The 4 main different types of security fencing
You require to provide security fencing for your business or property but you do not know the different types of security fencing options available. This article supplies you with the 4 main different types of security fencing and lets you know the benefits of each. Additionally, it gives you an insight into other considerations you may require to think about before deciding which security fencing system is best for you.
Chain link fencing
Chain link fencing is made from galvanised steel or plastic coated steel wire. It is generally black or green in colour and woven into a zig-zag pattern to produce a diamond shaped fence. The chain link fencing anchors to concrete or metal posts and is supplied in various heights.
It is a low cost solution which is relatively easy to install. As it is durable, industrial sites, parks, sports pitches, tennis courts and other leisure facilities utilise it to deliver security and establish boundaries.
Mesh panel fencing
Mesh panel fencing is constructed from strong steel or galvanised stainless steel. It consists of wire mesh strands that have been welded together to form a robust mesh. The most popular colours are black and green but it is also available in other colours. The shapes and forms that are achievable in mesh panels allows it to be visually appealing while not compromising security.
It is used in parks, playgrounds and sports grounds because of its cost effectiveness. Many designs incorporate climb resistant features.
All these factors also make it very attractive to homeowners because it is versatile, robust, low cost, and aesthetically appealing.
Palisade fencing
Palisade fencing consists of a number of vertical steel running pales that are secured to 2 horizontal running rails to form panels. It is expensive but it can be cost effective as it is extremely robust, durable and weather resistant. A wide range of heights, colours and finishes are available.
It is difficult to climb or jump over due to its imposing height so it acts as a deterrent to intruders. High safety risk locations such as power stations and railway yards use this fencing as a solution. Its secure nature sees it used extensively in protecting warehouses, industrial sites and commercial businesses.
The palisade pales or planks comes in 3 shape profiles:
- D shaped – A D shaped profile is a simple shape which offers low damage resistance and a medium level of security. It still presents a clear boundary signal.
- W shaped – The extra bends in a W shaped profile adds more strength and bend resistance to the individual pales. It makes a vandals life more difficult by creating a highly effective security barrier.
- Angle steel – 90 degree angled steel profiles are a general purpose solution due to their simple manufacture and erection. This makes it more suited to sites that have to be secured quickly.
Bow top railings
Bow top railings, with their rounded top section come in galvanised and powder coated finishes. It is customisable with a number of decorative elements such as welded bars and spheres which makes a safe fence as well as a practical boundary.
As a solution it suits schools, playgrounds and other recreational venues where its anti-climbing properties are fully utilised. This combined with their aesthetically pleasing, low maintenance characteristics make it a wise and cost effective choice.
Types of security fencing – other key considerations
Additional extras
It is important that you consider all the costs when selecting which types of security fencing for your needs. Do you require additional anti-climb devices such as a barbed wire, a razor spike or an electric fence? Do you want your fence to match your company’s brand colours, or include signage? What level of security gate are you installing at the entrance? These are all additional extras that you require to factor into your budget. You need to balance all these elements against the peace of mind your security fencing will provide.
Security Gates
With regard to your security gate options, image is an important factor you require to weigh up. Is a manned gate a bigger deterrent than a remotely monitored one? Or is a great big heavy duty padlock as good a deterrent as you need for out of hours protection? Remember security is not just an anti-intruder device, it has a marketing context as well. If you look high value you customers will think you are as well.
Life-Span
There is also the life-span you expect your security fence to give you coverage for. If the solution is for a temporary scenario, then your only consideration may be on cost – but many perimeter fence solutions can be reused at other sites. So a higher initial cost gives better total cost of ownership if a more durable solution is purchased with this in mind. If you want a long term solution then cost is a factor in providing you with an ideal solution, and one which can be enhanced when the need arises.
Health and Safety
It may be tempting to go for the biggest and most defensive high security fencing you can have. But make sure that you are not transgressing any local by-laws or planning restrictions with the height, materials and even colour of your fence. You also really need to consider the health and safety considerations of your fences deterrent features. If you purposely deploy an element of your boundary with the intent to cause injury, then you will probably end up in court – that is why razor wire fencing is only really used “in the national interest”.
And finally
Remember your security fencing option is only as good as its weakest point. Be that a climbable gate, a badly eroded gully, a chain link fence next to a DIY store that sells wire cutters, or indeed a padlock from a pound shop. So choose your perimeter fencing carefully from one of the 4 types of security fencing (chain-link fence, steel palisade fence, welded mesh fence, and bow-top railing fence) described above for all your security needs.