How to Install Bollard: Tips, Techniques, and Benefits?

Bollards, often called bollard barriers, are sturdy posts that keep traffic away from certain areas, thus protecting people and buildings. They come in different types that can stay in place permanently or be removed when unnecessary.

In this blog, we’ll go through easy-to-follow tips and techniques on how to install bollards correctly. We’ll look at the different ways to put them in place and talk about why it’s important to install them the right way. Proper installation helps bollards work better and last longer, keeping areas safe and looking good.

Why Use Bollards?

Bollards are useful for a bunch of reasons. Mainly, they help keep people safe. By blocking off certain areas, they prevent cars and other vehicles from entering places where people walk or gather, like sidewalks or park paths. This is especially important in busy areas like city centres or near schools where lots of kids are around.

Bollards also help manage traffic. They can make drivers slow down, follow specific paths, and not enter restricted areas. This makes places like parking lots and driveways safer and easier to navigate.

Besides safety and traffic, bollards protect properties. They stand guard in front of shops, government buildings, and historical sites, stopping vehicles from accidentally (or intentionally) crashing into them.

You’ll often see bollards used in:

• Urban areas: Cities use them around pedestrian zones, public squares, and roadsides.
• Parking lots: They guide cars and protect pedestrians and parking infrastructure.
• Commercial premises: Businesses install them to safeguard their entrances and to control the traffic around their buildings.

So, bollards do more than just stand around—they keep us safe, direct traffic, and protect buildings and spaces where we live and work.

Types of Bollards

Bollards come in various forms, each designed for specific situations and needs. Here are some of the most common types:

Fixed Bollards

Fixed bollards are permanently installed and cannot be moved. These are typically made of strong materials like steel and are used where long-term, durable barriers are needed. You’ll see fixed bollards used at government buildings, along city streets, and around protected areas to prevent vehicles from entering. They’re great for providing a constant level of security and safety.

Removable Bollards

Removable bollards offer a flexible solution. They can be taken out when access is needed and put back in place easily. This type is ideal for areas that require temporary vehicle access or during certain times of the day. For example, emergency routes, commercial driveways, or event spaces often use removable bollards. The main advantages are their versatility and convenience, as they provide security without permanently blocking access.

Surface Mounted Bollards

Surface-mounted bollards are attached to the ground with bolts or similar fasteners, making them easier to install and move than fixed bollards that require deep foundations. They are perfect for situations where underground utilities or temporary setups prevent digging. These bollards are commonly used in parking garages, during construction projects, and at temporary events. They offer a balance between permanence and flexibility, protecting areas without a long-term commitment.

How to Install Bollards

Installing bollards correctly is crucial for them to function as intended. Here’s a detailed guide on how to install a bollard:

Pre-installation

Before installing any bollards, assess the site carefully. Check for underground utilities, and understand the soil composition and surface type where the bollards will be installed. Choosing the right type of bollard based on the specific needs of the area, such as whether you need permanent protection or flexible access, is also vital.

Step-by-Step Installation Guide

Fixed Bollards

1. Mark the location: Identify and mark where each bollard will be placed.
2. Excavate: Dig holes deep enough to accommodate the bollard and any necessary footing or anchoring.
3. Prepare the footing: Pour concrete into the hole to create a solid base, if required.
4. Install the bollard: Place the bollard in the centre of the hole and ensure it is vertical.
5. Secure the bollard: Fill in around the bollard with more concrete, then allow it to set completely before use.

Removable Bollards

1. Determine the placement: Mark the spots where the bollards will go.
2. Install the sleeve: Dig a hole and install a ground sleeve that the bollard will lock into.
3. Ensure alignment: Place the bollard into the sleeve to check for proper fit and alignment.
4. Finalize installation: Secure the sleeve in place with concrete and allow it to cure. The bollard should easily fit into and be removed from the sleeve.

Surface Mounted Bollards

1. Position the bollard: Place the bollard at the desired location and mark the anchor points on the surface.
2. Drill holes: Using a drill, create holes at the marked points.
3. Anchor the bollard: Place the bollard over the holes and use bolts or anchors to secure it to the surface.
4. Secure the fixings: Tighten all fixings to ensure the bollard is firmly attached.

Tools and Materials Required

• For all bollards: Measuring tape, marker (chalk or spray), and level.
• Fixed and removable bollards: Shovel or post-hole digger, concrete mix, and mixing tools.
• Surface mounted bollards: Drill with appropriate bit size, bolts or anchors, wrench or socket set.

Maintenance Tips for Bollards

Proper maintenance of bollards is crucial to ensure they continue to serve their purpose effectively and last as long as possible. Here are some maintenance practices and tips for different types of bollards:

General Maintenance Practices

• Regular Inspection: Periodically check bollards for any signs of damage, such as rust, cracks, or loosening. This is especially important after severe weather conditions or any impact events.
• Cleaning: Regularly clean bollards to remove dirt, grime, and other build-ups. Use a mild detergent and water for cleaning, and for metal bollards, consider applying a rust inhibitor to prevent corrosion.
• Immediate Repairs: Address any damage or wear as soon as possible to prevent further deterioration. This might include tightening, repainting, or replacing parts of the bollard.

Specific Tips for Different Types of Bollards

Fixed Bollards:

• Check for stability: Regularly ensure that fixed bollards remain firmly anchored in place. Check the surrounding concrete for cracks or signs of wear.
• Touch-up paint: Apply touch-up paint to cover scratches or chips to prevent rust and maintain appearance.

Removable Bollards:

• Lubricate locking mechanisms: To ensure smooth operation and prevent seizing, lubricate the locks and moving parts periodically.
• Inspect storage practices: When not in use, store removable bollards in a clean, dry area to avoid damage and deterioration.

Surface Mounted Bollards:

• Check fastenings: Regularly check the bolts and fasteners to ensure they haven’t loosened from regular impacts or vibrations.
• Surface integrity: Monitor the condition of the surface where the bollard is mounted. Repair any erosion or wear around the mounting points.

Tips for Longevity and Effectiveness

1. Use the right materials: Choose bollards made from materials suitable for your local climate. For instance, stainless steel or coated bollards might be more appropriate in coastal areas with salty air.
2. Consider visibility enhancements: Maintaining visibility can be as crucial as the physical integrity of the bollard. Use reflective tapes or painting to keep them visible during low light conditions.
3. Educate your team: Ensure that everyone involved in the maintenance understands the importance of each task and how to perform it correctly.

Benefits of Installing Bollards

Installing bollards comes with a range of benefits, not only improving safety but also enhancing the surrounding environment and property value. Here’s how they make a difference:

Enhanced Safety for Pedestrians and Vehicles

The primary benefit of bollards is the increased safety they provide. By clearly defining pedestrian areas, they create a safe zone that protects individuals from accidental or intentional vehicle intrusions. In parking lots and on roadways, bollards serve as physical barriers that prevent cars from overrunning spaces, reducing the risk of accidents.

Improved Aesthetic Appeal of the Area

Bollards are not just functional; they can also be decorative. Available in various designs and materials, they can complement the architectural style of a building or enhance the visual appeal of a landscape. This makes them a popular choice in urban design, where aesthetics are crucial. Well-designed bollard installations can turn ordinary pathways and public spaces into more visually appealing and welcoming areas.

Increased Property Value and Protection

Installing bollards can also lead to an increase in property value. By improving the safety and appearance of an area, bollards make a location more attractive to potential buyers and renters. Additionally, they protect the physical integrity of a property by preventing accidental vehicle impacts, which can cause significant damage and lead to costly repairs. This protection further contributes to maintaining or increasing the property’s value over time.

Conclusion

Choosing and installing the right bollards is crucial for ensuring they meet your safety, aesthetic, and property protection needs effectively. From fixed to removable and surface-mounted bollards, each type serves a specific purpose and offers different benefits. Proper installation is key to maximizing these benefits and ensuring the bollards function as intended for years to come.

We highly recommend consulting with professionals when planning to install bollards. Experts can provide valuable insights on the best types of bollards for your specific needs, and ensure that they are installed in the optimal locations. Professional installation helps avoid common pitfalls and ensures that the bollards are set up to provide maximum safety and effectiveness.

Investing in the right bollards and having them properly installed by professionals can make a significant difference in the safety and aesthetics of your space. It’s an investment that pays off by protecting people, and property, and enhancing the overall value of your location. For those seeking a reliable bollard Installation service provider, professional guidance is invaluable.