When driving down the highway, most motorists don&#;t think about the fencing structures built to enhance safety, reduce noise, deter animals and generally mitigate other risks. But the design and implementation of highway fencing is both essential and complex.
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Constructing effective fencing along a traveled highway requires a well-thought-out approach and precise knowledge of the materials and specifications related to the project.
To help highlight the different purposes, forms and considerations for highway fencing, this article provides a number of informative insights.
Highway fencing is employed in various types of settings and for a multitude of different reasons. Generally speaking, it is intended to separate the drivable roadway from the surrounding area, though there are more granular requirements at play. Here are some of the most common functions:
: Typically applied in urban and suburban areas, fencing in the form of sound barriers (or sound walls) is erected to contain noise stemming from vehicular traffic. There are two types of sound barriers used along highways. One is a reflective wall, which serves to block sound waves and reflect them back to the area from which they came. The other is an absorptive wall, constructed from porous and textured materials to help intercept and absorb the sound waves.
: Many interstate, state and local roadways implement highway fencing to control access to or restriction from the path of traffic. These fencing structures can serve as crash barriers, reducing the risk of collision between oncoming lanes, and they create a perimeter delineating the boundaries of the roadway.
: In areas along highways where sloped ground poses the risk of falling rocks, fencing is often applied to protect the roadway and prevent rockfall from reaching potential traffic. Fencing or walls designed with this purpose in mind mitigate the risk of falling rocks causing damage to a vehicle, person or structure.
: The presence of animals on a highway can be particularly dangerous to both the animals themselves and the people driving along the road. Fencing is commonly utilized to alleviate this hazard and deter animals from accessing the highway.
: Some states have passed legislation to address protective fencing on bridges over highways so as to protect pedestrians and motorists. In response to dangerous (and even lethal) incidents of rocks or other projectiles being thrown over bridges or overpasses onto the highway below, fencing has been erected to thwart this type of activity.
The design and use of materials for constructing highway fencing should be determined based on a multitude of factors, including the type of need or application (like those listed above), the highway setting, the flow of traffic, the surrounding landscape, access specifications, governing laws and regulations, and more. To create a more robust understanding of these dynamics, following are some of the most common material and structural choices for building highway fencing.
: Multi-level chain link fencing systems are widely used to help reduce accidents. Chain link can be applied either independently or in connection with other barriers to create an effective fencing structure. It is a cost-effective option and features both the flexibility and visibility to support risk prevention along highways. It is particularly useful at deterring wildlife while maintaining the local ecosystem.
: This type of highway fencing is especially effective in terms of minimizing sound pollution. It can lessen perceived noise by as much as half, and it features both the strength and durability required in certain highway settings. Steel rebar or reinforcing mesh can be applied to create greater bonding of the material and prevent cracks. By adding absorption materials or texture, there is even greater capacity to block highway sounds from the surrounding areas. Color additives and textures can also be used to help the structures either blend in or stand out, depending on specific needs.
: Guardrails along a highway serve to form a protective barrier and mitigate the danger to motorists who veer, swerve or drift off the roadway. When stopping the vehicle unimpeded is not a viable option, guardrails can help lessen the severity of a crash by deflecting, slowing or stopping the vehicle. Constructed from either steel or aluminum, guardrails are built and secured based on a post-and-beam model.
As you can imagine, the many requirements and potential risks related to highway fencing mean that constructing them requires a specialized approach. In addition to the many specific needs of various settings and highway nuances, there are always regulatory and compliance issues to factor into the equation.
It is of the utmost importance to understand and construct in accordance with governances on the local, state and federal level. The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT), for example, publishes a list of all specifications to which any contractor must adhere with regard to materials used for their projects. The vendor or manufacturer who supplies the fence materials to the contractor must be an approved PennDOT supplier.
Given these challenges, it is necessary to contract the services of a highly experienced and knowledgeable professional in these areas, one who can recommend the right kind of highway fencing to meet unique needs and specifications, as well as carry out a high-quality installation process based on industry best practices for safety, reliability and compliance.
Rutkoski Fencing, Inc. is a pre-approved business partner for Pennsylvania highway projects and a registered business partner for state turnpike projects.
Download our free brochure to learn more about how Rutkoski Fencing can help with your next project.
A highway fence is a barrier constructed alongside roads, usually made from materials such as metal, wood, plastic, concrete, or brick. These fences come in various designs, each tailored to a specific purpose.
Highway fencing is crucial for several reasons. Firstly, they are built to help reduce noise from busy highways, enhancing the quality of life for nearby residents. Fences also improve the safety and efficiency of roadways by aiding in traffic management, environmental protection, accident prevention, and other functions.
Noise Reduction
Some highway fences are designed to reduce noise for local residents and nearby buildings.
Safety of Drivers and Passersby
Fences prevent accidents by keeping pedestrians from crossing highways at unsafe locations. They also absorb impact and redirect vehicles back onto the roadway, reducing the severity of accidents.
Animal Protection
Highway fences keep animals off the roads, making the roads safer for drivers and protecting animals from traffic hazards.
Environmental Protection
Fences help control soil erosion by acting as barriers against wind and water runoff, preserving the surrounding environment.
Heat Reduction
Freeway Fences can act as sun shades, keeping the road surface cooler and reducing the overall temperature of the roadway.
Road Structure Protection
Fences prevent the disruption of roads caused by water, snow, and wind, helping to maintain optimal road conditions.
Reduced Driver Distraction
Highway fences create safer roads by shielding drivers from pedestrian walkways and animals, thus reducing distractions.
Wind Reduction
Freeway Fencing absorbs wind, reducing its disruptive effects on the roadway.
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In the USA, it's common to see highways lined with fences along the way. While these fences may vary in appearance, the question remains: why do freeways have fences exactly? There are several reasons, and the type of fence used often depends on the specific needs of different areas.
Some fences are installed to act as a barrier, reducing noise from the roads for nearby residents.
Others serve to enhance safety by keeping pedestrians away from traffic and by deflecting or catching out-of-control vehicles, preventing them from crossing into oncoming traffic.
There are fences that help maintain the high condition of the road by keeping debris and vegetation clear.
Roadside fences also could serve as a deterrent against vandalism and unauthorized crossings on major roads.
Moreover, they can mark the legal boundaries of the rights-of-way of highways designated as "limited access."
Freeway fences come in various styles and materials, but Grasstik offers solutions that can meet all of these requirements. Visit our page to learn more about how roadside fence can address your needs.
Safety
It keeps pedestrians and vehicles safe by guiding them to the right exit and preventing accidents.
Traffic Control
Fencing helps manage traffic flow, making sure vehicles enter and exit the freeway safely.
Property Protection
These fences mark where the freeway ends and private property begins, keeping trespassers out.
Wildlife Protection
They stop animals from getting onto the freeway, reducing the risk of accidents.
Highway fences provide safety for people both on and off the road. They ensure that pedestrians do not unexpectedly walk onto the road and that vehicles stay on their designated path, minimizing the risk of accidents. Moreover, freeway clear fence prevent animals and rocks from falling onto the road. Many local regulations mandate the installation of highway fences due to high traffic volume and a high accident rate.
Fences can reduce collisions between vehicles and large animals by 80&#;99%. However, gaps in fencing at intersections, on-ramps, and off-ramps can allow small animals to access the highway. Therefore, if there are multiple occasions with this, it is recommended to consider installing a fence cover or explore alternatives such as the Grasstik artificial grass grass fence.
The presence of fences can help reduce the likelihood of certain types of accidents, such as collisions with fixed objects or rollovers. Moreover, accidents on highways without fences are more common due to the lack of physical barriers to prevent vehicles from crossing over to the opposite side, or running off the road.
Highway fences are typically durable, but their strength varies depending on the material used. The most used options are concrete and metal fences.
Concrete highway fences are the most robust you can find, capable of withstanding significant pressure, offering high security and privacy value, and requiring minimal maintenance. Metal fences may not stop a car, but they are cost-effective, difficult to bypass, provide visibility, and are easy to maintain, making them a popular option for road fences.
To keep the fence in good shape, conduct regular inspections, regardless of the material used. Keeping an eye out for any damage or defects and promptly fixing them will ensure the fence lasts longer and remains effective.
Regular cleaning is also crucial. With the constant flow of traffic, debris, dirt, and even vegetation can gather along the fence and nearby road. Try to keep the area clean to maintain the fence's integrity. Moreover, in regions experiencing winter weather, it's necessary to regularly clear away snow and ice buildup.
For metal fences, especially those situated in harsh environments, occasional touch-ups such as applying paint or corrosion-resistant coatings are necessary to prevent rust and deterioration.
Firstly, start with thorough planning. Consider the purpose of the fence, the specific area where it will be installed, and potential obstacles like trees, rocks, rivers, and uneven ground. Also, decide on your budget beforehand and the type of fence you&#;ll use. Then, check local regulations regarding fence features such as height, materials, and distance from the highway.
Once the planning is done, prepare the installation area. Clear away grass, trees, debris, or any other obstructions. Create a clear layout for where the fence will go, ensuring you include exits along its length for emergency situations and access by maintenance staff.
Next comes the installation phase. You can either do this yourself or hire a professional installation company or team.
There are numerous local and state regulations that must be carefully followed. If we are talking about the USA highway fences, you would likely need a permit from the state Department of Transportation. Also, contact local utility companies before digging any holes for the poles to avoid damaging underground lines.
And, of course, prioritize safety for yourself and your team. Always wear appropriate protective gear when handling tools and materials.
Concrete Barriers
These are robust and durable, providing strong protection against vehicle collisions. They are often used in medians( the area between opposing lanes of traffic) and around construction zones.
Metal Fences
These include chain-link fences and wire mesh fences. They are versatile and can be used for general "highway needs" and security purposes.
Plastic and PVC Fences
Used as a temporary solution, around construction sites or for crowd control during events. They are lightweight and easy to install and remove.
Steel or aluminum guardrails
Used in medians, roadsides, and on bridges for road safety, these guardrails serve different purposes but are primarily designed to prevent vehicles, including motorcycles, from crossing into oncoming traffic
Grasstik Privacy fence
Grasstik offers highly aesthetic solutions that provide privacy and security:
Highway fences play a crucial role in environmental improvement by controlling soil erosion and preventing flooding. More importantly, they create barriers that deter animals from accessing roads, thereby reducing the risk of collisions between vehicles and wildlife. This helps prevent animal fatalities by 50% that occur when animals wander onto busy roads. Sometimes, wildlife corridors are constructed to guide animals to safer crossing points under or over highways without disturbing the local fauna's ecosystem.