How to Choose the Right Security Fence

With security a growing concern around the world, more and more people and companies are choosing to install or improve their security fencing systems.

Of course, not all fences are created equally, and there are many options, in various price ranges, that offer different levels of security. Here are a few options:

Chain link Mesh

Chain link mesh fencing is a relatively low cost way to designate areas, however, it is reasonably easy to climb, or cut through. In fact, seen from a distance, some holes may be almost undetectable, meaning you could have compromised security, without your knowledge!

Adding a straight or overhang extension to the top of a chain link fence, fitted with barbed or razor wire, can eliminate, or at least minimize the risk of climbing, and using a mesh manufactured from a thicker wire cuts down on the risk of cutting through the fence.

Welded Mesh Systems

Welded mesh systems are another medium security option, available either as panels or as rolls of mesh similar to chain link.

Welded mesh is typically tougher, and because you can get higher security options with smaller mesh apertures or openings, it can be more difficult to climb.

Because the mesh is rigid, unlike the woven chain link variety, holes need to be cut in squares or rectangles, which make security breaches easier to see, and like chain link, you can add a security extension.

Welded Steel Fences

Welded steel fences, whether palisade type, bar type or wrought iron, provide a higher level of security.

Systems are customizable, and can be made up using thicker steel components for higher security applications, and in fully welded or bolted systems. The former is generally a higher security choice, although slightly more expensive, because it eliminates the possibility of bolts being cut.

However, bolted systems can be easier to install as a DIY project, so if you are planning a fence for your home, that may be something to consider!

Even welded steel fences are not infallible though, as criminals have been known to jack bars apart to gain entry.

Fencing Combined With Electrics

The best bet, when looking for truly high security fencing systems, is to combine the physical barrier of a fence with a detection system, either an electric fence, fitted to the main fence, or even infra red beams.

Electric fencing, of course, offers an additional deterrent as well as a detection option, since no one likes the idea of a shock! However, infra red beams are more unobtrusive, and may be a more aesthetically pleasing option, and since they can be installed inside the fence line, you would know instantly if someone breached your fence.

Whichever fence system you choose, whether one of these or another, try to buy the best quality you can afford. Inferior materials or coatings can leave a fence looking shabby in no time, and a fence is meant to be a long term investment!

With fencing, as with everything else in life, the old saying, "You get what you pay for" rings true, and if it seems too good to be true, it probably is!