Palisade vs Steel Fencing

Palisade fencing, a robust security solution made from steel pales attached to horizontal rails, offers high durability and anti-climb features, making it a popular choice for commercial and industrial properties. While both palisade and steel fencing provide strong perimeter protection, they differ in terms of installation ease, visual deterrence, and long-term maintenance requirements.

Advantages and Disadvantages Compared

Palisade fencing and steel fencing each have distinct advantages and disadvantages. Here’s a comprehensive comparison of the pros and cons of both types:

Palisade Fencing:

Pros:

• Excellent anti-climb properties due to lack of footholds and pointed tops.
• High security with robust construction using galvanised steel.
• Acts as a strong visual deterrent against break-ins and vandalism.
• Versatile and suitable for various locations including airports, railways, and schools.
• Easy to maintain with minimal upkeep required.
• Individual pales can be replaced if damaged, without replacing entire panels.

Cons:

• Higher initial cost compared to mesh or standard steel fencing.
• Less aesthetically pleasing due to imposing appearance.
• Longer installation time compared to mesh fencing.
• Limited design options compared to some other fencing types.

Steel Fencing:

Pros:

• Strong and durable, resistant to impact and weather conditions.
• Provides excellent security due to its robustness.
• Low maintenance requirements with resistance to rot, decay, and pests.
• Available in a variety of styles and designs for customization.
• Long lifespan when properly installed and maintained.

Cons:

• Generally more expensive upfront than wood or vinyl options.
• Heavy weight can increase installation complexity and cost.
• Susceptible to rust and corrosion if not properly treated or coated.
• Conducts electricity, requiring precautions for electrical components.
• Generic steel fencing may lack the specific security features of palisade fencing.

When choosing between palisade and steel fencing, consider factors such as the required level of security, budget constraints, aesthetic preferences, and specific site requirements. Palisade fencing generally offers higher security and acts as a stronger deterrent, while standard steel fencing may provide more design flexibility and potentially lower costs.

Anti-Climb Features of Palisade

Palisade fencing incorporates several anti-climb features that make it an effective security solution. The vertical steel pales are often topped with sharp points or spikes, typically in ‘D’ or ‘W’ profiles, creating a formidable visual and physical deterrent. The fence’s design eliminates footholds, making it exceptionally difficult to scale, with heights typically starting at 1.8 meters and potentially reaching much higher. For enhanced security, additional features can be added, such as:

• Outward-curving pales at the top.
• Anti-climb mesh sandwiched between vertical pales.
• Y or T extensions with barbed or razor wire.
• Rotating spikes or additional barbed wire toppings.

These features not only increase the physical challenge of climbing but also serve as powerful visual deterrents, discouraging potential intruders from attempting to breach the perimeter.

Durability of Galvanised Steel

Galvanised steel palisade fencing offers exceptional durability and longevity, making it a cost-effective security solution for various environments. The galvanisation process, which involves coating steel with a protective layer of zinc, significantly enhances the fence’s resistance to corrosion and weathering. In moderate environments, galvanised steel with an 85 µm coating thickness can last 30 to 50 years before requiring maintenance, while in more corrosive conditions, it still provides 20 to 40 years of service.

Key factors contributing to the durability of galvanised steel palisade fencing include:

• Rust and corrosion resistance, even in harsh weather conditions.
• Low maintenance requirements compared to traditional timber fencing.
• Ability to withstand wind speeds up to 110mph.
• Sustainable choice due to its long lifespan and recyclability.
• Compliance with BS EN ISO 1461:2009 standards for galvanised coatings.

With proper installation and routine maintenance, galvanised steel fences in the UK typically last 15-20 years, with high-quality installations potentially reaching 25 years or more in rural settings.

Cost Comparison: Palisade vs Steel

Palisade fencing, while offering robust security, generally comes at a higher initial cost compared to standard steel fencing options. The average cost of palisade fencing materials ranges from £30 to £100 per meter, with installation adding an additional £30 to £60 per meter. This brings the total cost for palisade fencing to approximately £60 to £160 per meter installed. In contrast, standard steel fencing options like chain-link or welded mesh can be more economical upfront.

However, the long-term value of palisade fencing should be considered:

• Lower maintenance costs due to galvanized steel’s durability.
• Potential savings on security personnel or surveillance systems.
• Longer lifespan, potentially lasting 15-25 years with proper care.
• Reduced need for replacements or repairs compared to less robust fencing options.

When evaluating costs, it’s important to consider the specific security needs, location, and long-term objectives of the property to determine the most cost-effective solution.

Visibility Without Sacrificing Security

One of the standout features of palisade fencing is its ability to provide visibility without compromising security. The open design, characterized by evenly spaced vertical steel pales, ensures clear sightlines both into and out of the property. This transparency allows for effective monitoring and surveillance, making it easier to detect suspicious activities or intruders.

Unlike solid barriers, which can obscure views and create blind spots, palisade fencing eliminates potential hiding places for trespassers. Its visibility acts as a psychological deterrent, as intruders are aware they can be easily spotted by security personnel or passersby. This feature is particularly beneficial for commercial and industrial properties where constant oversight is critical.

Additionally, the robust construction of palisade fencing ensures that visibility does not come at the expense of strength. Made from heavy-duty galvanized steel, the fence remains highly resistant to tampering, cutting, or climbing. The pointed or spiked tops further reinforce its security capabilities while maintaining the open structure. Optional enhancements like anti-climb mesh can be integrated without obstructing visibility, providing an adaptable solution for high-risk environments.

This balance between visibility and security makes palisade fencing a preferred choice for properties requiring both deterrence and effective observation.

Selecting the Right Fence

When deciding between palisade and steel fencing, consider your specific security needs, budget, and aesthetic preferences. Here’s a guide to help you choose:

Choose palisade fencing if:

• Maximum security is your top priority.
• You need a strong visual deterrent.
• The property requires high anti-climb protection.
• You’re securing high-risk areas like airports or industrial sites.
• Long-term durability is essential.
• Clear visibility through the fence is important.

Choose steel fencing if:

• You want more design flexibility.
• Aesthetics are a significant concern.
• Your budget is more limited.
• The security requirements are moderate.
• You need a quicker installation process.
• The fencing is for residential or low-risk commercial areas.

Factors to consider when making your decision:

• Security level required: Palisade offers superior security features.
• Budget: Steel fencing is generally less expensive upfront.
• Aesthetics: Steel fencing provides more design options.
• Installation time: Steel fencing is typically quicker to install.
• Maintenance: Both require minimal maintenance, but palisade may be easier to repair.
• Visibility: Palisade allows for better surveillance while maintaining security.
• Environmental conditions: Consider the fence’s exposure to corrosive elements.

For high-security applications, palisade fencing is often the preferred choice due to its robust construction and anti-climb features. However, if budget is a primary concern and security needs are moderate, steel fencing can provide a good balance of protection and cost-effectiveness. Ultimately, the decision should be based on a careful assessment of your specific requirements and the unique characteristics of your property.

Summary: Palisade vs Steel Fencing

Palisade fencing and steel fencing both provide strong security solutions but cater to different needs. Palisade fencing excels in high-security environments, offering robust anti-climb features, durability, and a strong visual deterrent. It is particularly suitable for industrial and commercial properties. However, it comes with higher upfront costs, a more imposing appearance, and limited design options but companies such as Engineered Composites offer a good range of solutions.

Steel fencing, on the other hand, provides greater design flexibility and aesthetic appeal, making it ideal for residential or low-risk areas. While it is strong and durable, it lacks some of the advanced security features of palisade fencing. Steel fencing is generally quicker to install and less expensive upfront but requires proper treatment to avoid rust and corrosion.

When choosing between the two, consider factors such as security needs, budget, aesthetic preferences, and site-specific requirements. Palisade fencing is best for maximum security and visibility, while steel fencing is better suited for moderate security with more design customization.

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