Frameless Glass Pool Fence Buying Guide: Choosing your Spigots
A frameless glass fence is an ideal solution to keeping the pool safe while maintaining a continuous view of the entire outdoor area. Frameless glass fences are gaining popularity due to lower costs and the ease of installation – you could do it yourself if you are so inclined, to save on professional construction fees. All that is required are glass panels and spigots. A spigot is a metal peg anchored to the ground while allowing the glass panel to be suspended slightly above ground. Properly installed, the spigots hold the fence securely in place without the need for posts or frames.
There are 2 types available: the friction spigot and the compression spigot. A friction spigot works by clamping on to the glass with rubber grip sleeves that line the interior of the spigot, to hold the glass panel in place. A compression spigot on the other hand, uses a mechanical anchor point - a metal bolt that goes through a hole in the glass panel to secure it. If you decide on using the compression spigot, the glass panels will have to have holes drilled in the right spots.
Spigots come in round or square styles and are designed to securely hold 8-12mm thick glass panels as required by law to comply with pool fencing standards applicable to residents of Australia.
The quality of the spigots should be carefully considered. Be certain that the spigot you choose is made of weather proof and corrosion resistant material. An ideal metal is high quality anodized aluminum alloy. Remember, all brand-new spigots look nice and shiny but within months, the cheap imitation spigots begin to tarnish and rust. The rubber grip sleeves that hold the glass in place may begin to crack and loosen its hold on the glass. Make sure you get your spigots from a reputable source.
