According to the FBI’s annual report, property crimes decreased by 4.5% across the USA during 2020.
No one knows if things will stay that way now that we’re all heading back out into the open. Just like everyone else, criminals are probably eager to get back in business again, so you can never take too many precautions to keep your belongings safe.
Security fence systems are one of the best ways to ensure the criminal element stays out of your home, so check out these options for choosing a security fence to keep your family safe and secure.
Considerations for Choosing a Security Fence
While we’d all like to have carte blanche when it comes to choosing exterior features for our home, many of us live in housing developments, neighborhoods, and communities that have standards when it comes to fencing.
So, the first step in choosing the best security fence for you is finding out if there are any rules or by-laws that affect your choice. Once you know about any restrictions, you can base your security fence ideas on the considerations listed below.
Avoid Horizontal Rails
The first role of fence security is to make it difficult for criminals to enter your property. That means you want a fence that’s difficult to climb.
Even an eight-foot fence is easy to scale when it’s got horizontal footholds that enable climbing. For this reason, it’s important to choose a fence that’s either solid or has vertical rails.
A fence with a small block pattern, like a chain link security fence, prevents anyone from gaining a foothold.
Cut Off Access Points
Intruders can simply walk through any gaps in your fence, or go around a fence that doesn’t enclose your entire property. Likewise, if an intruder can go under or climb through your fence, nothing is stopping them from entering your domain.
Make sure your fence posts are securely embedded in concrete so that nobody can push them over or remove them to gain access. No matter which type of fence you choose, pick a matching gate so that there’s no weak area to allow access.
A self-closing latch prevents anyone from wiggling their hand through to open the gate.
Visibility Issues
Solid fences, like wood paneling, do give criminals somewhere to hide when they’re trying to access your property. However, these fences also have several benefits.
For instance, these fences prevent onlookers from seeing into your yard. This makes it difficult for intruders to see what’s on offer or plan their attack.
Solid fences also hide the whereabouts of people and dogs in your yard, so they’re a big deterrent for anyone who’s planning on entering your property.
At the very least, climbing over a wood fence slows criminals down and gives you time to plan defensive measures. They also provide a mental barrier for intruders.
Click to find out more about the different types of wood fences and what they can and can’t do for your security.
Types of Security Fences
While wood fences are an attractive and suitable choice for most homes, they don’t suit every style of home or appeal to everyone’s taste. If you’d prefer something else, you might consider one of the following:
Metal Security Fences
Steel is a good option for security fences since it’s extremely durable and strong. It’s an expensive choice since you’ll need to treat it against rust regularly or buy a pre-treated fence.
Aluminum fencing is more affordable, lighter, and repels rust, but it’s not as strong as steel.
These are your options when choosing a metal fence:
Chain Link Fences
Chain link fencing works extremely well as a security measure. They’re easy to install, versatile, and difficult to scale.
Modern chain link fences are resistant to cutting and are a good choice for both commercial and residential applications. Some homeowners don’t like the industrial look of chain links, although from a distance it’s almost invisible.
Other modern designs have decorative elements, while plain chain link fencing suits most types of homes.
Ornamental Fences
Ornamental metal fences usually feature strong vertical bars with spikes on top. This makes them incredibly difficult to climb.
This type of fencing suits luxury properties, especially those with a colonial design or historic features. When designed and installed correctly, ornamental fences are an excellent security measure.
Due to the versatility of metal, you can choose from a wide range of styles when it comes to this type of fencing, so work with our contractor to find one that suits both your security and decorative needs.
Vinyl Fencing
Vinyl fencing is a modern alternative to steel and other more established fencing materials. It’s lightweight, sturdy, and easy to maintain.
This type of fencing is also infinitely customizable and available in almost any color. It’s available in post and rail configurations, panels, and vertical bars.
Manufacturers can style vinyl to mimic any type of fence. Vinyl is an expensive option, but it can last for over ten years without any maintenance at all.
On the downside, vinyl isn’t as strong as steel, and many homeowners don’t like the way it looks. If you’re hesitant to install a vinyl fence, it’s best to work with a contractor to discover more about what this type of fence offers.
Security Starts With Your Home
A security fence is an important deterrent to thieves and vandals, but your home is the main thing you want to protect. If your neighborhood regulations prevent you from installing the fence you want, there are other security measures you can put in place.
Exterior lights and alarm systems can do a lot to deter criminals and keep them off your turf. These measures also add appeal to your home if you decide to sell it.
If you’d like to find out more about how to add value to your home, browse some more of our articles.
