How to Install a Pool Fence in Grass or Dirt
Yes, you can install an All-Safe® pool fence in grass, dirt or turf. Instead of drilling into a deck, each pole goes into a PVC sleeve set in its own poured concrete footing. It takes more digging and concrete than a deck install, so here’s what to plan for before you start.
What’s Different in Grass and Dirt
- A footing for every pole. Every pole and post that lands in grass or dirt needs a PVC sleeve set in a concrete footing, about ⅓ bag of Rapid Set concrete each.
- Straight lines are easiest. Mesh fencing works by tension, so keep runs in grass or dirt as straight as you can. Curves need extra poles, and every extra pole means another footing.
- Mixed surfaces are common. Many fences start on the pool deck and finish in the grass. Use the deck method for the poles on the deck and footings for the poles in the grass.
Turns and Ends
- Every turn in dirt is made with a Round Terminating Post. Corner posts and double-pole corners can’t go in dirt.
- Ends in dirt also finish on a Round Terminating Post, about 1 bag of concrete each, set in a cemented or removable sleeve. See How to Install a Round Terminating Post & Sleeve.
Gates
- The U-Safe® gate kit is the one gate that goes straight into grass or dirt. It sets in two concrete footings of its own, and each footing also holds a fence-pole sleeve so the fence continues on both sides. See U-Safe® Pool Fence Gate Kit.
- Every other self-closing gate needs a solid, level base: a concrete gate pad 4 ft long, 1 ft wide and 4 in thick, with rebar recommended. See Do I need a concrete gate pad for my pool fence gate?
Planters and Slopes
Poles in planters follow the same rule: one footing per pole in the dirt. A fence that runs up a dirt slope is built on site with longer poles, and that stretch is best left to a professional installer.
Mowing and Yard Care
Each pole location leaves a PVC stub in the lawn. Before you mow or use a weed whacker near the fence, take the fence down so the trimmer line can’t catch the mesh.
Having It Professionally Installed?
Your installer pours the footings during the install. Final footing spots are set on site, so an estimate gives you an approximate count.
Installation Steps
Run a string line
Measure to your next pole
Dig your hole
Screws in the PVC
Hammer in the PVC
Fill 1/3 of the hole with water
Fill the hole with Rapid Set concrete & mix
Check your PVC
Mark level on your PVC & Cut
Install the fence
Replace grass over the footing
Gallery
Need Help?
Start with the Installation Quick Guide and the video above. Still stuck? Email [email protected] or chat with us during business hours.