Also known as steel security fencing, palisade fencing provides a robust barrier for protecting property and assets. A variety of types are available to suit different project requirements. To ensure you make the right choice, here is a complete guide on what you should know before getting one for your project.
In This Guide:
What is a palisade fence?
There are a few names for palisade fencing, like security pales or steel picket fencing. Palisade fences are a piece of security equipment usually found at commercial properties and high-security sites. A palisade fence uses vertical steel bars (pales) bolted to horizontal steel bars (rails). This design is very strong and makes it difficult for anyone to get through.
Palisade fences can secure almost any kind of site, from industrial estates to transportation corridors. Since you can see through it, it allows for great visibility for security patrols or CCTV cameras, and it doesn't create blind spots like a solid wall would. Different styles and heights are available to make it fit for any type of project you have.
What can a palisade fence be used for?
Palisade fences are barriers with great strength and durability, and most secure sites use them to create a reliable perimeter. It consists of a line of steel pales that act as a physical and visual deterrent to stop unauthorized access. Aside from being used at industrial sites, they can also be used for public utilities, airports, and government buildings.
These fences can define boundaries, deter climbing, and protect assets. Palisade fences can also be used to secure remote infrastructure, prepare job sites, and provide a long-lasting security solution for a completed project.
Palisade Fence Applications
There are specific palisade fence styles that are designed for different purposes. When combining the right height, pale style, and top, a palisade fence is sure to deliver great performance and safety.
High-Security Sites
Palisade fences for high-security sites like data centers, military bases, and utility substations require maximum deterrence. They need to be difficult to climb and resistant to being forced open.
Recommended Style: Tall fences (2.4m or 3.0m) with a 'W' profile pale and a 'Triple Pointed' top.
Industrial and Commercial Sites
These applications need a strong, durable boundary for factories, warehouses, and storage yards. The goal is to protect goods and equipment from theft and vandalism.
Recommended Style: 'W' or 'D' profile pales with a 'Single Pointed' or 'Triple Pointed' top.
Transportation Corridors
Fencing for railways, airports, and seaports is made to have a high level of security and to clearly mark boundaries over long distances.
Recommended Style: Tall 'W' profile fences are standard to prevent trespassing onto critical transport lines.
Schools and Public Areas
These fences need to provide security while also ensuring public safety. They are used to control access and protect property without creating a hazard for children or the general public.
Recommended Style: Fences with a 'Rounded and Notched' top are specially made to prevent injury while still being an effective barrier.
How can I choose the right type of palisade fence?
Choosing the right palisade fence requires matching its specifications to your security needs. The most important factors to consider are the fence height, pale profile, pale top style, and finish. Getting these details right is crucial for creating an effective and durable security barrier.
Let's break down each of these key specifications.
Fence Height
Fence height is the most obvious and critical security feature. Standard heights typically range from 1.8m (about 6 ft) to 3.0m (about 10 ft).
High-Security Projects: Taller fences (2.4m to 3.0m) are essential for sites requiring maximum protection, as they present a formidable barrier to intruders.
General Boundary Marking: Shorter fences (around 1.8m) are perfect for defining property lines and securing low-risk areas.
As a rule, the higher the security risk, the taller the fence should be.
Pale Profile ('W' vs. 'D')
The profile of the vertical pales affects both security and cost.
'W' Profile: This is the modern standard for high-security applications. Its shape is harder to grip and provides superior strength, making it the top choice for preventing climbing.
'D' Profile: This is a more traditional and cost-effective option, well-suited for general-purpose security where a strong visual deterrent is sufficient.
Pale Top Style
The top of each pale can be formed into different shapes, providing varying levels of deterrence.
Triple Pointed: The most aggressive option, offering the highest level of anti-climb deterrence. It is the standard for high-security perimeters.
Single Pointed: Also a highly effective deterrent, suitable for most commercial and industrial security applications.
Rounded and Notched: The safest option, designed for areas with significant public interaction (like schools or parks) to prevent injury while still marking a boundary.
Fence Finish
The finish protects the fence from corrosion and determines its final appearance.
Galvanized: A standard zinc coating provides excellent, long-lasting protection against rust.
Powder Coated: Applied over a galvanized base, powder coating adds another layer of durability and allows you to choose a color (e.g., green or black) to blend the fence with its surroundings.
Understanding the Components
Finally, it’s helpful to know the core components of a palisade fence system.
Pales: The vertical steel pales that form the main barrier.
Rails: The horizontal beams (typically two) that support the pales.
Posts: The main vertical supports anchored into the ground.
Fishplates: Small, strong plates used to connect the rails securely to the posts.
Fasteners: The nuts and bolts holding the system together.
Safety Considerations and Possible Hazards
Any kind of security barrier has certain safety points to consider, and any person assigned to install these fences should have proper training. Palisade fences are no exception, as they are designed to be a formidable barrier. Here are some notes to remember:
Installation Hazards
Before installing a palisade fence, make sure the area is clear. The steel components are heavy, and posts must be securely set in concrete to prevent the fence from becoming unstable. Use all safety protocols and wear proper personal protective equipment (PPE).
Public Safety
When installing a fence in an area with public access (like a school or park), the design itself becomes a safety factor. A fence with 'Triple Pointed' tops could be a danger to the public. It’s better to use a 'Rounded and Notched' top in these areas. Never install an aggressive fence top where it could accidentally injure passersby.
Site Awareness
Even though you can see through a palisade fence, always be aware of your surroundings during installation and maintenance. Ensure that warning signs are used if the area is a live construction site.
Conclusion
With this basic knowledge, you are now better prepared to select a palisade fence. However, choosing the perfect specifications from the many available styles can be complex.
That's where our expertise comes in. At Rongtai, our specialists are here to provide suggestions and guide you in selecting the ideal palisade fence for your project. Contact us to ensure the solution you choose perfectly fits your security needs.
FAQ
Q: Is steel palisade fencing worth it?
A: Absolutely. While the initial cost is higher, palisade fencing is a superior long-term investment. Its exceptional durability, long lifespan (10 years), and low maintenance deliver excellent value and unmatched security for critical assets.
Q: How long does palisade fencing last?
A: A standard hot-dip galvanized palisade fence is built to last for over 5 years. Adding a powder-coated finish provides an extra layer of protection and can extend its lifespan even further to more than 10 years.
Q: How secure is palisade fencing?
A: It is one of the most secure fencing systems available. The design combines thick steel pales, pointed tops, and fasteners, making it extremely difficult to climb or cut. This creates both a formidable physical barrier and a powerful visual deterrent.
