Pools are the quintessential summertime staple. There’s nothing more relaxing than floating around on a hot day, or as invigorating as plunging into the cool clear waters in your own backyard. But, when you look up from your oasis, you see neighbors, cars, or passersby and realize you need a pool privacy fence. Now, there are plenty of DIY pool fence ideas that are both stylish and safe but maybe you want something more luxurious. It’s your oasis after all. So consider upgrading to an ultimate pool privacy fence — one you can still build yourself while giving you plenty of privacy and style. The one we’re talking about involves applying vinyl siding to wooden frames, resulting in a stylish solution that protects from prying eyes.  

In addition to being visually appealing, pool fences are also a required safety measure in all states except Alaska, Colorado, and Delaware. But even if you’re in one of those states, check with your local municipalities to be sure of laws regarding a pool fence. And don’t forget to get your permits while you’re at it; you don’t want to build a beautiful new fence and then receive a fine because you didn’t know you needed a permit to build it. Once you’ve squared up the logistics, it’s time to start creating your ultimate pool privacy fence.

It’s important to start by planning what you want: Do you envision installing an 8 foot pool privacy fence with hard-wired lighting and power outlets, or an outdoor shower requiring water lines and plumbing? Plan for these things ahead of time so you don’t impede progress down the line. Next, measure your planned space and decide on how much material you need. The last thing you want to do in preparation is call 811 to have all utility lines marked so you don’t hit any plumbing or electrical wires once you start excavating.

It’s now time to build your privacy fence. The first step is to build your frame using pressure-treated 4×4 posts and 2×4 studs (2×6 posts if you want it to be extra sturdy). These are common building materials that can be found at many hardware stores and lumber yards. Home Depot and Lowe’s have good deals on lumber. Measure and dig out where you’ll put all your posts. This next step is arguably the most important — frame out your fence, cementing the posts into your pre-dug holes while leveling everything along the way for an even fence line. If the fence is crooked in any way, you set yourself up for problems down the road. Once the frame is up (and level), cement has cured, and it’s sturdy, you’re ready for the siding. Vinyl siding is a durable and cost-effective choice that doesn’t require painting because it comes in a number of colors. Since some vinyl siding is interlocked to fit together securely, start from the bottom and work your way up to the very top. You’re now ready to accessorize the space with lighting, sculptures, paint, and landscaping for your ultimate pool privacy fence transformation.