In this guide, our experts offer their take on what palisade fencing actually is, why it’s such a popular choice for securing sites, and how Lochrin Bain continues to push the boundaries with its advanced steel fencing systems.
What is a Palisade? (What Does Palisade Mean?)
Originally, the word palisade referred to rows of wooden stakes, hammered into the ground to form a defensive wall – this old idea hasn’t disappeared (it’s just been modernised). Today, palisade fencing takes the same basic principle and reinforces it with steel, turning a centuries-old concept into a reliable solution for present-day perimeter security.
Instead of wood, you’ve now got vertical steel sections known as pales, lined up and secured to horizontal support rails. The result? A rigid, visible, no-nonsense barrier that’s built to resist intrusion. From power stations to school grounds, these fences send a clear signal: entry isn’t welcome.
What Makes Up a Palisade Fence?
Understanding how palisade fencing is constructed gives a better idea of why it works so well.
Here is a generalised make up of a steel palisade fence:
- Pales – These are the upright steel profiled sections that make up the bulk of the fence. They’re usually pointed at the top to discourage climbing, but can also be splayed to form a triple pointed head, or rounded for areas where anti-climb deterrents are not required
- Rails – These are the horizontal steel angles that run across the back of the pales, holding them together securely. Lochrin Bain also offer a patented rail design where the pales pass through the rails into a vee slot design for increased security.
- Posts – These are anchored into the ground and act as the main support structure for the whole fencing system. Baseplated options are also available for bolting down if a dig in option is not available.
The overall design detailed above results in a rigid, tamper-resistant perimeter fencing system that’s difficult to breach, even in its basic form.
Why Do People Choose Palisade Fencing?
Here are just a few reasons why people often choose palisade fencing over other types of fence.
1. Security
Palisade fencing has one main job – to stop people gaining access to areas they shouldn’t. Its pointed tops, vertical pales, horizontal rails and solid steel construction act as a powerful deterrent, making it difficult to climb, cut through or tamper with.
2. Durability
Made from high-quality steel (galvanised to help prevent rust), palisade fences are designed to last. They hold up against the elements, and you won’t need to worry about constant upkeep or replacements.
3. Flexibility
Palisade fencing can be tailored to different applications, risk levels and access requirements. From low to high-security applications, it’s versatile enough to meet a wide range of needs whilst remaining neat and professional in appearance.
Installation Considerations
Before choosing to install palisade, it’s worth thinking about the following:
- The Terrain – Does your premises feature uneven ground that may need additional prep work or foundations?
- Fence Height – How high does your fence need to be? Higher fences offer more security but may require planning permission depending on your local authority.
- Fence Colour/Finish – Most palisade products are available with different colours/finishes. Will you go with a traditional bare metal appearance, or opt for powder coating in your choice of RAL colour?
- Access Points – Do you need to integrate vehicle gates, pedestrian entry, or other access controls into your perimeter security solution?
- Professional Installation – Which fencing company will you choose to supply/install your new fence? Getting it done right the first time means your fence will perform better and last longer.
Fortunately, the team here at Lochrin Bain are on hand to offer support and advice on the above considerations, helping you choose an effective solution for your own specific needs.
Lochrin Bain’s Palisade Fencing Range
With a history dating back to the 1800s, we have built a reputation for innovative, high-performance fencing solutions that are today considered to be some of the best in the industry. Our systems are designed to address real-world security challenges, helping you to secure what you need to protect.
Our steel palisade range is comprised of the following core products:
- Lochrin Classic™ – This is one of our more popular systems and uses a rivetless design where the vertical pales pass through v-shaped slots in the horizontal rails, allowing for greater protection, faster installation times and a cleaner finish.
- Lochrin Combi™ – This is another rivetless system developed in-house by our team of engineers. We are proud to have achieved Secured by Design status on this product which has also been fully tested and accredited to H.M Government standards.
- Lochrin Palisade™ – This is our standard palisade fencing system which is still very popular with customers all over the UK. This product features vertical pales that are attached to the horizontal rails with rivets, offering a more affordable perimeter security solution.
- Enhanced Security Options – For critical infrastructure and sensitive locations, we have also developed a range of products that adhere to various industry standards such as LPS 1175 (A1, B3 & SR3) and Secured by Design.
Final Thoughts
From small industrial units to critical infrastructure, Lochrin Bain supplies fencing systems designed to perform. Engineered with care and backed by decades of experience, our range helps take the pressure off – so you can concentrate on the job at hand, not the fence around it.
If you would like to discuss how we can help protect your perimeter, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with our friendly team of experts who will be more than happy to assist you with your enquiry.
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