Understanding Fold-Down Bollards
Chances are you've seen fold-down posts before. Essentially, fold-down security bollards are metal posts that prevent vehicles from getting past a specific point. What makes them unique is that they have a hinging mechanism at the base of the bollard, which allows the posts to 'lie down' and provide access when required. This makes them incredibly convenient in situations where homeowners want to allow access at certain points, and block access at others.
As you can see in the image below, the bollards are secured to the ground using a permanent base. Within the base lies a hinging mechanism, where once the owner unlocks the bollard using a unique key, the bollard can be moved from it's erected position, into a downward, accessible position.
Different Types of Security Bollards
Galvanised Steel Bollards
Galvanized steel bollards are a fantastic option for homeowners who want to keep their vehicles safe and secure, without any unnecessary extras. These bollards are crafted from carbon steel and treated with a process known as galvanization, where a thin layer of zinc is added. This zinc layer acts like a protective coat, keeping oxygen and water at bay, which means they're really good at resisting rust. They're especially great for handling the British weather, making them a durable and long-lasting choice for your home.
Stainless Steel Bollards
Stainless steel bollards are a top pick for homeowners who want to keep their vehicles safe while also keeping things looking nice. They tend to be a bit sleeker than the galvanized ones and are made from stainless steel, which is known for its premium look and feel. What's really neat is that the lock is right at the top, which makes these bollards not only stylish but super practical too.
Hydraulic Lift-Assist Bollards
Hydraulic lift-assist bollards are perfect for anyone looking to add a bit of convenience and a dash of luxury to their space. With their cool automatic hydraulic lifting system, these bollards glide up from the ground with almost no effort on your part. You'll need to kick things off manually, but after that, the mechanism takes over, providing a smooth and hassle-free experience.
Automatic Wireless Bollards
The wireless automatic bollard is our premium pick, offering a completely battery-powered setup that does away with the need for complex and expensive underground wiring. You can control this high-tech bollard with just a mobile app, making it the epitome of convenience and luxury. It’s especially great for homeowners looking to set up multiple units at once, as it promises easy use and a modern, stylish way to keep your vehicle safe.
Fold-down posts are very easy to install, making them a brilliant choice for homeowners who want a minimally invasive, and cost-effective way to protect their vehicles.
Step 1 - Plan Bollard Placements
We assess the site to plan the most effective location to place the posts. We ensure the posts do not interfere with the aesthetics of your home, and that they are placed in a discreet, yet effective position.
Step 2 - Drilling the Holes
Once we've chosen a suitable location, we carefully drill 2 holes where the base of the bollard will sit. Depending on the type of bollard, these holes may be deeper than others, but we ensure the base is incredibly strong and tamper-proof.
Step 3 - Installing the Bollards
Once the base is fitted, we attach the fold-down posts, making sure they are completely level and ready to use.
Step 4 - 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?
When thinking about adding bollards to your home, it's important to consider if they're the right fit for you. Let's dive into some key points to help make your decision easier.
High-risk Vehicle Brands
If you own a luxury car like a Range Rover, Audi, Mercedes, Porsche, BMW, Aston Martin, Ferrari, Bentley, or Jaguar, it's wise to give security some extra thought. These brands often catch the eye of thieves, so taking steps to protect your ride is a smart move.
High-risk Locations
Lately, car theft rates have increased significantly around London. It's important to look at local crime statistics to make a risk-assessment. If you live in a high-risk area, we would encourage homeowners to take extra precautions.
Is Your Home a Good Fit?
Driveway security posts are great at keeping thieves away, but they're not for every home. If your driveway is really wide, you might need too many posts to make it work, which could get expensive. Also, if a lot of people need to use your driveway, a security post could be more of a hassle than it's worth.
Budget Considerations
Our selection of bollards is priced to fit a range of budgets, so cost isn't usually an obstacle to protecting your car. However, if money is tight, there are cheaper options out there, like steering wheel locks, that can still provide some level of security until you can go for something more permanent.
