Swimming pool barriers are often the first line of defence when it comes to ensuring safety and security around the area. However, there is a phenomenon that baffles many – the sudden and unexpected 'explosion' of pool fencing Sydney.
The following list explains the strange reasons why your pool fence may suddenly shatter.
Spontaneous Glass Breakage
Pool barriers made of tempered glass might explode without any apparent reason. Tiny imperfections, inclusions, or damage during installation might cause stress in the glass, leading to spontaneous breakage.
Thermal Stress
Temperature changes can wreak havoc on glass barriers. If one part of the glass heats up faster than another, it may cause tension within the material, leading to a shattering effect. A lack of uniform heat distribution, due to shading or pool heating systems, might contribute to this.
Nickel Sulfide Inclusions
One of the primary culprits behind this phenomenon is nickel sulphide inclusions. These microscopic particles can be present in tempered glass and might cause the glass to break spontaneously. The constant changes in temperature can cause these inclusions to expand and contract, leading to an explosion.
Poor Installation
An improper installation of barrier panels can be a significant factor. The fasteners might be too tight, or the holes drilled into the glass might not be properly aligned. These factors can put an enormous strain on the glass and cause it to shatter unexpectedly.
Manufacturing Defects
Sometimes, the glass might have defects from the manufacturing process. Any inconsistencies in the glass, such as bubbles or cracks, could eventually lead to the barrier exploding.
Impact with Sharp Objects
While tempered glass is relatively tough, it can be more susceptible to breakage upon impact with sharp objects. The edges of the glass are particularly vulnerable, and any sharp impact here could cause the entire panel to explode.
Weather Conditions
Extreme weather conditions, such as storms or hail, can be hard on pool barriers. Flying debris during a storm or the impact of hailstones can cause cracks in the glass, resulting in its shattering.
Barriers Under Continuous Pressure
In some cases, pool barriers are under constant pressure from wind or even the weight of the glass itself. Over time, this pressure can cause stress fractures to form, which eventually leads to glass shattering.
Chemical Exposure
Swimming pools are often treated with various chemicals to keep the water clean. However, exposure to these chemicals, or the pool water itself, might cause corrosion or other damage to the glass over time, resulting in breakage.
Vandalism
Though less common, vandalism is another reason that glass barriers around pools can shatter. Mischievous individuals might target these barriers with stones, causing them to break.
Previous Minor Damages
Sometimes a panel might have been subjected to minor damages or scratches in the past, which went unnoticed. These minor imperfections can become stress points in the glass. Over time as these stress points weaken the structural integrity of the panel, it might eventually shatter unexpectedly.
Incorrect Choice of Material
Finally, the selection of the incorrect type of glass can be a reason for unexpected breakages. While tempered glass is typically used for pool barriers due to its strength, not all tempered glass is created equal. Lower-quality tempered glass may be more susceptible to all of the above issues.
The explosion of glass barriers surrounding swimming pools can be alarming and hazardous. Knowing the reasons behind these occurrences can help in preventing such incidents. It’s imperative to choose high-quality glass, ensure proper installation, and regularly inspect the barriers for any signs of damage or stress. Moreover, paying attention to the environment surrounding the pool, like shading and the chemicals used in pool maintenance, is also crucial.
Informed material choices, professional installation, regular maintenance, and vigilance can help prevent a pool barrier from exploding. The safety and security provided by these barriers are paramount, especially in homes with children and pets. With proper attention to the points in the list above, you can enjoy the aesthetics and security of glass pool barriers without worrying about any unexpected shattering.
