You have probably noticed unusual pillars on sidewalks, pedestrian zones, or in front of commercial buildings many times. They may seem like a catchy detail that should complement the architecture of a certain location. But the truth is that these pillars are primarily a helpful security measure.
These pillars are actually called security bollards, and you can find them in different sizes, shapes, and materials. Concrete security bollards are especially popular and sought-after for commercial and public areas, as they are durable, convenient, and almost indestructible.
Besides their functionality and sturdiness, concrete security bollards can also be a nice aesthetic detail in the landscape. They can serve the purpose in both commercial and private properties, so if you think of installing these pillars in your yard or a parking lot, here’s why you should do that.
Improved Safety for Everyone
As said, the original purpose of concrete bollards is safety and traffic redirection. They represent a physical obstacle that is also a border, for example, between footpaths and roadways with heavy traffic. Or between the personal/commercial properties and the public area.
Concrete bollards prevent potentially dangerous events such as collisions or endangering the safety of pedestrians. These pillars are impact-resistant, meaning they serve as a barrier between vehicles and pedestrian zones. Depending on their size and quality of installation, concrete bollards can be strong enough to stop a smaller truck.
Wherever these security bollards are placed, their role is clear – they boost the security of that area and everyone in it. It can be pedestrians and different vehicles, depending on the location. In pedestrian zones, concrete pillars define where people and cars can go. When these bollards are in heavy traffic areas, they can prevent collisions and possible damage that careless driving and reckless drivers can do.
Security bollards add up to the location security also when used to slow vehicles. For example, they can be installed in front of schools, hospitals, airport buildings, or anywhere in urban areas where it is necessary to “calm down” the traffic. By setting these high-impact collars on the impact points, it is possible to prevent unwanted accidents and endangering the sand by negligent drivers.
Durable and Eco-Friendly
Concrete is a sustainable material, given that it’s made of coarse aggregate (gravel, stone, sand), cement, and water. Some manufacturers make their pillars from recycled components, thus reducing their carbon footprint. Even when combined with PVC or metal, concrete security pillars don’t harm the environment and are suitable for places where nature is possibly endangered due to increased traffic intensity.
More on different types of security bollards see below:
https://www.scientificworldinfo.com/2022/07/different-types-of-security-bollards.html
Concrete is very resistant to the elements and external factors, and these bollards can stay in place for a long time. For instance, you’ve probably seen these pillars down the beach promenade. At that place, they’re exposed to the sun, salt water, and wind all the time. But as concrete can withstand all that, even with minimal maintenance, these traffic bollards can last for decades.
Stylish
Another great thing about concrete security bollards is that they can be great outdoor decoration. These security pillars combine functionality with aesthetics for the utmost safety and appearance of your outdoor space. Wherever you place them, they will enhance the curb appeal while not harming the environment.
You can find concrete bollards in different shapes, styles, and finishes, so you just have to pick the one that fits your needs, property, and budget. They don’t always have to be plain pillars, but you can also find them in the form of spheres, semicircles, or even planters. The latter option is great as it not only enhances the safety of your outdoor area but also gives you the chance to make it more visually appealing by adding greenery.
Affordable
Concrete bollards are an efficient and budget-friendly alternative to gates and fences. They may not cover the entire space and provide discretion like high walls, but they can do a good job in places where you need to separate heavy and light traffic zones or prevent unauthorized entry or access.
All this will cost you a fraction of the fancy fence’s or hi-tech security system’s cost. Concrete security posts are very affordable, and their installation is easy, as is upkeep. Unlike metal or steel, they won’t rust over time nor change their color, meaning their maintenance needs are also minimal. You just have to ensure you hire a reputable company to pour and install these pillars or do it alone for your personal property (as explained here), and you’re good to go.
Concrete bollards can be a nice detail in any outdoor area, but their primary function is to ensure area safety and prevent traffic impact. They will stand their ground for a long time, stop the cars, and keep pedestrians safe.