Have you ever wondered what those solid metal posts installed in many public places, like parks, storefronts, or parking lots, are? Incredibly common, they are easily ignored but play a critical role for many businesses. They are steel bollards. These bollards help secure the safety of pedestrians as well as protect commercial properties from ram raids. Temporary bollards can also be used for traffic management and are more common than many realise.
How High Should Bollards be?
Stainless Steel bollards come in different sizes. That is because they are used for different purposes in different areas. Their size usually ranges from 30″ to 48″ tall.
But their average height is 1 metre because most automobiles are around 1.5m tall. Their height makes them easily seen by people, especially drivers. So the standard size of bollards is ideal for preventing vehicles from passing through any restricted area.
However, it is worth knowing that it is the width & type of bollards that makes them durable, not their height. That is why, simply, the thicker the steel bollard (amongst other factors), the heavier impact it can withstand.
How are Bollards Installed?
Bollard installation is critical for the bollard to function correctly, so it is important to get right. When you install bollards properly, you can be sure that they will function at their maximum efficiency, and you won’t be left wondering why they didn’t stop that vehicle.
However, you must remember that the installation process varies greatly depending on which type of bollard you are trying to install.
Typical installations are below:
- Bolt-down bollards. These can be installed via bolts drilled into the ground but are typically cheaper & faster to install. However, don’t carry the strength of other installation types.
- In Ground bollards. These are installed with a good portion underground and reinforced with concrete to apply superior strength to the bollard.
- Retractable bollards. These are also installed below the ground and reinforced with concrete; however, their retractable nature does not provide as much structural strength as a permanent installation.
So before the installation process, you should know the specific requirements for your particular bollards. You may either do the installation yourself or hire a contractor, but if unsure, it is best left to the professionals.
Do You Need Planning Permission for Bollards?
As mentioned earlier, concrete or steel bollards can often be seen in parking lots or in front of establishments like banks. But the question is – when you want to install bollards, do you need planning permission?
The answer is simple – planning permission is always required when bollards are installed in a public space. On the other hand, if you own the property where the bollards are to be installed, there is no need for permission. Make sure that the space where you plan to erect concrete or steel bollards is not public property.
Tips before Buying Bollards
- Know the purpose of the bollard and select the correct bollard for the job. Not all bollards are capable of all tasks; consult a professional like Image Bollards if you are unsure, and we can help you select the correct bollard.
- If you cannot install bollards on your own, hire somebody who can. Installation can play a major role in the effectiveness of a bollard, so it is critical that this is also done correctly.
- Maintain your bollards regularly to ensure their longevity. Speak to a professional for tips on how to get the most out of your bollards.
At Image Extra, we pride ourselves on being the experts on everything to do with Bollards! We’d love to chat and point you in the right direction, so if you are unsure where to start or even need bollards, call 1300 366 999 and speak to our friendly experts today!