When it comes to securing a property, steel palisade fencing is a popular choice for many businesses. Its distinctive appearance and robust structure make it an effective deterrent against intruders, offering both security and peace of mind. However, like any security solution, it comes with its own set of advantages and disadvantages.
This blog post delves into the pros and cons of steel palisade fencing, helping you make an informed decision about whether it’s the right option for your perimeter security needs.
Pros of Steel Palisade Fencing
Here are just some of the many pros of steel palisade fencing.
Strong Deterrent to Intruders
One of the primary benefits of steel palisade fencing is its strong deterrent effect. The pointed tops of the palisades make climbing extremely difficult and risky, effectively deterring potential intruders. This physical barrier is not just a psychological deterrent but also a formidable physical obstacle.
Some steel palisade is designed with even greater security in mind. Lochrin Bain for example are a UK fabricator of both traditional and high-security palisade fencing. Their range of Lochrin Combi™ fencing is designed so that the vertical pales pass through the horizontal rails, offering better protection against brute force attacks – you can learn more about this product here.
High Durability & Low Maintenance
Steel palisade fencing is known for its durability. Made from high-quality steel, it can withstand harsh weather conditions, from the blistering heat to the coldest winters. Unlike wooden fencing, which may rot, or chain-link fences that can easily be cut through, steel palisade fencing remains strong and intact over the years.
Additionally, this type of perimeter fencing requires very little maintenance, saving both time and money in the long run.
Versatility & Aesthetics
Another advantage is the versatility and aesthetic appeal of steel palisade fencing. It is often available in a variety of styles and can be powder-coated to match the surrounding environment or corporate colors. This flexibility allows for a security solution that doesn’t compromise on appearance, making it suitable for a wide range of properties, from industrial sites to private residences.
Ease of Installation
Compared to some other types of fencing, steel palisade is relatively easy to install. This can lead to quicker installation times and potentially lower labour costs. The modular design allows for adjustments and modifications to fit various perimeter challenges including uneven and sloped terrain.
Cons of Steel Palisade Fencing
Some of the cons of steel palisade fencing include the following, many of which can be offset by other factors or by opting for premium designs of this type of fence.
Initial Cost
One of the main drawbacks of steel palisade fencing is the initial cost. The price of high-quality steel, combined with the cost of manufacturing, transportation, and installation, makes it more expensive than some alternatives such as wire mesh fencing.
For those on a tight budget, this can be a significant factor to consider, however, steel palisade will often provide a better return on investment throughout its lifetime, lasting much longer than alternative fencing and requiring little to no maintenance over the years.
Less Privacy
Steel palisade fencing does not offer the same level of privacy as solid fencing options like wood or vinyl. The gaps between the palisades allow for visibility into and out of the enclosed area. For properties requiring privacy, additional measures or alternative fencing options might be necessary.
It should be noted that many businesses prefer to have visibility in and out of their premises so that suspicious activity can be monitored from either side of the fence. Should this be the case for you, then this privacy concern shouldn’t be an issue.
Potential Safety Concerns
The design features that make steel palisade fencing an effective deterrent can also pose safety risks should somebody still decide to climb over the fence.
This factor may be of concern in public spaces or school grounds where children and teenagers may be more likely to attempt to climb perimeter fencing to retrieve an object such as a ball. In this scenario, the pointed tops could cause injury due to lack of awareness of the dangers of scaling steel palisade fencing.
Vulnerability to Rust
Although steel palisade fencing is generally very durable, it is still susceptible to rust over time, especially in coastal areas or environments with high moisture or salt levels. Fortunately, this factor can be easily mitigated to help prolong the life of the fence by opting for a galvanized finish, powder coating, or even a mixture of the two.
Conclusion
Steel palisade fencing offers a robust and durable security solution that combines functionality with aesthetic appeal. Its deterrent effect, low maintenance, and versatility make it an attractive option for many, however, the initial cost, potential lack of privacy, safety concerns, and vulnerability to rust are important factors to consider.
Whether steel palisade fencing is the right choice for your project will depend on your specific security needs, budget, and the environment in which the fencing will be installed. Careful evaluation of these pros and cons will ensure that you make a decision that provides the best protection and value for your property.
