Our Guide To: Security Fencing

What is security fencing?

Security fencing is a type of fence that is designed and installed to secure a property or asset, including residential properties, commercial buildings, industrial facilities, government installations, and many other sensitive areas. It plays a crucial role in safeguarding properties and the people who use them by maintaining privacy and protecting against various security threats. 

Special design features that deter unauthorised access, prevent trespassing, and provide a barrier against potential security threats are implemented into security fencing that makes the key difference from regular fencing and further increases protection. Security features may include:

• Height: Security fencing is often taller than typical residential fences to increase the difficulty for intruders to climb over them.
• Materials: These fences are often constructed using durable and robust materials, such as steel, aluminum, or wrought iron. The materials’ strength reduces breakage and weak points and increases resistance to tampering.
• Anti-climb: A variety of features are built into the design or added to security fences to make it difficult for intruders to climb over them, such as tight mesh paneling which reduces footholds, spike toppers, anti-climb brackets, or angled tops.
• Access control: Fences can be integrated with access control systems, such as gates with electronic locks, keycard systems, or other means of controlling who can enter secured areas.
• Visibility: Some security fences are designed to be transparent or have limited visibility to allow for better surveillance.
• Perimeter protection: Typically installed around the perimeter of a property, security fencing creates a clear boundary to prevent trespassing and increase privacy.

The specific design and features that you need in your fence system will depend on the level of security required and the type of assets you need to protect.

How much does security fencing cost?

Prices vary for security fencing depending on the type of fence, security requirements, and additional system accessories. As a rough guide, prices range between £25-50 per panel for some basic temporary options, all the way up to £700 per panel for some heavy-duty products. Smart automation and motorised access control systems would then be additional costs on top of the initial fencing choice. 

It’s best to consult your commercial fencing company directly for a quote to make sure you’re buying the right products at the right price. At CFS, we offer a free quote service where we will visit your site and recommend some suitable security fencing options that meet your requirements. We’ll give you a detailed quote for each and explain all our service options, including installation. Alternatively, you can get a tailored quote over the phone by calling us at 01327601144.

How high should security fencing be?

Depending on the specific nature of the site and the assets you need to secure, fencing height requirements can vary. For example, the government mandates that prison fencing must meet a minimum height of 3 meters, whilst educational institutions, like schools, typically find a height range of 1.8 to 2.4 meters to be a suitable level of protection. The recommended height for building site hoarding is 2.4 meters, although a height of at least 2 meters will usually suffice for many sites. 

Critical National Infrastructure (CNI) sites, however, must follow strict regulations, and security fencing for these locations must meet specific standards. Fences around CNI sites are often NPSA-rated (formerly CPNI) which means it possess characteristics that will defend against surreptitious attack, like an attempt to gain unlawful access to classified material or locations. These NPSA-approved security fences often reach a height requirement of 3 meters and can be fitted with anti-climb security toppings to meet rigorous security standards and effectively protect CNI sites.

Security fencing regulations

Various regulatory bodies approve fences as fit for purpose. Depending on your requirements, you’ll need to check that your fence meets the correct standards for your site or premises. For example, security fencing options should, at the very least, meet British Standards; school and park fencing should be RoSPA-approved to ensure safety; security products and fencing systems should meet Secured by Design criteria to ensure quality operational performance; and more robust security fencing for maximum security facilities should be approved by NPSA. 

For more information on fencing standards and regulations, get in touch and we’ll be happy to talk you through regulatory bodies and which products meet their requirements. 

Types of fences for security

Choosing the right type of security fencing is essential to achieving effective protection. Here are some of the most common fence types to consider in your search:

Chain link fencing

Made of interwoven metal links, typically steel or aluminum, chain link fences provide a quick, cost-effective solution to security. Chain link is usually made from galvanised steel for rust resistance, supported by a system of posts and rails. Commonly used in residential, commercial, and industrial settings, chain link offers various height options for customisation depending on the premises. It’s an affordable option that’s quick to install – a practical choice for large areas or properties with budget constraints. This is a cheap option for the most basic demarcation and security needs. 

Mesh security fencing

Mesh fencing is made of metal wires woven or welded together to form a mesh pattern. Not only does this create an anti-climb structure, but it also provides visibility to aid surveillance. The mesh is typically made from materials like steel or aluminum, providing a robust structure that’s resistant to tampering, weathering, or accidental damage. It’s widely known for its effectiveness in preventing unauthorised access and has diverse suitability for applications where a combination of security and visibility is crucial. Additionally, mesh security fencing can easily be integrated with other security features such as access control systems and surveillance cameras for a comprehensive security solution.

Steel palisade fencing

Constructed using steel bars or panels, steel palisade provides a strong and secure barrier.

It’s known for its strength and durability and can be customised with various finishes and accessories for both security and aesthetic appeal. The distinctive design features sharp, pointed tops, acting as an effective deterrent against climbing and intrusion. It’s renowned for its formidable appearance and is widely used for high-security facilities, including industrial premises, critical infrastructure, and commercial properties. Steel palisade fencing provides a strong physical barrier, and its durable construction makes it highly resistant to tampering and weathering. It is often chosen for its strength, ability to discourage unauthorised access, and suitability for areas where a maximum security solution is essential.

Security fencing automation systems

Security fence automation is the integration of automated technology with perimeter fencing and gated systems. With the addition of automation, overall security can be enhanced by increasing control of the protected area. These systems provide advanced surveillance and monitoring, access control, traffic control, and response capabilities to create a dynamic, encompassing security solution that removes the need to employ a team of security staff.

CFS automation systems are tailored to your needs, so you will receive a bespoke security solution that protects your site efficiently and effectively. We can create security solutions that include electronic gates and biometric readers, surveillance cameras with high-definition and infrared capabilities, intrusion detection sensors, perimeter lighting for visibility, alarm systems with swift response capabilities, and integration with centralised control centers for real-time monitoring – the options are endless. 

How secure are automatic gates?

While automatic gates can offer a high level of security, it’s important to choose the right type that meets the specific needs of your commercial property. Providing the correct type of gate and automation is selected, your security will be optimal. Integrating automatic gates into a comprehensive automation system, including surveillance, lighting, and access control measures, will ensure complete property protection. We can help you choose the right automatic gate for your premises and security system.

Once installed, regular reviews and updates to security protocols will be required to maintain effectiveness and ensure your automatic gate is safe. Providing these checks are completed regularly, your gate should remain thoroughly secure, long-term. 

How to install security fencing

Installation guidance is completely dependent on the type of fence you purchase. General assembly can be simple or complex; the connection can range from clips to customer-built connectors; and permanent fixtures will require different footing depths depending on height and mass. Automated security systems may then require specialist installers such as electricians. Luckily, CFS can handle all this for you. 

As fully trained, qualified, and experienced fencing contractors, CFS provides flexible installation services across all security fencing solutions. We’re highly accredited with years of experience, so you can be sure that your security fencing project will be installed by professionals.

Get in touch

At CFS, we specialise in delivering government-approved security fencing products aimed at optimising top-tier security, strength, and durability for commercial, education, and industrial properties. We take a collaborative approach and will work with you to design customised solutions tailored to meet specific height requirements, specifications, and functionalities, ensuring the complete security of your premises. Trust CFS to exceed your security expectations, backed by a range of top-quality products and services.

Get a free quote today or pick up the phone for a chat, we look forward to exploring your security options with you.