Understanding Driveway Security Bollards
Driveway security bollards, or as some people might call them, security posts, are anti-theft devices that prevent thieves from driving your stolen car off the driveway, effectively making it impossible to disappear with your car. This makes them an incredibly effective deterrent, as thieves are more than likely going to attempt a theft at a property without security bollards installed on the driveway.
How do they work?
Great question! As you can see in the image above, security bollards, or security posts, are heavy-duty metal poles that make it impossible for a vehicle to get past. For the most part, we install telescopic security posts, which describe the type of bollards that can be lowered into the ground when they aren't in use. The key benefit here is that they become essentially invisible when not in use, they're far more convenient than alternatives, and they're incredibly strong given that they are sitting in a concrete-reinforced base nearly a meter in the ground.
Different Types of Security Bollards
Galvanised Steel Bollards
Galvanised Steel Bollards are an incredibly popular option amongst homeowners who simply want to protect their vehicles, without any additional luxury. Galvanised steel is a carbon steel that has been galvanized or coated with a thin layer of zinc. The zinc acts as a barrier preventing oxygen and water from reaching the steel, providing advanced corrosion protection and making it incredibly hardy and long-lasting in British weather.
Stainless Steel Bollards
Stainless Steel Bollards are very common amongst homeowners who are looking to protect their vehicles without sacrificing aesthetics. Slightly smaller than the Galvanised option, these bollards are made with Stainless Steel, which is generally considered a higher-end option, and makes for an aesthetically pleasing choice. The locking mechanism sits at the top of the bollard.
Hydraulic Lift-Assist Bollards
Hydraulic Lift-Assists Bollards are commonly chosen by individuals who want to extend their budget slightly to afford an additional level of convenience and luxury - in this case, a hydraulic lifting mechanism that effectively raises the bollard out of the ground automatically. The unit still needs manual operation to activate, but from there it works by itself.
Automatic Wireless Bollards
Finally, our most premium option, the wireless automatic bollard. This bollard is fully electric, powered by batteries in order to avoid complicated and expensive powerlines needing to be installed under the driveway. The unit is operated via an app, and provides users with the highest levels of convenience and luxury. We especially recommend this product to homeowners who are installing multiple units at once.
How does installation work?
The process of installing these bollards is relatively simple, and usually takes no more than 90 minutes per bollard. We'll break down the process of installing anti-theft vehicle bollards below.
Step 1 - Checking for Underground Utilities
We start by using a CAT Scanner to check your driveway for any underground pipes and power lines. This is to ensure we can safely dig to the required depth to fully install your security posts.
Step 2 - Plan Bollard Placements
We work closely with the homeowners to ensure the bollards are placed in a way that is convenient, whilst doing the most effective possible job to prevent vehicle theft. Once the client is happy, we are able to begin work.
Step 3 - Digging the Holes
Depending on the type of bollard you've chosen, we carefully dig holes to the required depth. Once we've created appropriate drainage, we place the bollards, ensuring perfect alignment and placement. We always use a level to check the bollards are 100% straight before setting them.
Step 4 - Setting the Bollards
Once the bollards are in their correct positions, we use concrete to fill the cavities around the bollards, giving them their immense strength and durability. We ensure that the bollards are protected using masking tape to prevent any scuffs during this process.
Step 5 - Integration with Driveway
Depending on the type of driveway, we now take the necessary steps to create a seamless integration between the bollard and your driveway. For example, on block paving driveways we cut the bricks to make room for the bollard and achieve a pleasing level of symmetry and cohesion.
Step 6 - Clean Up
Once the bollards are finished, we ensure the driveway is completely cleaned, leaving you with your new bollards, well-protected vehicles, and no mess. We ensure the client is comfortable operating the bollards, hand over any spare keys, and answer any final questions.
FAQ
Are Bollards Right For Me?
It's important to evaluate whether security posts are the right option your specific circumstances. Here are some factors to consider before making a decision.
High-Risk Vehicle Brands
Thieves often target higher-end car brands such as Range Rover, Audi, Mercedes, Porsche, BMW, Aston Martin, Ferrari, Bentley, and Jaguar. While all cars are at risk, owners of luxury vehicles should take extra precautions to protect their investments.
High-Risk Locations
There has been a notable increase in car thefts in London, Greater London, and the Home Counties, including areas like Surrey, Essex, Berkshire, Kent, Hampshire, and Buckinghamshire. Residents in these high-risk areas are advised to implement additional security measures, such as installing driveway security posts, to protect their vehicles.
Suitability of Your Home
While driveway security posts are highly effective at deterring car theft, not all homes may have suitable driveways for installation. For instance, if the driveway entrance is particularly wide, installing numerous posts could become cost-prohibitive. Additionally, if multiple people need access to the driveway, security posts may not be practical.
Budget
We offer security posts to accommodate various budgets, so cost typically shouldn't be a barrier to enhancing vehicle security. However, for those with very limited budgets, more affordable options like steering wheel locks might be a suitable short-term solution until a more comprehensive security system can be installed.
