It almost goes without saying that safety and security have become top priorities for commercial, industrial, and even residential properties. With the growing need to safeguard assets, infrastructure, and pedestrians, security bollards have become a vital element in the design of secure spaces. Because we see them everywhere, it can be easy to forget the powerful role bollards play in terms of access control, impact resistance, and perimeter protection.
Whether you’re securing a storefront, government facility, warehouse, or public space, understanding the types of security bollards available is critical. Each bollard type offers unique benefits, and selecting the right one can enhance both the functionality and safety of your environment.
In this post, we’re exploring the most common types of security bollards, examining what makes a bollard truly secure. We’ll also highlight the unique advantages of steel pipe bollards — one of the most popular and effective options in the industry.
What Are Security Bollards?
Security bollards are short, vertical posts typically installed in the ground to act as physical barriers. While they can serve aesthetic or traffic-directing purposes, their primary role in security is to prevent vehicle intrusion — whether accidental or intentional.
These bollards are commonly seen outside:
- Retail stores and banks
- Government buildings
- Pedestrian walkways
- Stadiums and arenas
- Airports and transportation hubs
- Data centers and critical infrastructure
Depending on their design and material, security bollards can:
- Stop or deter vehicles from accessing restricted areas
- Provide a clear boundary without obstructing pedestrian flow
- Resist impact and protect buildings from crashes or ramming attacks
- Enhance the visual appeal of a property while improving safety
6 of the Most Common Types of Security Bollards
There are numerous types of security bollards available, each designed to meet different security needs, operational environments, and aesthetic considerations. Let’s explore the most commonly used and effective types.
1. Steel Pipe Bollards
Steel pipe bollards are one of the most trusted and widely used types of security bollards on the market. These bollards are typically constructed from structural-grade steel pipe, often filled with concrete for additional strength.
Benefits:
- High impact resistance: Designed to absorb and dissipate vehicle energy, especially when embedded deep into concrete footings.
- Durability: Steel is resistant to corrosion, especially when galvanized or powder-coated, and withstands outdoor environments well.
- Cost-effective: Offers a high level of security with a relatively low material and installation cost.
- Customizable appearance: Can be covered with decorative sleeves to match architectural aesthetics.
Steel pipe bollards are ideal for:
- Storefront protection
- Critical infrastructure defense
- Parking lot perimeters
- Government buildings and embassies
2. Concrete Bollards
Concrete bollards are heavy-duty bollards made from precast or poured concrete. They are often seen in city centers and government campuses due to their sheer mass and visual presence.
Benefits:
- Massive stopping power: Due to their weight and density, concrete bollards can stop vehicles without internal reinforcements.
- Permanent installation: Typically embedded deeply in concrete footings, they offer a permanent security solution.
- Architectural value: Available in various shapes and finishes to complement public landscapes.
Considerations:
- Susceptible to chipping or cracking over time
- Less flexible than steel bollards if removal or upgrades are needed
Concrete bollards are a smart choice for:
- Civic spaces
- Public buildings
- Universities and campuses
3. Retractable Bollards
Retractable or telescopic bollards are designed to be raised and lowered as needed for access. They offer flexible security for areas that require intermittent vehicle access.
Benefits:
- On-demand security: Can be retracted flush with the ground when access is needed, then extended for protection.
- Manual or automatic operation: Some models operate via key-locks, hydraulics, or electronic control systems.
- Space-saving: When retracted, they do not interfere with pedestrian or vehicle traffic.
Considerations:
- Requires ongoing maintenance
- Higher installation and system costs
Retractable bollards are ideal for:
- Service entrances
- Event spaces
- High-security facilities with dynamic access needs
4. Removable Bollards
Removable bollards are similar in use to retractable bollards, but they are physically removed from their base rather than retracting.
Benefits:
- Portable protection: Easily removed when not in use, allowing full access.
- Lightweight options: Available in materials such as aluminum or plastic for easy handling and transportation.
- Cost-effective flexibility: Offers a lower cost than fully automatic systems.
Considerations:
- Requires secure storage when removed
- May offer less impact resistance depending on the material
Use removable bollards for:
- Temporary road closures
- Parking management
- Event or festival spaces
5. Automatic Bollards
Whether hydraulic or electric, automatic bollards are high-end security solutions that raise or lower with the use of a remote control, access card, or automated system, these are often used in high-threat environments.
Benefits:
- High-security integration: Often integrated with surveillance, access control, and alarm systems.
- Crash-rated designs available: Some models meet federal or international crash-test standards.
- Seamless operation: Quick to respond, ideal for emergency access control.
Considerations:
- Expensive to install and maintain
- Requires power and system backups
Perfect for:
- Embassies and military bases
- Financial institutions
- Airports and sensitive infrastructure
6. Flexible or Plastic Bollards
Best suited for lower-security applications, these bollards are typically made from high-impact plastic or rubber. They are designed primarily for visual guidance or traffic control rather than physical security.
Benefits:
- Cost-effective: Ideal for non-critical environments
- Flexible design: Can withstand repeated impacts without damage
- Easy to replace: Lightweight and modular
Best used in:
- Parking lots
- Warehouses
- Sidewalks and bike lanes
What to Look for in a Security Bollard
When selecting a security bollard for your property, it’s essential to consider not only the price but also the specific needs of your space. Here are the top factors to evaluate:
Security Level
Ask yourself:
- Are you trying to prevent accidental collisions or intentional vehicle attacks?
- Do you need a crash-rated bollard to meet industry standards?
- Is your location vulnerable to ram-raids or terror threats?
Material Strength
In most situations, a strong and durable material is essential for ensuring that a security bollard can perform its intended function. When considering material strength, keep the following guidelines in mind:
- Steel is the industry standard for impact resistance.
- Ensure proper embedment depth and concrete footing to maximize effectiveness.
Steel pipe bollards, when properly installed, offer the best combination of strength, versatility, and affordability. With the ability to be filled with concrete and finished with decorative covers, they provide both form and function. This makes them a go-to choice for architects, engineers, and security planners alike.
Aesthetics
While security is the primary function, most property owners want their security bollards to be as visible as possible. Here are some ideas to help with the aesthetics of bollards:
- Consider bollard sleeves to match the design of your property.
- Decorative bollards can blend seamlessly with both heritage and modern architecture without compromising strength.
Functionality and Flexibility
Think about the functional needs of your space when planning to install security bollards:
- Do you need permanent or removable bollards?
- Will the bollards be operated manually or automatically?
- How often will the bollards need to be adjusted, raised, or removed?
Compliance and Standards
Always ensure your bollards meet any relevant:
- Crash-test standards
- Accessibility guidelines (ADA compliance)
- Local zoning or fire department regulations
Strong and Durable Bollards for Maximum Security
Security bollards play a crucial role in creating safer environments — not just for buildings and vehicles, but for people. Whether you’re protecting a storefront from ram-raids, controlling access to a government facility, or guiding traffic in a busy public space, there’s a bollard type that fits your needs.
From the strength of steel pipe bollards to the flexibility of retractable and automatic systems, understanding your options can help you make an informed, cost-effective choice.
If you’re serious about security, don’t underestimate the value of investing in the correct type of bollard — especially those made from high-strength materials like steel. They offer unmatched reliability, longevity, and peace of mind.
At Tampa Steel & Supply, we stock an extensive inventory of pre-cut steel pipe bollards, including popular sizes of 4″ and 6″ diameter and lengths ranging from 6 ′ to 7 ′, to accommodate standard installation methods and local codes. We also offer decorative pipe bollard sleeves and bollards in various sizes and materials, including steel, stainless steel, and aluminum.
Visit Tampa Steel & Supply for Quality Metal and Metal Processing Services
Do you have questions about bollards or need support with metalworking and maintaining your metal? The experienced professionals at Tampa Steel & Supply are here to help. We provide the highest quality of services to our customers.
Request a quote online or call Tampa Steel & Supply at (813) 241-2801.