations

• Handles wind, kids, and weather without fail

At Glass House AU, we stock only compliant, durable pool fence spigots in a range of finishes — ready for DIYers, tradies and installers.

👉 Shop our full range online or chat with our team to get expert advice on your next project.

Whether you’re after sleek matte black, premium polished, or no-earth composite — we’ve got the gear that holds your fence (and your peace of mind) in place.