Bow top fencing is a high-quality, long-lasting metal fencing system that immigrants frequently use in gardens, parks, schools, and other outdoor areas in the UK. Its unique curved (bowed) tops provide a secure, aesthetically pleasing surface. Bow-top fencing is less threatening than pointed railings and is therefore suitable for family-friendly areas.
Key Features of Bow Top Fencing
Hardache Galvanised Steel Construction
The bow top fencing panel is normally produced using high-quality galvanised steel. The process of galvanisation covers the steel with a protective layer of zinc, which greatly enhances the holding qualities against rust and corrosion – a very important quality especially in the British climate where moisture and rain are common throughout the year.
Aesthetic Bow Design
The tops of the curved bows are not mere design. They diminish sharp edges and add a friendly appearance that is elegant and fit to be a high-traffic and people-oriented place, such as a park or a school.
Horizontal and Vertical Elements
Normal bow top fencing panels comprise 12mm diameter vertically fitted tubes that are curved in arches. These verticals are supported by horizontal bars (usually at the bottom and approximately 150mm above the top) to ensure structural integrity.
Post Options: Dig In vs Bolt Down
The posts may be provided in two formats:
- Dig In Posts: These are appropriate for soft ground where holes can be dug and fixed by the use of concrete or post mix.
- Bolt Down Posts: This is the best to use on hard ground, like in concrete or paved ground, and is fixed with ground anchor bolts.
This versatility allowed bow top fencing to fit in many different installation applications around the UK.
Technical Specifications: 1.2m High Bow Top Fencing
The following are the typical specifications of a 1.2m high bow top fencing system, depending on the product specification:
- Installed Height: 1200mm (above ground)
- Total Post Length: 1200mm (bolt down) / 1650mm (dig in)
- Panel Width: 2750mm
- Post Section: 50mm x 50mm hollow box.
- Bar Thickness: 12mm diameter tube.
- Distance Between Bars: 110mm Centre-to-centre.
- Material: Galvanised steel
- Finish: Galvanised or PPC (Polyester Powder Coated) with various RAL colours such as green (RAL6005), black (RAL9005), blue (RAL5010), red, grey, brown, etc.
Every fencing set usually comes with:
- Bow top fencing panel
- Post (dig in or bolt down)
- 4 x angle cleats
- M10 shear nuts and bolts to ensure permanent fixing.
- Benefits of Choosing Bow Top Fencing
Increased Safety and Visibility
Bow-top fencing is a good choice for playgrounds, schools, and other government parks where safety is a concern, thanks to its smooth, rounded tops. It is also open-design, which guarantees good sightlines, which are crucial in supervision as well as beauty.
Long Service and Minimum Maintenance
Bow top fencing is highly resistant to corrosion and wear in the environment, thanks to galvanised steel and optional Polyester Powder Coatings (PPC). If the coating is scratched or damaged, it can be repaired with touch-up spray to restore its appearance.
Easy To Install
Both dig-in and bolt-down post options are available, making it compatible with soft soil and solid concrete ground conditions and ideal for residential, commercial, and public-sector installations.
Attractive Capture Boundary Solution
The bow top is sleek, fashionable, and non-obtrusive. It can be easily integrated with existing property exteriors or colour schemes in public spaces when finished in the preferred RAL colour.
Where Bow Top Fencing Is Used
Residential Gardens
Bow-top fencing is preferred by homeowners for its aesthetic appeal and strong performance, making it a popular choice for garden boundaries, walkways, and the front yard.
Schools and Playgrounds
It is child-friendly because it does not intimidate and helps keep children safe. The fact that there are no sharp points implies that there are fewer hazards.
Parks and Recreational Areas
Bow top fencing is superior to other fencing types in terms of durability and aesthetics, making it a great choice for the use of public parks and green spaces of communities.
Commercial Perimeters
Bow-top fencing is also used by businesses that need secure yet appealing perimeter solutions that do not create a barrier appearance.
Powder Coating & Customisation Options
Polyester Powder Coating (PPC) is a galvanised post finishing. This coating provides an additional layer of corrosion protection and enables tailoring of the fencing to corporate or site-specific colours. The most popular RAL colour options are:
- Green (RAL6005)
- Black (RAL9005)
- Blue (RAL5010)
- Grey
- Brown
- Yellow and others
Custom colour systems are the best solution for projects that require branding or aesthetic harmony with the environment.
How to Install Bow Top Fencing
Step-by-Step Installation
- Prepare Area: Mark the fencing locations and ensure there is sufficient spacing between posts.
- Pilot Holes: Use 6mm pilot holes according to the locations of the posts, depending on the gradient and spacing of the panels.
- Bolt Holes: Have pilot holes widened to 12mm to fit the M10 bolts.
- Fix Cleats: Screw Cleats to posts with corresponding M10 bolts and shear nuts.
- Fit Panel: Assemble bow top fencing panels to the posts as per the instructions from the manufacturer.
- Finally: Check and adjust all fixings, and make sure everything is straight so it can be left there a long time.
There are also professional installation services in case they are required.
Tips for Choosing the Right Bow Top Fencing
Assess Height Requirements
A common height of 1.2m is used for boundary purposes. To enhance security, taller versions may be considered, along with additional security fencing.
Option of Dig in or Bolt Down
If the soil at your installation site is firm, posts will work. Paved or concrete surfaces need to be bolted down.
Look at Kits with Full Fixings
Select kits with all-angle cleats, bolts, and shear nuts to simplify installation.
