Home Security Fences

In order to maximize the security potential of your new fence, you need to choose the type that's right for your property, climate, and budget. Here are a few of the most common types of security fences and the features that make them unique.

Chain link fence: An affordable form of fencing used on commercial and residential properties. Sold by the foot, chain link fencing is suspended between evenly spaced steel fence posts and supported at the top by a tension wire. 

Vinyl fence: A vinyl fence may be made to imitate wood or metal fence material or may be added to an existing chain link fence for added strength and security. Vinyl is a flexible material that is easy to clean and available in many colors. 

Wooden fence: This is a traditional form of fencing, popular on residential properties. The height of a wooden fence can vary, as can the width and placement of each fence unit. 

A fence's security depends on the material it's made from, its height, and its thickness. However, even the tallest and thickest fence is poor security if no thought has been given to gates and locks. Your gates can be secured by a single lock or multiple ones.

Key lock: A standard mechanical cylinder lock with internal tumblers. This can be installed with basic tools and changed as necessary. 

Electronic lock: These locks are secured by a numerical keypad and/or electronic card reader and can be reprogrammed for added security. A gate with an electronic lock will secure automatically when it closes.

Slide latch: Offering minimal security, a slide latch functions to keep the gate close rather than to seriously deter unauthorized persons. However, more advanced models can be secured with a padlock or combination lock.

Locking latch: Similar to a slide lock, a latch will keep a gate securely closed though will not provide added security unless locked by the user. Modern latches have a space for the addition of a padlock; once in place, the padlock prevents the latch from operating. 

The security fence you choose and have installed is a long-term investment in home security and in the value of your property. To get the most out of your fence and other security features, carefully consider your options before making a final decision; revising your fence at a later date can be very expensive. Consider any children you have in your family. Do you want a gate that secures automatically so they can't open it from inside the yard or are you more comfortable with one that they can use as necessary? How will your pets impact the fence - and vice versa? And finally, what is your budget? 

Your home's security should be one of your top priorities. By making wise decisions about fences, gates, and locks, you can significantly add to your properties overall security.