Choosing the right type of perimeter fencing is an important decision and one that will ultimately help to ensure the safety and security of your property and its equipment for years to come. So, whether you’re looking to protect a commercial premises, retail outlet, industrial facility, or another type of premises, it’s important to take some time in determining which fencing option is best suited to your needs.
Here are some key factors to consider when selecting the ideal security fencing for your business.
Assess Your Needs
The first step you should take is to assess whether your premises has any specific security needs. You can do this by asking yourself the following questions:
- What level of security do you require?
- Do you want to protect any specific assets or sensitive information?
- What are the potential threats to your business?
By asking yourself the above questions, you will gain a much better understanding of your overall security needs, what you are looking to protect, and the threats that your premises may face. This will help you in determining the right type of fencing that is required to provide the right level of protection for your needs.
Do Your Research
With many different types of perimeter fencing available today, it can be daunting when asked to choose the option you would like to install. For this reason, you should always do your own initial research into the types of fencing available to you, and which one might be the more sensible option.
Each of the different types of security fencing you will encounter comes with their own advantages and disadvantages, so be sure to familiarise yourself with these prior to making your decision. Below are some of the most common fencing solutions and why you might choose to use them.
Steel Palisade
This type of perimeter fence is one of the more traditional options available on the market. It features a robust design with vertical pales attached to horizontal rails. Pointed tops can add an additional layer of protection, helping to deter climbing.
Well regarded as one of the most effective perimeter security solutions, steel palisade fencing is incredible difficult to breach. Some manufacturers such as the UK’s Lochrin Bain have designed more advance palisade systems where the vertical pales run through horizontal rails, rather than simply been front-fixed to them. This integrated design helps to improve the security of this type of fence even further.
Mesh
Mesh fencing (such as welded wire mesh and chain-link) is another popular option for protecting the perimeter of a building or other facility. Due to the mesh apertures present on this type of fence, it offers a clear view of the surrounding area. This feature can be highly beneficial for surveillance purposes from both inside and outside of the premises.
Welded wire mesh fencing is more rigid and difficult to cut through compared to chain-link, making it suitable for medium to high-security requirements. You can often find this type of fencing in schools, parks, retail outlets and for demarcation in various public spaces.
Always consider the size of the mesh apertures when choosing a mesh fence. Generally speaking, smaller mesh apertures will be more difficult to climb as there is reduced opportunity for an intruder to gain a foothold or fingerhold on the fence.
Electric Fencing
Electric fencing delivers a non-lethal shock to anyone attempting to breach it. This type of fencing is often used in combination with other fencing types for added security and is particularly effective in high-risk areas. As with other fencing types, electric fencing can be integrated with alarm systems to provide real-time alerts to security personnel.
Razor Wire
Razor wire is often used as an additional deterrent that can be placed on top of many existing fences. This approach is considered an inexpensive and effective solution to help prevent climbing and boost overall perimeter security. However, it’s important to note that razor wire can be extremely dangerous and may not be suitable for all environments, especially where public safety is a concern.
This type of deterrent can also be difficult to handle during installation, so be sure to consider employing a contractor who is used to dealing with razor wire and knows how to install it safely using the necessary safety equipment and other precautions.
Consider The Aesthetics
While security should be your main concern when seeking a perimeter fencing solution, you should also consider its appearance and how it might blend in with its surroundings. This is especially important if your business is customer-facing, for example, a retail outlet or other commercial premises accepting customers.
If required, you should opt for fencing that blends in well with your surroundings and does not create an unwelcoming atmosphere. For example, decorative metal fencing can provide security while enhancing the visual appeal of your property. An uncoated steel palisade fence might put customers off visiting your premises.
Budget & Ongoing Maintenance
Your budget will play a significant role in your choice of fencing. Steel palisade and electric fencing tend to be more expensive than mesh and more basic fencing options. However, investing in a high-quality solution can save you money in the long run by reducing the risk of theft and vandalism.
Additionally, you should also consider the maintenance requirements of your chosen fencing. Some materials, such as steel and aluminium, are far more durable and require less maintenance compared to wood or vinyl. The thickness of a steel fence can also play an important role with palisade fencing often able to provide much longer design life guarantees when compared to mesh fencing which uses thin steel wires.
To help protect your investment even further, if your choice of fencing allows it, you might wish to consider protective coatings such as galvanizing and/or powder coating. These protections can help prevent rust and corrosion, leading to a longer lifespan of your fence.
Installation & Compliance
Always ensure that your chosen fencing complies with local regulations and standards. Some areas may have specific requirements for the height of the fence, materials used, or additional security features you may wish to install. It’s essential that you consider working with a reputable fencing contractor who is familiar with these regulations as they will be able to help ensure proper installation and compliance.
You should also check if your insurance provider has any stipulations regarding the type and height of perimeter fencing that you should install.
Integrating Security Systems
For enhanced security, many property owners consider integrating their fencing with other security systems. These may include CCTV cameras, motion detectors, and access control systems at each gate or doorway into your premises.
By combining different perimeter security features, you can help to boost your overall level of security and benefit from a multi-layered security approach, making it more difficult for intruders to breach your perimeter whilst going undetected.
Conclusion
Choosing the right perimeter security fencing for your business is a critical decision that requires careful consideration of your security requirements, budget, and aesthetic preferences. By assessing these factors and exploring different fencing options available, you can select the most effective solution to protect your business premises.
Remember, a well-chosen perimeter fence not only enhances security but also provides peace of mind, allowing you to focus on running your business effectively.