Here in Australia, we’re lucky to boast a coastline that’s renowned for its biodiversity, and tourism generation, contributing significantly to local economies. Without robust regulation, protections, and oversight, we could damage, or even lose some of these incredible (but fragile) ecosystems. The solution: safeguard them with resilient, and sustainable infrastructure.
How Coastal Fencing Protects Ecosystems
Coastal fencing can help preserve ecosystems, defending them against the relentless onslaught of our country’s extreme environmental and weather conditions. A harsh coastal environment demands materials that can endure constant exposure to:
- corrosive elements,
- abrasive forces,
- and high humidity
The best material for coastal fencing
With these challenges in mind, we’ll answer the question: what is the best material for coastal fencing?
There is only one answer…
Stainless Steel for Coastline Fencing
Stainless steel has emerged as the most suitable solution as it’s durable and compliant with AS 4312 Atmospheric Zones in Australia.
Stainless Steel Fencing meets Local Council requirements and complies with Asset Management International Standards (ISO 55000), ensuring long-term viability and sustainability.
Why do many coastlines have chicken wire fencing?
Because it’s cheap. Whilst that’s a positive, the negatives far outweigh the benefit of a cheaper initial outlay.
Below is an example of a coastal fence line that was not comprised of stainless steel and did not adhere to the current guidelines and recommendations. Galvanised fencing like this cannot withstand everything Australia’s coastlines throw at it.
The Benefits of Stainless Steel Coastal Fencing
Here’s why stainless steel has become the go-to for coastline fencing:
- A longer asset life compared to surface-treated galvanised products
- Low maintenance requirements, reducing inspection frequency and therefore total costs, compared to galvanised products
- It is a safe product that doesn’t cause physical hazards to people or animals
- It offers lasting protection for the ecosystem
How Coastal Fencing Benefits Local Council & Asset Owners
Coastal fencing offers numerous advantages for local councils and asset owners, significantly benefitting their operations and long-term planning.
It supports informed asset investment decisions and improves financial performance by reducing maintenance costs, as well as enhancing risk management, and preserving public spaces. This leads to more sustainable and resilient coastal environments.
TL:DR:
- Informed asset investment decisions
- Improved financial performance
- Improved risk management
- Enhanced services and outputs
Case Study: Northern Beaches, NSW
In a landmark project undertaken by Toolijooa Environmental Restoration for the Northern Beaches Council, stainless steel was the material of choice for coastal fencing at Curl Curl Beach. As a coastline exposed to severe conditions, including strong winds, sand movement, extreme temperatures, and high humidity, this site demanded infrastructure that could withstand nature’s harshest elements. You can read the SSWM Stainless Steel Rural & Coastal Fencing Case Study.
Adam Burrowes, Special Projects Officer for the Northern Beaches Council, emphasised the critical role of stainless steel in the dune restoration.
“Stainless steel Strong Lock has been vital in our dune restoration works. Today, we aim to build structures that will outlast us and endure into the future, minimising work for future generations… something galvanised wire cannot guarantee in windy, sandy and high salt environments.”
The project’s success has been recognised by the Australian Stainless Steel Development Association (ASSDA), which featured it in the latest issue of the Australian Stainless Magazine under the title “Stainless Steel Triumphs in Coastal Conservation.”
SSWM’s Range of Stainless Steel Fencing for Coastal Areas
If you require stainless steel fencing for a coastal area, we have a range of products available:
- Strong Lock similar to or also referred to as Hinge Joint or Ring Lock
- Chain Link Fencing
- Hexagonal Netting
- Barbed Wire
Our Product Selection Guide is also a great resource and summary of our stocked products. It is a handy tool that can assist you with the selection and specification of your stainless-steel fencing.
If you would light help navigating our product range, or have questions relating to your project, we can help. Please get in touch.
Why Stainless Steel Fencing is the Solution & Best Practice
Stainless steel remains the ideal choice for coastal fencing, thanks to its unparalleled tensile strength, corrosion resistance, and long-lasting properties. As well as its environmental sustainability.
As a beacon of durability and ecological stewardship, stainless steel fencing sets the standard for best practices in coastal conservation and infrastructure development.
Our Technical Sales Team is here to help please reach out via phone 1300 304 316 or sales@sswm.com.au for further information.
