Types of Temporary Fencing
Temporary fencing provides affordable, quick barriers for security, safety or privacy on a short-term basis. There are several types of temporary fencing options to suit different needs. By understanding the main types available and their features, you can determine the best temporary fencing choice for your particular situation.
Types of Temporary Fencing
Popular options for temporary fencing include:
Plastic Mesh Fencing
Plastic mesh fencing offers an economical and reusable Temporary Fencing solution. Sturdy interlocking plastic mesh panels have small holes to block visibility and create a barrier.
Pros:
- Inexpensive
- Portable and reusable
- Easy DIY installation
- Available in varying heights up to 6 feet
- Good wind resistance
Cons:
- Not the most durable or secure option
- Can sag or get damaged over time
- Visually unattractive
Uses: Construction sites, special events, pets/animals, pool safety
Concrete Construction Barriers
Concrete jersey barriers provide sturdy partitioning on roadways and construction zones. These precast concrete blocks can also be used as short-term heavy-duty fencing.
Pros:
- Extremely strong and durable
- Difficult to move or knock over
- Weather resistant
- Create solid visual barrier
Cons:
- Very heavy, requiring equipment to install and move
- Can damage underground utilities if driven in
- Not aesthetically pleasing
Uses: Construction sites, temporary access control
Chain Link Fencing
Chain link fencing offers flexible, see-through partitioning great for crowd control and security. Interlocking metal wire panels are secured on posts.
Pros:
- Cost effective and simple installation
- Allows visibility
- Choose galvanized, vinyl or poly coatings
- Hardware allows various configurations
- Temporary or permanent
Cons:
- Provides minimal privacy
- Susceptible to bending and damage
- Industrial institutional look
Uses: Construction sites, events, sports fields, pets
Wooden Fencing Panels
Modular wood fencing panels made of pine, cedar or other lumber offer an attractive temporary boundary. Best for short durations before wood deteriorates.
Pros:
- Affordable
- Visually appealing natural look
- Easy to stack, transport and install
- Available in various lengths and finishes
Cons:
- Not very durable or weather resistant
- Can warp, crack and decompose quickly
- Not secure or tall enough alone to prevent breaching
Uses: Construction delineation, temporary privacy, pet corrals, events
Crowd Control Barriers
These heavy-duty barriers keep crowds in line safely. Sturdy steel or plastic barricades interlock and withstand heavy loads.
Pros:
- Very strong and difficult to move or tip
- Tall height up to 43 inches
- Portable for events yet heavy enough for vehicles
- Versatile configurations
Cons:
- Expensive
- Not the most aesthetically pleasing
Uses: Concerts, races, construction, events, traffic control
Key Considerations Choosing Temporary Fencing
- Intended use – safety, privacy, security, pets, events, construction?
- Durability required – weather, crowds, potential damage?
- Length of use – hours, days, weeks, months?
- Appearance – visibility or complete privacy?
- Portability – permanent install or ease of transport?
- Costs – purchase, rental, or DIY option?
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most secure temporary fencing?
Chain link fencing, concrete barriers, and crowd control barriers provide the most durable and secure temporary fencing options.
How long does temporary fencing last?
Most temporary fences are suitable for uses ranging from a single day up to several months. Permanently installed chain link can last for many years.
What height temporary fence is best?
Fence height depends on purpose. For privacy, 6 feet is ideal. For pets, 4 feet is usually sufficient. For crowd control, taller 43 inch barriers work best.
Is temporary fencing worth it?
If you only need an affordable, short-term barrier, then temporary fencing can serve that purpose well. For long-term permanent fencing, go with wrought iron, vinyl, wood, or aluminum.
Conclusion
Choosing the right type of temporary fencing involves matching its features and benefits to your particular usage requirements. Consider key factors like affordability, appearance, durability, ease of installation, and length of use to select the optimal temporary fencing option, whether that’s plastic mesh, chain link, concrete barriers, wood panels or crowd control barricades. With the proper temporary fencing choice, you can cost-effectively create partitions and boundaries for your specific short-term needs.