Security is far more than just a priority, and commercial property security starts at the perimeter with security fencing. This necessity helps to protect businesses and their property from increasing threats, whether it’s theft, vandalism, or a completely separate issue. Security fencing’s design is to safeguard the property. Fencing solutions provide a quality method to protect the perimeter, as well as assets and people within that perimeter.
Security fencing establishes not just a physical barrier on the commercial front but also ensures there is a deterrent between the business property and any potential intruders or threats. The right fencing system will help to limit unauthorized access, protect sensitive areas, and enhance overall property security. The challenge is determining exactly what fencing solution will be the right choice for a specific property. That’s where we come in.
At MFR Corp, we offer a wide variety of security fence systems with the goal of providing a tailored solution to meet the needs of every commercial property. We will help you understand the options and solutions and work through the pertinent details to choose the right fence. In this guide, we provide an extensive look at commercial security fencing and everything you should know.
Understanding Security Fencing
Security fencing ultimately refers to some type of barrier designed to deter or prevent unauthorized access. From one facility to another, the security features required may vary. It is important not to try to fit every commercial property into a box and call it good. Instead, recognize that every property has unique needs and desires when it comes to fencing solutions.
At the heart of the matter, security fencing has one responsibility – to secure the property in question. Decorative fencing solutions often focus mostly on aesthetics, but many of those decorative options do very little to provide security. The good news is that you can combine aesthetics and security when you use a provider who understands how to customize details and provide what you need for perimeter security.
Most security fencing designs prioritize functionality and security, hence the name. These offer details such as reinforced and durable materials or advanced design elements. They do so with the intention of bolstering security. They will be taller than traditional fences and also may have added protective features, like barbed wire, electrical components, or motion detectors.
These concepts create formidable barriers and deter anyone who might consider trying to breach the property. That barrier should be both physical and psychological to deter potential intruders.
Security Fencing for Commercial Properties
For most commercial properties and businesses, the idea of security fencing goes beyond just putting a fence around the property boundaries. Instead, that fencing structure is the first line of defense in an attack of any kind, even basic vandalism. The security fencing is often just one element of a comprehensive security strategy.
Most security fence systems will be made with materials such as steel, mesh, or reinforced wire. They can also have additional security measures implemented, such as razor wire, barbed wire, tamper-resistant fasteners, and more.
The fact of the matter is that security fencing is a necessary protective measure for commercial properties to prevent crime, protect assets, reduce liability, and secure the perimeter of their property. These systems serve as both physical and visual deterrent to intruders, providing protection and peace of mind to safeguard every business.
Importance of Security Fencing for Businesses
Implementing commercial security fencing is not a decision that should be made lightly. These perimeter security additions offer a wide variety of benefits. Every benefit plays a role in protecting the business, as well as its resources and its reputation. Let’s dive deeper into some of these benefits and just what the importance of a security fence is:
- Crime Prevention
- Liability Reduction
- Asset Protection
- Perimeter Protection
Security fencing is a must for commercial operations, and we’re going to look at how it applies to each of these scenarios.
Crime Prevention
In recent years, certain types of crime have continually increased. This is particularly true of crimes like theft and vandalism, both of which impact commercial properties heavily. One of the top reasons that any business or commercial property chooses security fencing is to help prevent crime on the property.
A fence that is well-constructed and considers every point of entry is going to work significantly better at keeping out the intruders who would commit crime on the property. Fencing is designed to make it more difficult for those criminals to gain access to the property. In fact, in most cases, the presence of a fence alone is enough to deter many intruders.
The added difficulty risks them being more likely to get caught and makes it more difficult to commit the crime. Whether it’s vandalism, burglary, or trespassing, the fence makes them think longer and harder before actually taking action, and it may stop them altogether.
Many businesses choose to also use security gates and surveillance systems with their security fence design. Again, this contributes to the overall consideration of a complete security system and not just a fence to be a deterrent. The inclusion of multiple security features will amplify the effects.
Liability Reduction
Even when someone is committing a crime, a business has a certain responsibility for liability. Placing a fence helps to protect them and reduce their legal liability. A fence clearly says that not just anyone can enter. With a fence, when an unauthorized person gains access and then is harmed or causes harm, the business has protection against the liability of that incident.
Fences provide security, but they can also protect access in dangerous areas, such as in manufacturing, chemicals, or a construction site. Unprotected zones can pose a lot of hazards, and the business could be liable if proper precautions are not in place. However, installing security fences can reduce the risks of unauthorized access and trespassing. Being able to keep people out can protect the entity from lawsuits or insurance claims related to incidents and injuries from unauthorized access.
That fence is more than just security in this case. It’s proof that the property owners or managers have taken reasonable precautions to secure the premises and mitigate risks.
Asset Protection
Most commercial properties have a variety of assets on their property. These assets are valuable and could include anything from raw materials and equipment to confidential information that needs to be protected from the public. Installing security fencing provides a protective barrier against the world for these assets. The assets need to be kept safe from theft and other forms of damage.
The best way to begin protecting these valuables and information is through a security fencing solution. Most commercial properties will include additional safety measures for added protection, but your fencing is going to create the initial barrier and deterrent. This type of protection will be especially crucial for industries that deal with high-value goods or confidential information, such as manufacturing plants, retail warehouses, and data centers.
Perimeter Protection
Perimeter security starts with security fence systems. Even when the valuables and assets are safely tucked within a secure building, the perimeter should also be protected. Most commercial businesses have large properties at their disposal. Business doesn’t just start at the doors of their facilities. Not only does the property begin well before the building, but they likely also have parking lots for their employees. Adding security fences around the perimeter can provide some added security for the employees who are working on the property, and it establishes the perimeter and places the security around that area to separate the property from public areas.
Warehouses, factories, and distribution centers all have expansive environments. Security fence systems can be designed to allow only those who are authorized to even breach the perimeter. The coverage surrounding the property edges will make it easier to control the access points and secure the property from unauthorized use or entry.
With the use of high-quality security fences, trespassers are far more likely to be prevented or able to sneak onto the property through secluded areas. The perimeter approach will keep the business protected from all areas, including those that are often more vulnerable or less noticeable for unauthorized entry.
Types of Security Fencing for Industrial Properties
When a commercial or industrial property owner is ready to add security fencing, it is crucial to work with a qualified professional who can assess their needs and help to determine the right solution. There are many different types of security fencing solutions and even more additional details that can be incorporated to cater to the property demands.
Before making a decision, consider all of the options, assess the pros and cons of each solution, and listen to any recommendations from your provider. This will help ensure you make a decision that truly is the best consideration for your property. If you have budgetary restraints or design demands, you can often incorporate these into the final design of the selected fencing system.
METALCO Fencing Products
METALCO fencing products are manufactured in the USA, using top-grade preferred materials and only offer superior designs to provide high-security fencing solutions for every commercial and industrial need. We provide a wide array of materials and can customize designs with every last detail of the security project. We consider your budget, your design demands, and your security needs as we help you design a fencing solution that meets these needs.
Selecting the right type of security fencing for these properties is the most challenging part of the project. Working with a professional like Metalco will ensure you get all the information you need, as well as access to the best materials on the market for quality results. Every fencing type offers unique advantages and disadvantages based on factors such as durability, tamper resistance, and long-term performance. Below, we explore the most common types of fencing as well as their strengths and weaknesses.
These are the types of fencing materials we will cover:
- Ornamental steel grille
- Chain link fencing
- Welded wire mesh panel fencing
- Barbed wire fencing
- Palisade fencing
- Wood fencing
- Vinyl and composite fencing
Learn more about each of these and what Metalco offers below.
Ornamental Steel Grille
Ornamental steel grille fencing is incredibly robust, but it also provides some aesthetic appeal that other fencing solutions don’t have. At MFR, our Grigliato fencing represents the ornamental steel category. It is made with rigid construction, can provide varied levels of security, and is completely customizable to any client’s needs.
Grigliato is one of the most heavy-duty fence systems available in our arsenal of materials. It is a great fit for demanding applications. You can choose from custom designs or take advantage of a standard design if you prefer. Work with our engineering team to determine what is best for your needs, and ensure the design matches your needs. Grigliato is made of welded steel that is electro-forged, hot dip galvanized, and polyester coated to create a very durable and rigid structure.
This rigid construction is one of the most noteworthy details of ornamental steel grille fencing. Unlike many other options that could bend or sag over time or under heavy duress, this material will stand strong and rigid through the test of time and use. The rigid steel materials help to ensure a strong barrier that will be very difficult to breach and is unlikely to be cut through or tampered with for unauthorized accessibility.
Advantages of Grigliato
With Grigliato, you have the ability to incorporate various security needs. The fence is available in varying configurations to cater to a wide variety of demands. What is selected may depend on the unique security needs of your facility. This includes creating a build with smaller apertures to prevent climbing. The materials can also be created with heavier gauge steel materials to be further resistant to the possibility of cutting. Much like other solutions, other security measures can be included to create a heavily secure facility and perimeter.
The ability to customize is perhaps one of the greatest advantages of Grigliato fencing. It is incredibly versatile and can meet a wide variety of demands while offering superior security in the process. It can be customized for various levels of security and varying property needs. You can add gates and rail systems as well, easily adapting to the demands of the property and the specific requirements for security in that capacity. The materials are completely adaptable to meet these needs. The Metalco Grigliato system can be an excellent option for a screen wall, with customizations to accommodate for slope changes and varying heights. Furthermore, Grigliato fence products come in a wide range of spacing variations for customizable security level.
Finally, Grigliato provides the unique ability of quality aesthetics with incredible strength. This fencing material can be customized with color, integration of design details, and more. Security is the key, but facilities can rest assured they have access to security and pleasant visual appeal at the same time. When a public-facing business needs security and aesthetics, this system can make that happen without compromising any safety elements.
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Chain Link Security Fencing
Chain link fencing provides very little security; it is not a top choice for reliable security measures. While chain-link is inexpensive, it is very easy to climb and cut. Chain-link fencing is not ideal for perimeter security fencing.
Chain link fencing also uses a flexible metal material that is not rigid or high strength. While it can be cost-effective and versatile, it has many limitations that lead to it not always being ideal for practical security.
The challenge of chain link fencing for security purposes is that the structure lacks rigidity, it’s easy to cut with just some basic pliers or cutters, and it doesn’t have a very long lifespan. By the time you pay to add reinforcement or have to make repairs or even replace the fence, it becomes far more costly and provides far less security.
Basics of Chain Link Fences
Chain link fences are made with interwoven steel wires. While steel can be strong, this is typically a thin steel material that allows the fencing structure to be flexible. Unfortunately, that flexibility and thin design will not deter criminals who wish to access a property. They can easily find ways to get through, over, or around a chain link structure. In a low-security setting, chain link can certainly have its benefits, but when we’re looking at security, it simply is not going to keep intruders out.
Chain link materials are highly vulnerable to both climbing and cutting. They can be breached easily, which is why security is not a great use for this material. The woven wire actually creates handholds and footholds within the materials that make it easier to climb, granting further access to perpetrators. In addition, the weakness of the steel means that someone can easily cut through the links with simple bolt cutters, quickly creating an easy entry in the fencing.
Chain link fences are known for having a short lifespan as well. When they are exposed to weather or used in specific ways, they can rust easily, warp, or simply start to fall apart or bow under pressure.
Ideally, properties should consider alternatives to chain link fencing when it comes to determining appropriate security measures for a location. Consider breaking the chain-link habit by specifying a METALCO fencing system to offer superior protection, security, and longevity.
Welded Wire Mesh Panel Fencing
If chain link appeals to you but you want something that is superior, consider a welded wire mesh material. Our Twinbar and Amego options fall into this category and they are superior alternatives to chain link options. They are far more secure and durable overall, providing enhanced security against intrusion, while still offering affordability and versatility in the process.
Amego
Amego is our most affordable alternative to chain link fences. This material is secure and hard to climb, eliminating the handholds and footholds of chain link. It can also look very nice and be unobtrusive, creating a welcoming but secure look. Amego is innovative and can be made to be compatible with various landscaping, offering a unique bend and sizing in the materials to avoid climbing as well as cutting through the material.
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Twinbar
Our Twinbar fence system is another great alternative to chain link, with similar properties. This is a wire mesh fence system that stands out strong against all other wire mesh systems on the market. It has a high level of rigidity and security, as well as longevity. On top of that, it offers some style and elegance to your secure design. This particular solution is made with welded wire steel. That welded wire approach makes it more rigid than other comparable materials. The system uses two parallel horizontal wires and sandwiches a vertical wire between those for incredible strength that is practically indestructible.
Both the Twinbar and Amego systems provide superior structural integrity compared to chain link. They are a great mid-line price range that can be covered by most budgetary needs. The rigid nature of the materials ensures they cannot be cut through easily. In addition, they cannot be climbed easily due to a more narrow mesh spacing.
The materials and overall design of these makes them more resistant to tampering, providing a structure that is much harder to breach. Even industrial-grade cutting tools are not going to be easily able to cut through these materials. Can someone cut them? Possibly, but it certainly won’t be fast or easy to penetrate the fencing material here, and it requires specialty power tools. This creates a strong deterrent.
The welded wire design incorporated into these structures also helps contribute to a long-lasting structure that requires limited maintenance to provide security.
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Barbed Wire Fencing
Barbed wire is another secure option which can be added to security fencing. Because of the barbs, most intruders will avoid this material as they can cause physical harm. In some cases, another material will be used for the fencing structure and barbed wire is added as a barrier atop that structure, creating additional security that is common for areas like jails and prisons, as well as other locations that need added protection.
Our Securite fence system incorporates barbed wire materials if selected. Featuring a very tight mesh spacing, barbed wire can easily be added to the top of the fence for finite climbing security. Securite is guaranteed to last for 20 years. It is made with tight mesh spacing, which helps to create an anti-climb, anti-cut, and anti-ligature base of security.
With the ability to add measures like V-bends, razor wire, barbed wire, or other vandal-resistant measures, it can provide exceptional security. The addition of barbed wire to a fence with secure materials can be both a physiological and physical barrier when the details are considered. Most intruders will look at those materials and know that they do not want to attempt to go through them because of injury risks.
The Securite build makes the traditional fence design beneath the barbed wire tamper-resistant as well so that the fence can not be easily climbed, cut through, or dismantled in any way. There are plenty of anti-tampering features that can be included.
Palisade Fencing
Palisade fencing is common in industrial settings, but it is another solution that is not highly secure. If Palisade is what you are considering, we recommend an alternative like Grigliato to get something far more rigid and reliable. Palisade is a picket style of fence, and that style presents several downsides when it comes to security needs for a facility, particularly the industrial facilities that use it most.
The picket design is a very weak structure for security purposes. The pickets are often easy to bend. They are attached to vertical rails, but they can be bent or broken with some pressure application. In addition, many people are able to reach through the gaps, which allows intruders easier access to reach things on the other side. Finally, the picket material is easy to bend or cut with simple wire or bolt cutters, making it too easy for an intruder to simply cut right through it and do as they please.
Wood Fencing
Wood fencing can look nice, but it’s yet another option that simply won’t provide much security. It is often chosen for its aesthetic appeal and the potential privacy it offers. However, its advantages stop there. When it comes to industrial security, wood is not likely to fit the need.
Wood fencing can be climbed very easily, but it’s also a weak structure. People can break it or cut through it with ease. The elements of exterior life, such as heat, moisture, or cold can cause this wood to weaken, crack, rot, or warp, which makes it more susceptible to failure as well.
Wood simply is not very durable and won’t have the strength to stand up to an intruder.
Vinyl and Composite Fencing
Finally, vinyl and composite materials are not recommended for security fencing. These are often very cheaply made and will not provide security. They are lightweight and insecure. Many facilities use them for the low cost, but they are almost worthless when it comes to providing security to a property.
Why is Security Fencing Important for Your Business?
Security fencing is more than just adding a physical barrier from the business property to the outside world. While it stands as a physical barrier, there are other details that are important to consider here. This is a barrier that will play a significant role in protecting your business. It safeguards your assets, protects everything about the business, and could possibly even enhance your corporate image because of added protection and security.
These are the main reasons security fencing is so important:
- Protect Against Theft and Vandalism: perhaps the most obvious use of security fencing is to protect against theft and vandalism on any type of business property. From raw materials to heavy equipment and everything in between, these things could easily be targets for criminals who want to make a quick buck or expose you to risks and hardship.
- Establish Boundaries and Access Control: security fencing puts a boundary around the perimeter, defining just where that perimeter is and determining who can or cannot access the other side of the fencing. The boundaries are clearly marked, limiting external foot traffic and providing access points that can be controlled in whatever way works for your facility.
- Enhancing Corporate Image and Professionalism: security is the main concern, but adding security measures can provide professionalism in a business image with the demonstration that security is important. In addition, customized designs boost curb appeal in many ways.
Common Safety and Protection Features to Include in a Security Fence
Choosing a fence material is one thing, but security doesn’t stop there. Typically, you can consider additional measures to incorporate into the overall fence design. This is why Metalco provides a wide array of materials and fence designs. No security fencing is going to be one-size-fits-all, so we have to consider amplified needs of different business security measures and requirements.
These are some of the best additional features to consider.
Climb Resistance
An anti-climbing design is vital, as that will be the first way an intruder tries to overcome your security. Options like Securite fencing incorporate anti-climbing features so that isn’t even an option when they are planning their means of entry. The overall build and design of this structure makes it impossible or extremely difficult to attempt to scale. Details such as rigidity and apertures will ensure there are no handholds, footholds, or flexibility for climbing.
Visibility
While security is vital, many times having visibility is just as essential. There are materials out there that limit visibility but don’t provide the security to go with it. Metalco’s Grigliato solution provides clear sight lines while ensuring rigidity and inability to breach the materials for their strength and design. With the proper design, personnel can properly survey the property with their visibility needs, but they can also be assured that the fence mechanism is effective.
Integrated Security Systems
Almost any fence material can be combined with integrated security systems, which most industrial and commercial facilities have in place. Metalco products can be manufactured to work with various integrations, such as access control, gate system, camera feeds, and wiring for lighting needs.
Access Control
While security is important, it is also crucial to ensure that authorized parties can access the property without excessive complication. Gates and entry systems are a great way to facilitate this need while also maintaining security. These systems can be included in any security fence design and will ensure restricted access, ADA compliance, and more.
Determining the Best Height for a Security Fence
Choosing the height for a security fence system can be challenging. That is why it is so important to work with professionals who can help you determine the best approach and work through the details. There are several things to consider.
These are the recommended heights for common applications:
- Residential or commercial properties: 6-8 feet
- Industrial sites: 8-12 feet
- High security facilities: 12 feet minimum (sometimes 40+ feet)
- Specialty applications: based on requirements
Metalco has solutions that can exceed 40 feet when the need arises, based on the environment and provided security needs of the site. Visit our project portfolio page to view just some of our capabilities in providing security fencing solutions.
Some locations have specific regulations or requirements to adhere to. For example, a correctional facility fence must be a minimum of 12 feet in height, but they often are much higher. Schools generally require 6-8 feet for their fences. Facilities should be familiar with industry requirements, local ordinances, federal guidelines, and ADA compliance as they make these decisions.
Metalco provides customized solutions with a range of options that can cover your needs, including standard 6-feet fences clear to 40-foot towering enclosures.
Basic Requirements for Security Fencing
When installing security fencing, it’s important to be aware of and meet the basic requirements of such structures. The security fence system needs to be compliant while also being effective for long-term use.
These details are typically basic requirements:
- Zoning Laws and Regulations: know the height limits, any setback requirements, and the permit needs of the area as well as the industry. Check local zoning laws to remain in compliance with each aspect.
- Material Standards and Durability: the right material can make a substantial difference in security and choosing the right material will ensure your fence provides the security it needs. Select durable materials like steel or aluminum and focus on weather-resistant solutions that won’t easily break down from heat, cold, and moisture.
- Maintenance Considerations: maintenance is vital, and understanding maintenance of the selected materials is just as important. Metalco provides guarantees on each of our fencing structures, so be sure to check those details. In addition, be familiar with material maintenance needs, such as regular inspections, hardware upkeep, and recoating or repainting.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Industrial Security Fencing
It is important to know that every business site is going to have unique needs. When you are choosing fencing materials and working with your provider, make sure you consider factors that are relevant to you. Share these factors with companies like Metalco to ensure you get the results you need in security fencing.
These are important elements to consider:
- Purpose and specific needs of the security fence system
- The environmental conditions that might impact materials
- Budget constraints and capabilities for fence establishment
- Long-term maintenance requirements and durability of the fence selection
What to Look for in a Security Fencing Manufacturer
When you are choosing a provider for security fencing, there are some things you should consider. It’s not always about cost or even using a company just because you’ve heard their name before. Instead, focus on finding a qualified and experienced provider that can cater to your needs and has a proven reputation to back their experience.
These are some things you should look for:
- Industry reputation for quality products and workmanship
- Commitment to quality assurance and materials
- Design capabilities
- Available warranties and security features
- Customer service and support practices
- Testimonials, case studies, and customer feedback
- Compliance with the Buy America Act for products made in the USA
Applications of Security Fencing
Throughout this guide, we’ve mentioned terms like businesses or commercial and industrial properties. These are broad terms. The truth is that any type of business property can benefit from security fencing systems.
Check out these common applications:
- Prison fencing
- Stadium fencing
- Airport fencing
- Government facility fencing
- Mental health facility enclosures
- Animal enclosures (zoos and similar locations)
- Chemical plant fencing
- College and university fencing
- Warehouses, retail facilities, and manufacturing plants
- Balcony railings
This is not an inclusive list, but rather an expression of how versatile security fencing can be. It can be created and manipulated to cater to a wide variety of security needs.
There are so many different levels of security fencing available and solutions for every single one. Metalco has the ability to tailor fencing solutions to match specific threats or needs. It is important to assess all of the details before making a decision on fencing design.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right security fencing to meet your location and facility needs is the most critical part of the process. You don’t have to make this decision lightly or on your own. We highly encourage you to consult qualified professionals to meet your needs, whatever they may be.
Contact MFR Corp today for customized security fencing solutions and to schedule a consultation. We can help you work through the details. We’ll provide you with a detailed quote and recommendations that fit your unique fence and security needs.