Safe Perimeter Security with 358 Mesh Fencing

--

Often simply called anti climb mesh, security mesh or even prison mesh, 358 mesh fencing is synonymous with robust perimeter security. In this post we clarify exactly what 358 mesh fencing is and demonstrate how we use it to cost-effectively enhance existing security fencing.

What is 358 Mesh?

358 Mesh is a welded wire mesh made from high grade steel. This form of mesh fencing is widely used in high security applications and environments such as prisons and military establishments. The robust steel wire and tough welded joints make the security fencing extremely difficult to penetrate, even with bolt cutters and wire cutters. And the small mesh dimensions are the key feature that makes this mesh impossible to climb.

358 mesh fencing panels are generally galvanised for durability and can be powder coated after galvanisation for further protection.

Why is it Called 358 Mesh?

The name ‘358 mesh’ describes the dimensions of the mesh. Each aperture (measured between the bar centres) is 3 inches long (75mm), 0.5 inches high (12.5mm) and made from 8 gauge steel wire, which is approximately 4 mm thick. Anti climb 356 mesh, with thicker steel wire, and 3510 mesh fencing, using thinner steel wire, are also used in some applications.

How High Should a Security Fence Be?

Establishing and maintaining the highest level of security is essential for most professional establishments, especially schools, sports facilities, government properties and secure premises such as prisons and psychiatric hospitals. Perimeter security fencing around properties such as these tends to be at least 2 metres high and often extends to 3 metres or higher, with 3 metres being a popular choice for general applications. Security fencing in high risk environments such as prisons is typically in excess of 5 metres high.

For private properties in the UK the maximum height allowed for fencing in back gardens and between neighbouring properties is 2 metres. And in front gardens, or where fencing is next to a highway, the maximum height is just 1 metre. For anything higher than this planning permission is generally required. 358 Security mesh fencing isn`t normally used in domestic settings.

When considering the height of security fencing its essential to check with the relevant local authority for their rules and regulations. And if the fencing affects neighbouring properties it`s always a good idea to have a chat with them before making any changes.

How to Make an Existing Fence More Secure and Safe

Increasing the height of existing fencing is one of the primary ways to make it more secure. If the existing fencing consists of standard security fence panels, or maybe chain link fencing, then preventing handholds by overlaying the top 1 metre with 358 mesh fence panels provides a highly effective security enhancement while installing Roller Barrier along the fence-top safely increases the height.

Enhancing Existing Security Fencing

While 358 anti climb security fencing is highly effective it`s also expensive. Many establishments simply don’t have the budgets to afford expensive anti climb 358 mesh fencing everywhere. Most will typically use lower cost chain-link fencing or standard security fencing, but this can result in areas of vulnerability where anti climb protection is inadequate yet essential.

We are a 358 Wire mesh fence manufacturer. If you are interested in our products, please contact us now!