If you’ve ever Googled “pool fencing ideas” and come away more confused than when you started — you’re not alone.

Frameless. Semi-frameless. Aluminium. Powder-coated. Posts. Panels. Spigots. Hinges.

All you wanted was a safe fence that doesn’t ruin the backyard vibes.

This article will finally clear the air. We’ll walk you through the difference between frameless, semi-frameless, and aluminium pool fencing — from looks and price, to safety and maintenance.

By the end of this, you’ll know exactly which one is right for your pool. Let’s dive in.

First Things First: All Pool Fences Must Be Compliant

Before we get into styles, let’s state the obvious:

No matter what type of fencing you choose — it needs to meet Australian pool safety standards (AS1926.1).

That means:

• A minimum height of 1200mm

• No gaps larger than 100mm

• Gates must be self-closing and self-latching

• Latches at least 1500mm above the ground or on the inside of the glass gate

• Non-climbable zone of 900mm around the fence

So whether you’re installing glass, aluminium, or something in between — the layout matters as much as the material.

Frameless Glass Pool Fencing

This is the cleanest, sleekest, and most high-end pool fencing option.

Frameless glass fencing is made from toughened safety glass (usually 12mm thick) and supported by small stainless steel spigots at the base. There are no posts between panels, giving the illusion of a floating glass wall.

Why people love it:

• Uninterrupted views of the pool

• Makes the space feel bigger and more open

• Clean, minimal look that matches any backyard style

Ideal for:

• Luxury homes

• Coastal properties

• Designer backyards with landscaping or water features

Pros:

• Looks incredible

• Doesn’t block light or views

• Adds resale value to your home

Cons:

• More confidence needed with installation.

Maintenance: Wipe down with glass cleaner or warm soapy water weekly. Use a squeegee after rain for that just-cleaned look.
Installation complexity: High. Best installed by professionals or very handy DIYers.
Price Range: $$$

Semi-Frameless Glass Pool Fencing

Semi-frameless is the “middle ground” between frameless glass and traditional aluminium fencing.

It uses the same toughened safety glass (usually 10mm thick), but each panel is secured by vertical aluminium or stainless-steel posts.

You still get the see-through effect, but with slightly more visible framing.

Why people choose it:

• Modern and elegant, without the full cost of frameless

• Added structural support (especially in windy areas)

• Easier DIY install than frameless

Ideal for:

• Modern family homes

• Sloping or uneven ground

• Areas with strong wind or kids/pets running around

Pros:

• Still visually light and open

• Posts offer extra strength

Cons:

• Posts slightly break up the view

• More surfaces to clean

• Still pricier than full aluminium

Maintenance: Same as frameless — plus wipe down the posts to prevent corrosion.
Installation complexity: Moderate. DIY-friendly with the right kit.
Price Range: $$$

Aluminium Pool Fencing

Aluminium is the workhorse of pool fencing.

It’s light, rust-proof, compliant, and comes in dozens of colours and styles (flat top, loop top, vertical rod, slatted, you name it).

Panels are usually powder-coated and attached to aluminium posts with brackets or screws. It’s the most common type of pool fencing in Australia.

Why people use it:

• Easy to install

• Affordable

• Low-maintenance

• Doesn’t rust

Ideal for:

• Rental properties

• Budget-conscious renovations

• Kid-friendly backyards

Pros:

• Very affordable

• Strong and weather-resistant

• Quick to install (even DIY)

Cons:

• Doesn’t offer visual transparency

• Can feel basic if not styled well

Maintenance: Minimal. Hose down occasionally. Touch up paint if scratched.
Installation complexity: Low. Ideal for DIY or fast installs.
Price Range: $$

So, Which One’s Right For You?

Let’s compare them side-by-side:

The “Invisible Fence” Look

If you want that wow-factor where the fence vanishes and the pool looks like it’s floating — go frameless.

You’ll pay more, and it’ll take longer to install… but it’ll make the whole backyard feel like a luxury resort.

Pair it with:

• Travertine or stone tiles

• In-pool lighting

• Feature landscaping or sculpture

The result? A backyard your guests won’t stop talking about.

The “Modern Family” Fence

Want something modern, safe, and still kind on the budget? Go semi-frameless.

You’ll get the glass look, with easier install and added strength.

Plus, you can match the posts to existing colours (monument, woodland grey, surfmist etc.).

Great with:

• New builds

• Timber or composite decking

• Glass pool gates with soft-close hinges

The “Get It Done” Fence

You just need it to be safe. Compliant. Clean. Low-maintenance.

Aluminium is your friend.

It’s faster to install, lasts for years, and you can dress it up with some hedging or laser-cut screens nearby if needed.

Works well with:

• Rental properties

• Granny flats

• Side yards or utility areas

What About Combining Materials?

You can mix and match.

Many people do frameless glass along the main pool edge, and aluminium along the back or boundary fences.

Or semi-frameless near the home, with aluminium near vegetation or uneven terrain.

This gives you the best of both worlds:

• Visual appeal where it matters

• Budget savings where it doesn’t

Final Word: Pick the Fence That Fits Your Life (Not Just Your Pool)

Every type of pool fencing has its place.

The key is to ask:

• How much visibility do I want?

• What’s my budget?

• Who’s using the space — kids, pets, guests?

• How confident am I installing this?

At Glass House AU, we supply frameless, semi-frameless, and aluminium pool fencing kits that are compliant, durable, and look great for years.

We’re here to help you pick what works — not what’s trending.

👉 Ready to build a safer, better-looking pool area? Send us a message or check out our full range today.