Temporary Fencing: Uses, Types, and Choosing the Right Option

Temporary fencing is a versatile, cost-effective solution for a variety of projects, from construction sites to events.

But with so many options available, choosing the right type of temporary fencing can be tricky. This guide will help you make an informed decision, outlining the different types of fences, what factors to consider, and how to pick the best option for your project.

 

What Is Temporary Fencing Used For?

Temporary fencing is perfect for many different situations. It's a flexible, quick-to-install option for securing areas and controlling access. Here’s where temporary fencing can really make a difference:

• Construction Sites: Keep your workers, equipment, and materials safe. Temporary fencing helps protect the site from unauthorized access and public safety.
• Events & Venues: Whether it's a concert, festival, or sporting event, temporary fencing helps manage crowd flow and secure entrances.
• Site Services: Ideal for job sites, rental companies, or places needing perimeter control. It’s a great way to keep things organized and secure.
• Home Renovations: Need to secure your property during a renovation? Temporary fencing keeps tools, equipment, and workers protected.

Each of these uses shows just how versatile and reliable temporary fencing can be for short-term needs.

 

Common Types of Temporary Fencing

There are several types of temporary fencing, each suited for different needs. Here's a quick guide to help you choose the right one for your project:

Chain-Link Panels

The most popular option. Durable and secure, chain-link panels are perfect for construction sites and perimeter security. Easy to set up and move as needed. 

Welded Wire Panels

A great choice for events where appearance matters. Welded wire panels are strong and offer a neat look while still providing the security you need. 

Anti-Climb Fencing

For high-security areas, these fences are designed to prevent climbing. Perfect for construction sites or places with sensitive materials. 

Temporary Fence with Privacy Screens

Need to block visibility? Privacy screens are ideal for construction sites and events where you want to keep things out of sight or improve aesthetics. 

Barricade-Style Fencing

Best for crowd control at events, these fences are lightweight, easy to move, and effective at managing large crowds. 

Each type of fencing serves a specific purpose, so choosing the right one depends on your project’s needs.

How to Choose the Right Temporary Fencing for Your Project

Choosing the right temporary fencing can feel like a big decision, but it doesn’t have to be! Here are the key factors to help you make the right choice:

• Project Duration

If your project is short-term, you might want to go for something easy to set up and remove, like chain-link panels. For longer-term projects, consider welded wire or anti-climb fencing for added durability.

• Site Conditions

Is your site open and windy? Consider adding privacy screens or anti-climb fencing to prevent damage from wind or unauthorized access. If the terrain is uneven, make sure the fencing can be anchored securely.

• Level of Control Needed

For high-security areas, you’ll want anti-climb fencing or a privacy screen to keep things more secure. For crowd control, a barricade-style fence might be your best option.

• Reusability vs One-Time Use

If you plan to reuse the fencing across multiple sites, chain-link panels and welded wire panels are great choices due to their flexibility. If you only need it once, something lighter like barricade-style fencing could work well.

• Transport and Storage

If you're handling the fence yourself, choose something easy to transport and store, like chain-link panels that stack neatly and can be moved with minimal effort.

Choosing the right fencing is all about understanding the needs of your project. By considering these factors, you can find a cost-effective, durable solution that fits perfectly. 

Temporary Fencing for Different Industries

Temporary fencing is used in many industries, each with unique needs. Here’s how it fits into some of the most common sectors:

• Construction

In construction, temporary fencing is a must-have for site security, controlling access, and protecting materials from theft. It’s also used to keep the public safe from potential hazards. Whether it’s a residential project or large commercial build, the right fence keeps everything in place.

• Site Services / Rentals

For site services and rental companies, temporary fencing provides a flexible and cost-effective solution to secure equipment and define work areas. It’s easy to set up and move around, making it perfect for ongoing projects.

• Venues & Arenas

Whether you’re hosting a concert, festival, or sports event, temporary fencing helps manage crowds, direct traffic, and secure entrances. Plus, it’s quick to set up and move around for different configurations.

• Public Sector

Temporary fencing is commonly used in the public sector for crowd control at protests, emergency situations, or even around construction zones in public spaces. It helps maintain order while being easy to deploy and adjust.

 

Buying vs Renting Temporary Fencing: Which Is Right for You?

Deciding whether to buy or rent temporary fencing depends on your project needs. Here’s a quick guide to help you make the right choice:

• When Buying Makes Sense

If you have long-term projects or frequent needs for fencing, buying is a great investment. It’s more cost-effective in the long run and gives you the flexibility to reuse it across different sites. Plus, you’ll save on rental fees over time.

• When Renting Makes Sense

Renting is perfect for short-term projects, like one-time events or temporary construction sites. It saves you the upfront cost of purchasing fencing and allows for easy setup and takedown. Renting is also a great choice if you don’t want to worry about storage when the project is over.

• What Repeat-Use Projects Need to Consider

If you find yourself needing temporary fencing regularly, consider purchasing higher-quality panels that can withstand frequent use and last longer. Renting is better for one-time use, but owning allows you to scale with your growing needs.

Both buying and renting have their pros and cons depending on your project type. Choosing the right option ensures that you get the best value for your budget.

Common Mistakes When Selecting Temporary Fencing

• Choosing Based Only on Price

While budget is important, it shouldn't be the only factor. Cheap options may not be as durable or secure, leading to higher long-term costs. Focus on the quality, security, and functionality of the fence, not just the price.

• Ignoring Environmental Factors

Wind, weather, and terrain can all impact the effectiveness of your fence. Make sure to consider the environment—for example, anti-climb fencing is better for high-risk areas, and privacy screens help reduce visibility.

• Not Planning for Accessories

Fencing accessories like anchor blocks, anchor weights, clamps, and privacy screens can make a big difference in the performance and stability of your fence. Make sure to plan for these additions, especially in high-traffic areas or windy conditions.

By keeping these mistakes in mind, you can make a better-informed decision and ensure your temporary fencing works as expected. 

Temporary Fencing Options from SONCO

With 50 years of experience, SONCO is your trusted partner for temporary fencing solutions. We offer a wide range of high-quality fences designed to meet the needs of any project, whether you’re working on a construction site, hosting an event, or securing a home renovation.

We specialize in durable, easy-to-install fencing options that provide reliable security and flexibility. Our temporary fences are built to last and offer the best value for your project.

No matter your requirements, we have the right temporary fencing solution for you, backed by our decades of expertise in the industry.

Explore Our Temporary Fencing Options – Request a Quote Today 

FAQs About Temporary Fencing

Here are some of the most frequently asked questions we get about temporary fencing. We’ve answered them to help guide you through the process:

• How long can temporary fencing be used?

Temporary fencing can last as long as you need it for, whether it’s a few weeks for an event or several months on a construction site. The quality of the fencing will determine how well it holds up over time.

• Is temporary fencing reusable?

Yes! One of the great things about temporary fencing is its versatility. If it’s maintained properly, you can reuse it for multiple projects.

• Does temporary fencing require permits?

Depending on your location and the type of project, you may need a permit for temporary fencing, especially in public spaces or high-security areas. It’s always a good idea to check with your local authorities.

• What accessories are needed?

Accessories like anchor bases, clamps, and privacy screens are important to ensure your fencing is secure, stable, and does the job it’s meant to.

If you have more questions or need help deciding what type of fence is right for you, feel free to contact us!