Palisade fencing usually refers to a boundary or partition which is constructed from timber planks or wooden trunks, and is used to partition land, for security or to prevent access or exit.
The traditional manner to construct a palisade fence, is to align wooden planks in the vertical, set against each other and no gaps in between them. The top of these planks are usually pointy to discourage anybody from climbing over it. Traditional palisade was made from tree trunks and these they were posted into the ground, and in some cases strengthened with extra posts or crossbars. Palisade is usually quite high for security reasons.
Historically, palisade fences provided defense for forts or other constructions. Palisades were sometimes used as a temporary security partition for castles until the proper stone wall fencing could be constructed. The timber for the fences were easily accessible, to transport where needed, and it was easy to dismantle and move these fences. They were also used in wars and conflict to protect certain areas. However the wood made them susceptible to burning if fire was used during conflicts.
Modern day palisades are constructed from different materials, and wood is seldom used these days. The basic structure remains the same but the gaps in between the stakes are wider, which enables visibility through the fencing and also uses less material. The vertical stakes are then joined together by fixing them to horizontal bars. Only a few grounded posts are needed to stabilize and secure the fence, and the palisade is quite often installed in panels. Steel, iron and brick palisades are popular in South Africa, and quite often the palisade fences are combined with electric fencing for added security.
In South Africa crime is rife and palisade fencing provides security for many households. Authorities quite often encourage home owners to install palisade fencing due to the fact that they are see through, and this prevents criminals from concealing themselves behind the fences. The planting of vegetation or trees next to palisade is also discouraged as this will quite often allow criminals to climb over the wall unseen.
