Types of Security Fencing

Understanding the different types of security fencing is essential when designing or specifying a secure perimeter. Not all fences offer the same level of protection, and many systems described as security fencing provide little more than visual deterrence.

A true security fence is designed to deter unauthorised access and prevent someone easily getting through or over it. This includes resisting common attack methods such as removing pales or panels, cutting through the fence fabric, or climbing over the top. The appropriate type of security fencing will depend on the site, the risk level and what is being protected.

What makes a security fence

Regardless of the type, effective security fencing shares several core characteristics. It should be difficult to cut, dismantle or remove using basic hand tools. The design should minimise footholds and handholds to prevent climbing. Fixings should be tamper resistant and inaccessible from the outside. The fence must also be robust enough to withstand sustained attack without rapid failure.

For higher security applications, or where users do not want a fence that can be easily penetrated or climbed, the main types of security fencing generally fall into two primary categories.

Vertical bar railings as security fencing

Vertical bar railings are one of the most established and widely specified types of security fencing. They are commonly used on commercial, industrial and public sector sites where both security and appearance are important.

These systems consist of steel vertical bars fixed to horizontal rails, creating a rigid and durable structure. The most secure vertical bar railings use a pale through the rail construction. In this design, the vertical pales pass completely through the horizontal rails and are fixed in place, making them impossible to remove from the outside.

High security vertical bar fencing also incorporates hidden fixings or concealed connectors. Removing exposed fixings reduces the risk of tampering and dismantling. When combined with tightly spaced pales and a smooth vertical profile, this type of security fencing offers excellent resistance to climbing and forced entry.

Close mesh security fencing

Close mesh fencing is specifically designed to prevent climbing and cutting and is one of the most commonly specified types of security fencing for high risk environments. It uses tightly woven steel wires with very small apertures, meaning fingers and toes cannot gain a purchase.

The most well known close mesh system is 358 mesh, often referred to as prison mesh. This style is widely used across utilities, data centres, transport infrastructure and schools due to its strong resistance to cutting and climbing.

For sites requiring higher levels of protection, double skinned close mesh fencing is frequently specified. In recent years, other close mesh variants engineered specifically for high security applications have entered the market and typically achieve strong LPS 1175 security ratings.

Close mesh fencing is often chosen where high security is required alongside good visibility through the perimeter.

The most important element when choosing a close mesh system is selecting one with a long manufacturer guarantee. There has been an influx of cheap mesh entering the market, and this is causing fences to rust and require replacement after five years. These cheap mesh fences are not considered security fencing unless they are only needed for a short period of time. You can read our blog on the rise and risks of cheap mesh for further guidance.  Also read our blog on the types of mesh security panels.

Acoustic security barriers as security fencing

Acoustic security barriers represent a different type of security fencing, providing both physical protection and environmental control. Unlike traditional open fencing systems, acoustic barriers are solid in construction and are used as standalone security fences.

Their design usually includes no gaps, meaning there are no foot or handholds, which makes them extremely difficult to climb. Their solid and often thick construction also makes acoustic security barriers challenging to cut through.

Alongside their security performance, acoustic barriers reduce noise transmission and help limit light pollution. Timber acoustic security fencing can resemble standard garden fencing, reducing visual impact and avoiding the appearance of a high security facility.

For higher risk sites, acoustic security barriers are available with LPS 1175 ratings, providing independently tested and certified security performance.

Again look for long manufacturer guarantees like 25 years.  

Electric fencing and PIDS

Electric fencing and perimeter intrusion detection systems are often associated with high security sites but are not security fences in their own right. They are accessories that enhance a primary fence line rather than replace it.

Electric fencing delivers a controlled shock to deter intrusion, while perimeter intrusion detection systems detect attempts to climb, cut or tamper with the fence and trigger an alert. These systems are most effective when combined with robust physical security fencing.

Fence types often mistaken for security fencing

Some fence types are frequently described as security fencing but are better classed as demarcation fencing due to their vulnerabilities.

• Mesh fencing with larger apertures or thinner wires can usually be cut quickly and may be easy to climb.
• Palisade fencing can appear secure but may be vulnerable if pales can be bent, removed or cut. Read our blog on whether Triple Point Palisade is a security fence. 
• Chain link fencing defines boundaries clearly but offers limited resistance to cutting or climbing.

Security fencing standards and ratings

When comparing different types of security fencing, independent testing and certification are critical. LPS 1175 is the most widely recognised security standard for fencing in the UK and assesses resistance to forced entry over defined attack periods.

LPS 1175 has become the primary specification standard following the removal of the UK Home Office fence ratings in January 2026.

Specifying security fencing that has been tested to LPS 1175 provides confidence that the system will perform as expected in real world attack scenarios.

Choosing the right type of security fencing

Selecting the correct type of security fencing requires a clear understanding of the risks, the site environment and the required level of protection. High security sites typically combine robust fencing systems, certified performance standards and, where necessary, additional deterrent or detection measures.

By understanding the strengths and limitations of different types of security fencing, specifiers and end users can make informed decisions that balance security, appearance and long term performance.  With mesh and timber products it it important to look for long guarantees, Jacksons security fencing is always worth investigating when you care about longevity.