Most fencing styles today incorporate more than one sport into the mix, which is known as MUGA fencing, or multiple-use games area fencing. But the suitable fencing for your sports ground encompasses more – it should aim not just to prevent different balls from escaping, but it should also have attractiveness and blend with the background of your facility. In addition, the sports ground fencing you choose should look good and act as a protective barrier, both for the players and anyone watching. But what makes a good sports ground fence? If you’re planning to install a new one or replace an old one, here are some essential pointers to follow.
- Height. When it comes to the height of your fencing, remember that the height can range from 2.4 m to 5 m, with the support of posts made of steel.
- It should have a lower section expressly for rebound balls, and it should be approximately 1.2 m high. In addition, it should have different specs; for instance, it is common to see fencing with a section for rebounds made from mesh with smaller apertures, whilst the upper section will have larger apertures.
- Rebound fencing is generally better than rebound boards, as they offer improved visibility and security plus are often less noisy when hit by balls.
- Two kinds of sports ground fencing are usually available: chain link and welded mesh. Welded mesh has a longer lifespan and is sturdier, although it is more expensive. On the other hand, chain link is less costly initially but requires regular repair and tensioning, which will end up costing you more in the long term. Nowadays, it is more common to find welded mesh fencing than chain link fencing, according to fencing contractors like RTCFencing.co.uk.
- If your sports ground is near a road, it might be in your best interest to increase the fencing’s height and add some form of net above the panels. Alternatively, you could opt for a roof covered by a net, so the area is fully-enclosed.
- To prevent players from running into the steel posts, position them outside the fence along with fasteners placed inside to ensure that the surface is as flush as possible. Clamping helps lessen noise as well whenever the fencing is hit by a player or a ball.
- We would recommend installing a bolt hole gate right within your MUGA fencing so that anyone who is bullied can have a chance of escaping. As a standard, the gate should be the same height as the rebound fencing and fitted with spring latches so it can be opened from the inside and can self-close.
- If your facility does not require a full enclosure, you can put up a spectator railing to separate the pitch or court or the area for playing from the area for viewing. You can choose spectator railing in different styles and infills according to your requirements or to be a good match for the installed fencing. You also have the added option of installing the rails closer to the play area and allocating higher fences to prevent any stray or crazy balls; this can serve the additional purpose of providing security for the perimeter of the site.
- The gates should have low-profile bars and external framing to reduce the likelihood of injury to any player, and they should always have an outward opening.
