Is Triple Point Palisade a Security Fence?

For many years people have relied on fencing to protect property. Several decades ago chainlink fencing (read our blog on what is chainlink fencing) was widely used as a security fence and at the time it served its purpose. As security needs changed and as new products were developed it became clear that chainlink would no longer meet the requirements of modern protection. It is now considered unsuitable for any site that needs a serious level of security.

Move forward to a couple of decades ago and triple point palisade became one of the most common types of fence used for security. The design was seen as strong, simple and affordable and it was installed around industrial estates, utilities and commercial sites and even schools across the country. 

For a time it was the standard choice for anyone who wanted to stop casual trespass.

An example of a triple point palisade fence showing the bolts that attach the pales to the rail and the rail to the posts.

However security threats have increased and the expectations placed on perimeter fencing have moved on. The weaknesses of triple point palisade are now well recognised. 

• The pales can be forced apart with the right tools. 
• The bolts can be attacked and removed. 
• The profile creates footholds that can be used when climbing. 

Once these issues were understood it became clear that triple point palisade should not be relied on for modern security unless a tested and certified version is chosen.

The image above demonstrates how vulnerable a triple-point palisade fence can be and how easily it may be compromised by removing a couple of visible fixings.

Panel-to-Post Connection (Bolt circled in red)

This connection consists of a rail bolted to the post. Although the bolt often uses a shear nut on the reverse side, it can be removed with a small portable tool such a multi tool, saw or hammer/screwdriver or even a pair of grips. Once removed, the rails can be detached from the posts. This creates an opening that allows a person to pass through the fence and, depending on post spacing, could even permit vehicle access.

Pale-to-Rail Connection (Bolt circled in blue)

This is where the pales are bolted to the rails. Again, the bolt typically uses shear nuts, but these can be removed with basic tools. Another common method of removing pales is by levering them with a large piece of wood. Each pale is secured by a bolt at the top rail and another at the bottom. When one bolt is removed, the pale can be swung aside, creating a gap for easy access. Once inside, the pale can be repositioned, making the breach difficult to detect. This technique has historically been used by pupils to leave school grounds unnoticed and, more seriously, by intruders to access high-security sites without detection during perimeter checks.  In the image above, on the left the image, the red arrow shows where a pale has been removed.

Triple Point Palisade Appearance

Appearance is another critical issue when considering triple point palisade fencing. While it delivers a  physical barrier and can be a deterrent to stop climbing, its harsh industrial look makes it unsuitable for locations where visual appeal is important. Modern developments often demand fencing that combines performance with a positive aesthetic; in these situations, palisade fencing can work against the overall design of a site.

Powder coating can improve the finish, but it does not change the fundamental problem: triple point palisade still looks unattractive. There are applications where appearance alone should rule out its use. This includes any site where visual impact affects functionality or user experience, which also aligns with principles such as CPTED (Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design).

Examples of sectors where palisade fencing is inappropriate include schools, care homes, public service facilities, and business premises. In these environments, a product that makes the site resemble a prison can negatively influence first impressions, visitor perception, and even the wellbeing of pupils or residents.

Triple Point Palisade Today

Triple point palisade is best viewed as a demarcation fence rather than a true security solution. It can mark boundaries and deter casual entry, but it should not be relied upon for genuine security unless a certified, security-rated version is used.

In most cases, sites that require higher protection choose either a certified palisade system or a vertical bar style fence. These alternatives offer improved strength, better resistance to tampering, and a far more acceptable appearance.

There are situations where security and aesthetics are less of a concern, such as industrial or waste sites where fencing is hidden from view. In these cases, triple point palisade can still serve its purpose effectively.

Mesh security panels are now more popular and also very common, providing excellent protection when specified correctly. However not all mesh systems are equal. Cheap mesh security panels can create significant weaknesses and we have highlighted these issues in our separate blog on the dangers of cheap mesh security panels.

In summary triple point palisade can still have a place but only when expectations are realistic. For genuine security it is important to choose a certified system or consider alternatives such as vertical bar fencing or properly specified mesh panels that offer greater strength and a more attractive finish.