For most people, a fence is just that, and seldom note the difference between fence types. Few ponder what makes a security fence unique from the standard fence erected in backyards. However, security is a top concern when picking a fence to secure your property, whether industrial, institutional, or commercial. Yet most people do not even know what to look for when making their purchase.
Security fences have features that distinguish them from their residential counterparts. We shall share with you some of the chief elements to look for when choosing a security fence such as wire mesh fencing.
Security Fence Height
Height is a factor that holds a lot of significance regarding the security the fence will provide, and it is what differentiates a security fence from standard demarcation barriers. The standard security fence has a minimum height of six feet, but most are nearly eight feet. You can also find some standing ten feet and higher. For instance, prisons have fences that are upwards of fourteen feet high.
Security Fencing Structure
Residential fences are primarily constructed to meet privacy needs; being structures for demarcation instead of security and exclusion. Hence, most residential fences are made from vinyl, and wood, with a few exceptions made from steel and having a thicker build. Nevertheless, this does not improve their score regarding security.
Take note of the wall thickness and diameters when going through a security fence specification printout. Inquire if the fence has industrial or commercial specifications if you feel it seems lightweight. You could save money after purchasing a lightweight security fence but accrue more costs in repairs later. So, it is best to consider the long-term cost implications before buying.
Security Above and Below
Often, people focus on the physical benefits of having a robust security fence and ignore the unseen factor, what happens above and below the fence. So, a fence top security feature is essential if you are erecting the fence somewhere a ladder or other climbing device can easily be placed alongside it. Barbed wire, spikes, razor coils, and electronic monitoring are all viable options (where allowed by the government).
As for the bottom, if the fence’s base is meshed and can be lifted or dug under, then it will be a weak point that intruders can exploit. Consider installing a bottom rail over a hard surface. Moreover, take the time to learn more about under-fence security options that help curb digging.
Vehicular Impact
Vehicle access to your property is another paramount factor to consider when deciding on a security fence. The posts used on most standard chain link fences are spaced at up to 10’ centres. Hence, the fence lacks concrete footings, meaning a moderate to large vehicle can breach such a fence with ease.
Therefore, increasing the concrete footing size and fence posts is one way of improving security. You will bolster it further by decreasing the spacing between the fence posts. If you have planted-in heavy-duty concrete or heavy-duty steel posts in a restrictive space, then it will be harder for a vehicle to fit between them and enter the site. Opting for a crash-rated fence is also a wise investment. It might not prevent damage but can slow down or inhibit unauthorized entry to private, sensitive, or select areas.
Pro Tip: Nothing Is Infallible
They say diamonds are forever because they are damage-resistant, but not indestructible. Conversely, do not expect to find a security fence with no shortfalls. The measures we have shared can help improve your security fence’s efficiency, but will not render it impervious. No electronic security system, fence, or wall is impermeable. Therefore, make the most of these security enhancement suggestions to bolster your property’s privacy and safety.
