Installing a security fence around your property is one of the most effective ways to deter burglars and keep your home safe. But not all fences are created equal when it comes to security. The type of fencing you choose can make a big difference.
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When selecting security fencing, there are three main factors to consider:
1. Visibility
You want a fence that provides clear visibility, not one that blocks views or creates hiding spaces. Open, see-through fencing like wire mesh or welded wire is ideal. This allows you to see any intruders while also making it harder for them to go unnoticed. Solid wood or vinyl fencing may look nice but don't offer the visibility needed for security.
In review, make sure you can clearly see through the fence. Solid fences block your view.
2. Climb Resistance
It should be difficult to climb over or scale your security fence. Look for fencing that is at least 6-8 feet tall and has few horizontal footholds. Fences with rounded or spiked tops provide an additional climbing deterrent. Materials like wrought iron or steel with close, vertical rods are hard to get a grip on.
In review, that was:
6-8 ft. tall
Few Horizontal footholds
Rounded or spiked tops
3. Strength
A sturdy, durable material will hold up against attempts to cut through or push over sections of the fence. Commercial-grade aluminum, welded wire fences, and chain-link are very strong. If opting for a material like wood, use thick, solid boards that are securely installed deep into concrete footings. This prevents bypassing by going under the fence.
In review, the ideal material is commercial-grade aluminum, welded wire, and chain link.
Given these criteria, here are some of the best options for security fencing:
Alluminum palisade - With spear-topped, close-set vertical rods, this fence is difficult to both grip and climb.
Welded wire mesh - Sturdy welded wire in a grid pattern provides visibility while resisting cutting.
Wrought iron - Ornate but strong iron designs are attractive and climb-resistant.
Reinforced wood - With proper installation and thick boards, wood can also deter intruders. This type of fence should be considered thoughtfully prior to purchase because of the additional fees and maintenance required over time. If you choose reinforced wood, the pickets will need to be spaced out to meet the first requirement, visibility, for a security fence.
Always check your local regulations on fence height and materials before installing your new security fence. And be sure to lock any gates to complete the protective barrier around your property. With the right fencing choice, you can significantly improve your home security.
Talk to R&S today to discuss your security needs. As fence experts, we take a consultative approach to your security fence needs. We will partner with you and your unique situation to ensure you get the security solution right for you. Call today or fill out an online contact request here.
A security fence is one of the most important elements in your home's overall security plan.
A security fence is both a major psychological deterrent and a physical obstacle. First, it signals to intruders that entering your property might be more trouble than it's worth. Second, the fence provides a serious physical obstacle if they should decide to intrude.
Not all security fences are the same. Some fences that are effective deterrents not only invite intruders but give them a welcoming environment for breaking into your home.
Why You Might Need a Security Fence
A security fence protects your home and property by deterring or delaying intruders. No security fence can keep out all intruders. With enough time, patience, and the right tools, an intruder can bypass even the toughest fence, so the idea behind a security fence is to delay the intruder for as long as possible.
If your home has been burglarized or you live in an area with a high crime rate, installing an effective security fence can keep you, your family, and your property safer.
Tip
Check with your insurance company to see if you qualify for lower homeowner's insurance rates by adding additional security features and if a fence is included.
7 Qualities of an Effective Security Fence
Height
Fence height alone is a good deterrent for intruders. While an 8-foot fence or higher is ideal, zoning restrictions in most incorporated areas limit fences to 6 feet high.2 Consult with your permitting authority about how high you can build your security fence and max it out at that height.
Clear Visibility
If an intruder manages to scale a solid fence, it provides invisibility from the street, making it easier to go unnoticed while breaking into your house. An effective security fence has visibility and clear sightlines between the street and the house.
No Hiding Places
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A clear, open security fence is one way to expose intruders. Another way is to eliminate obstacles around the fence that act as hiding places: bushes, rocks, signs, hillocks, and berms.
Obstacles on Top
No matter how high the security fence is, it can be easily scaled if it's flat on top. From an aesthetic and zoning standpoint, barbed or razor wire isn't usually allowable or desirable on residential fences.2 Blunt spikes are sharp enough to make climbing uncomfortable.
No Bypasses or Easy Entry Points
If the fences have open sections, intruders can force their way through. Any perimeter security fence must be solid all the way around. Gates and other planned access points should be locked and located in visible areas.
Difficult to Cut or Bend
Given enough time, nearly any fence material can be cut or bent. The longer you can deter an intruder, the better, so make sure the material is difficult to bend or cut.
Limited or Difficult Steps
Most of the fence materials should be vertically oriented. Structurally, some horizontal pieces will be necessary. But these pieces should be limited or difficult to access, so they don't act as ladder rungs for the intruder to scale the fence.
Best Security Fence Materials
Steel Palisade Fence
Zoning permitting, steel palisade fencing, with its pales (vertical slats) that curve outward at the top, is a strong deterrent for would-be intruders. The high-tensile steel requires special tools to cut.
Welded Wire Steel Fence
For this type of fence, tough 6-gauge or more wire mesh is welded together into 2-inch-wide by 4- to 6-inch-high rectangles throughout the fencing. The 2-inch width makes it difficult for shoes to gain a toe-hold. Because the mesh is open, visibility is clear.
Read more: All About Metal Fences
Ornamental Wrought Iron Fence
For many homeowners, neighborhood associations, and permitting agencies, ornamental wrought iron represents the sweet spot for security fencing: tough and intruder-resistant yet attractive.
Tip
Ornamental wrought iron has long been used for security fencing at the White House. For decades, the height was 6 and a half feet. In 2020, the height was doubled to 13 feet.
Chain Link Fence
A chain link fence is a moderately effective delay device against intruders. Chain link fences only delay intruders between three to 20 seconds.
The chain link's diamond-shaped holes are nearly 3 inches wide, permitting an easy toe-hold for most shoes. The 9- or 11-gauge steel wire can be cut with a hacksaw, bolt cutter, or garden loppers.
The chain link's open visibility is a plus, though. For many homeowners with a tight budget, chain link fencing may be the best option due to its low cost.
Wood
Wood fences are poor choices for security fencing. Wood is easily cut or pried loose. A wood fence also provides cover for intruders to break into your home.
Assessing Your Property for a Security Fence
Calculate the total perimeter of the security fence and which areas need to be enclosed.
Look for natural features near the intended fence that may help intruders scale the fence.
Assess the ground for solidity. Security fences must be firmly secured in concrete.
Check your fence design against local zoning restrictions and stay within the limitations. You might be required to change or remove the fence if it does not comply with local zoning.
Are you interested in learning more about 358 Security Fence? Contact us today to secure an expert consultation!