It’s generally understood that the fence around the perimeter of high-value buildings and facilities, like the White House, is different from standard fencing that is found around many residential properties. What you might not know, however, is exactly how security fencing differs from standard fencing and what makes it more secure.
Height
Standard fencing around homes is typically between 4 and 6 feet tall, with only the most extreme examples reaching 8 feet in height. Security fences, on the other hand, are regularly higher than 6 feet tall, reaching as high as 14 feet at high-risk facilities such as prisons and military bases.
Weight
While lightweight fencing, such as vinyl and aluminum, is commonly recommended for standard fencing due to the ease of installation, security fencing is made of materials that are heavier and sturdier than what is typical. Security fencing needs to be resilient to damage from impact as well as strain due to extreme weather conditions, while standard fencing doesn’t need to be quite so strong.
Materials
While wood and vinyl fencing is common for residential properties due to their added privacy, affordability, and visual appeal—these fences are not appropriate for security fencing. Security fencing is always metal, set up in various ways because it offers visibility and durability that materials such as wood and vinyl do not.
Accessories
Security fencing is often accessorized with further security measures such as sharp spiked at the top, razor wire, security cameras, and other things. These additions make the fence even more secure, but they don’t offer a pleasant or welcoming visual. This isn’t an appropriate look for residential properties, but it’s critical for businesses and high-risk properties to keep tight security around their perimeter.
Installation
Installation of security fencing is different from standard fencing because it has to keep the entire perimeter secure by blocking any potential entry—which includes below the ground. Security fencing is often installed significantly further into the ground to prevent both animals and people from being able to dig underneath it to gain access to the property.
Crash Rating
Some security fencing has a crash rating. These ratings detail how well the fence will stand up to vehicular impact depending on the size and speed of the vehicle. Crash-rated fencing is often reserved for security fences that protect high-risk facilities such as government buildings and factories that handle dangerous materials, among others.
Choose Hercules High Security to Protect Your Property
Whether you need White House-level security fencing, or you need the perfect version of a white picket fence to guard your business or residential property, trust the experts at Hercules High Security. For more information and to learn how we can meet your custom fencing needs, contact Hercules High Security online or give us a call at 1-800-395-9597. Our professionals are ready to serve you from Maryland and the Washington Metropolitan area to Richmond, Virginia. We have branch offices in Manassas, Richmond, Newport News, Norfolk, Virginia, and Maryland. We will ensure your investment serves your family and your business for years to come! For updates and to see projects we’re working on, visit us on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Pinterest.