Barbed Wire : What You Need To Know

Barbed Wire : What You Need To Know Barbed wire has always been one of the most versatile, easy-to-use and cheapest methods of securing a premises. Particularly popular in agriculture, its sharp, pointed ‘barbs’ make it a potentially painful hurdle for intruders and an effective way of keeping important things in – like livestock. This complete guide will give you everything you need to know – from its origins, right through to installation tips. Where does barbed wire come from?   The origins of barbed wire lie in the United States. In 1874, after a decade of competing to find the ‘ultimate fencing’, Isaac Ellwood and Joseph Glidden patented their design – creating the barbed wire we know today.   Who uses barbed wire? For centuries, barbed wire has been used in a variety of industries and for many different reasons. The industrialisation of World War One, in comparison to previous battles, led to a greater need for more robust forms of slowing down the enemy. Barbed wire was seen as a practical and cost-effective way of securing bunkers and trenches. Nowadays – you are more likely to see barbed wire surrounding the many footpaths and farmers’ fields of Britain. Used predominantly in the creation of fences and for pens, it acts as a practical way of keeping livestock safe and secure. Barbed wire is also used heavily in the prison service and similar institutions. Acting as a deterrent for those looking to enter or leave, it makes for a cost-effective method of security.   The benefits of barbed wire Sustainability It does not require the use of machinery to install and as such doesn’t create any harmful pollution. The strong steel used to make barbed wire is not only easy to recycle – but long lasting too.           Easy to install Minimal work is needed to install barbed wire; it can be easily manipulated and attached to most structures. Because of its versatility, barbed wire can usually be quickly and safely moved to a different location if needed. Cheap method of security When it comes down to it, barbed wire is one of the most cost-effective methods of keeping your property secure. Priced at just £30.00 for a 200m roll, it’s an obvious choice of security for industries such as agriculture – where the need to save money is crucial. Minimal maintenance required Once installed, your barbed wire will stay sturdy and effective for as long as it's needed. Using only galvanised steel, it acts as a highly durable line of defence, even through the harshest adverse weather conditions. Difficult to climb over The beauty of barbed wire, from a security perspective, is that it is extremely hard to climb over. Its serrated points make it very easy to become entangled within, which should ward off potential intruders. Easy to repair Because it is so cost-efficient and easy to install, any barbed wire that becomes damaged can be quickly repaired without removing the entire structure. It takes barely any time at all to repair and can be done without the aid of a professional.   Are there any legal implications to consider? Although not illegal to use for security and prevention purposes, there are some forms of legislation to be considered when using barbed wire. According to the Occupier’s Liability Act of 1984, all householders have a duty of care to anyone that finds themselves on their property – unfortunately including burglars and trespassers. The act also states that if an intruder was to be injured by the barbed wire, there is a chance that the proprietor of the premises could be sued. The threat of legal action however can be diverted if a notification of the use of barbed wire on the location is made clearly visible – i.e. a ‘KEEP OUT’ sign. The use of barbed wire also falls under the Highways Act 1980. The act says that if barbed wire is being used on a property that is adjacent to a public road – it must not be hazardous or act as a nuisance to drivers. If it is deemed to be a problem, a notice for its removal or amendment may be given by the police or local authorities.   How to install barbed wire Follow our handy step-by-step guide to installing barbed wire yourself. Delivered in rolls of 200m and easy to manage, you’ll find it really simple to use. *Note – the use of protective gloves is strongly recommended. Step 1) Carefully unravel the roll and attach to one end of your desired fence posts. A winch is an ideal tool to use. Simply attach the winch to the post, take a strand of barbed wire and turn the winch until the line of wire is tight. Step 2) With caution, unroll the barbed wire and take to the other end of the fence. Step 3) Cut to length and repeat the process detailed in step 1. Step 4) The primary wire ought to be balanced (to get a straight line) along the wall line with light    pressure. To do so, lift the wire up to a height of 4' to 6' then drop it. This procedure ought to be rehashed until a straight line from start to finish is accomplished. This procedure will allow the wire to fall – ensuring it’s straight throughout. Step 5) Now that the wire is secure and fastened at each end, you can install the additional fence posts along the line. Use as many as you need and change the distance in between if necessary. Step 6) Ensure all fence posts are secure and tightly fixed into the ground. This will keep your barbed wire fence secure during adverse weather.