Use of Finishes on Fencing, Gates and Rails

BS EN ISO 146 provides a specification concerning the general properties of coatings used and the standards required for the treatment of iron and steel today. These guidelines are produced by the British Standard Institute (BSI) and are essential to be followed in order to protect structures made of these materials. These coatings, also called finishes, provide maximum protection against corrosion after they have been hot dip galvanised.

Structures that often need this treatment include fencing such as bow top, chevron and flat top fences. As well as providing protection, these coatings can improve surface properties of the structure such as adhesion, wet ability, scratch resistance and wear resistance. Aesthetically these coatings can also improve the appearance of the structure using colour or texture.

Bow top fencing is regularly used for parks and children’s play areas. Often used for its security benefits and lack of sharp edges, this type of fencing comes in a variety of styles such as interlaced, bow in bow and bar in bow.  Factory applied polyester powder coated finish can be applied to this fencing, in a wide range of colours that can make the fencing match with the surroundings and be eye catching to passers-by.

Fencing has been around for thousands of years, ever since humans had possessions, land and farms we have had fencing. Ultimately they are used to keep things in or out of a particular space, marking boundaries or for privacy reasons.  Chevron and flat top fencing are popular railing systems that can be suitable for most applications. As an alternative to polyester powder coating, site applied wet painting services are available from a wide variety of companies such as Alpha Rail who offers both procedures following guidelines produced by the BSI.

Finishes can be applied to a wide range of fencing, gates and rails. It is true that fencing and railing systems ultimately need to be strong, robust and safe but that does not mean that they can’t be aesthetically pleasing.

To see designs incorporating colour and shape to communicate ideas visit Alpha Rail today! For enquiries call 01623 750 214.

Alpharail's fantastic range of gates

If you are looking to add extra security or privacy to your home or business then one thing that could help is a gate. There are many different types available on the market today. So which one is best for you?

Here at Alpharail our experienced staff will be happy to advise and help you find the best type of gate to suit your needs and budget. We can produce a variety of gate solutions ranging from plain to ornate gates, to match any fencing or railing systems you may already have installed.

Over the years we have worked on many commercial and residential properties including schools, parklands, commercial businesses and new housing developments.

For commercial businesses security is paramount. Having properly secured premises will often act as a deterrent to thieves. At Alpharail we would recommend using either sliding or swing gates depending on the type of business. We can manufacture a variety of gates in different sizes and styles to suit your needs. Below is an example of one of our gates designed for business use. Unlike most standard gates we have made this particular gate with an ornate finish and added bit of colour to complete the overall look.



Most of the gates we work on are usually finish in black, however, when we worked on a school we had the opportunity to not only inject a bit of colour into the gate, but to create a very ornate gate to reflect the school and the children.


For residential properties we would recommend a simple swing gate. This is the most popular type of gate. A swing gate is hinged gate that opens and closes. They can either be single or double depending on the space they have to cover.



So whatever your need or budget, here at Alpharail we believe we have the right gate for you! Let Alpharail help you to secure your home or business and help give you peace of mind.