Temporary fences are seen everywhere, at construction sites, outdoor shows, road projects, and even farms. They give safety, security, and crowd control, while also being easy to move and set up. But with so many styles on the market, how do you pick the best one for your project? This guide explains it step by step. We will cover fence height, mesh size, wire thickness, frame type, and surface treatment.
Understanding the Role of Temporary Fences
A temporary fence is not just a simple barrier. It can:
Stop strangers from entering risky areas.
Lower the chance of theft or vandalism.
Guide and manage crowds during large events.
Keep animals or plants safe from damage.
In short, it is a flexible and cost-friendly choice when a permanent fence is not possible.
Key Factors to Consider When Choosing a Temporary Fence
1. Fence Height
Fence height has a big effect on security.
Common sizes are 1800 mm (about 6 feet) and 2100-2430 mm (about 7-8 feet).
A 6 feet fence works well for small construction projects or crowd control. It gives basic separation.
A 7-8 feet fence is better for busy construction zones, factories, or large public events. This height stops people from climbing and adds more safety.
If you only need to guide people or protect a garden, 6 ft may be enough. But for bigger areas or stricter safety needs, 8 ft is a smarter choice.
2. Mesh Opening Size
Mesh size decides how easy it is to climb or cut the fence.
50 × 50 mm/2 × 2 in, very strong, stops climbing.
57 × 57 mm, 60 × 60 mm, common size for construction.
70 × 70 mm, lighter and cheaper.
For high risk places, go with smaller mesh. It makes tools and climbing harder.
3. Wire Diameter
The wire thickness (also called gauge) shows how strong the fence is.
2.5-3.0 mm, light use, landscaping, or short events.
3.5-4.0 mm, normal choice for most construction sites.
5.0 mm, heavy duty, long term projects, or livestock.
Think of wire diameter as the backbone of the fence. The thicker the wire, the harder it is to cut or bend.
4. Frame Type
The frame gives the fence its strength. Most fences use round steel pipes.
32 mm pipes, best for short term or light jobs.
38-40 mm pipes, most common, with a balance of strength and easy handling.
42-48 mm pipes, extra stable, perfect for tough or long projects.
Frames should always be well welded, so the joints do not become weak spots.
5. Base and Stability
A fence is only as steady as its base. There are two main base types:
Concrete filled bases (common in America): very stable, good for windy or high risk sites.
Plastic bases (popular in Australia, often orange): lighter, easier to move, good for events or short-term use.
For construction, stability always matters more than easy handling.
6. Surface Treatment
The surface coating decides how long the fence lasts outdoors.
Hot dip galvanized: best rust protection, perfect for long-term use.
PVC coated: adds color (green, black, grey, white) and shields from weather.
PE coated: cheaper option, still offers basic durability
If your site is near the sea or in rainy areas, hot-dip galvanized is the safest pick.
America vs. Australia Temporary Fences: What’s the Difference?
Many buyers wonder which style is better. Here is a quick look:
| Feature | America Temporary Fence | Australia Temporary Fence |
|---|---|---|
| Height | 1800–2400 mm | 1800–2100 mm |
| Width | 2400–4300 mm | 2100–2900 mm |
| Mesh Opening | 50–70 mm square | 50 × 100 mm, 75 × 150 mm |
| Base Type | Heavy concrete base | Plastic base (orange) |
| Standard | Flexible design | Built to AS 4687-2007 |
In short:
For rules and tough weather, choose Australia style.
For wide panels and heavy bases, choose America style.
Example
Imagine a company fencing a downtown building site. If they choose 2.5 mm wire with wide mesh, it will be cheaper at first. But one strong push could bend the panel.
Now compare it with 5.0 mm wire, 50 mm mesh, and a heavy base. Yes, it costs more. But it will last the full 12 month project with no need for constant repair.
Sometimes saving money at the start ends up costing more later.
About Anping JiaHui
Founded in Anping, the “hometown of wire mesh,” Anping JiaHui Wire Mesh Co., LTD is a trusted maker of temporary fences, chain link fences, farm fences, and safety fences. With many years of experience, JiaHui provides strong and customizable fencing solutions for construction, farming, and security needs. The company also offers fence designs tailored to each project’s demands.
Tips for Buyers
Always ask for samples before placing large orders.
Check the welds. Weak welds break quickly.
For wet areas, galvanized coating is best.
Do not forget the importance of a strong base.
Conclusion
Choosing the right temporary fence is not only about price. It is about safety, strength, and the needs of your project. By thinking about height, mesh size, wire thickness, frame type, and coating, you can avoid costly mistakes and keep your site secure.
Whether you are working on construction, managing an event, or fencing animals, the right fence gives peace of mind and long-term value.
FAQs
Q1: How tall should a temporary fence be for construction sites?
Most sites use 2100 mm (7 ft) or higher fences to stop climbing and add safety.
Q2: Which coating is best for temporary fences in rainy or coastal areas?
Hot dip galvanized fences last the longest and resist rust best.
Q3: What’s the difference between America and Australia temporary fences?
America style has wider panels and heavy bases. Australia style follows AS 4687-2007 with lighter plastic bases.
Q4: Can temporary fences be reused for multiple projects?
Yes. With care, galvanized or PVC coated fences can be reused for years and save money.
Q5: How do I choose the right mesh opening size?
For high security, use 50 × 50 mm mesh. For short or light use, larger mesh like 70 × 70 mm is enough.
