What Colours and Finishes Do Bollards Come In?

Bollards play a crucial role in managing traffic, ensuring pedestrian safety and protecting property from vehicle collisions. They are available in many styles, from basic fixed models to automatic rising bollard systems.

Security bollards can be finished in a variety of ways, from paint to powder coating. While some bollard colours are purely aesthetic, others (such as the black and yellow bollard) offer greater visibility. Some bollard finishes also provide protection against corrosion, chipping and rust.

In this guide, we will explore the various colours and finishes available for concrete bollards and metal bollards. We’ll also discuss the importance of selecting the right finish for each application.

Bollard Colour Options

The primary purpose of security bollards is to prevent vehicular access to restricted areas. While a bollard of any colour can achieve this aim, it’s also important to consider aesthetic appeal.

One of the major benefits of bollards compared to other types of vehicle barriers is the potential for customisation. Depending on their function and role, bollards can be designed to catch the eye or to complement the surrounding environment.

Bollards come in many colours. For example:

• Black bollards are a popular choice due to their sleek and understated appearance. They blend seamlessly with various architectural styles.
• Stainless steel bollards provide a clean, contemporary and professional look. This is the most popular finish for automatic bollards.
• Yellow and red bollards are bright and easy to see. They are often used for increased visibility and safety, such as to warn drivers about hazards.
• Green bollards are common in parks, gardens and outdoor spaces. They are unobtrusive and blend in with nature while still providing protection and security.

While these are the most common options, custom-made bollards can be personalised with practically any colour or shade. For example, outside commercial premises, bollards may be designed to coordinate with a business’s brand colours.

Bollard Finishes

Selecting the right finish for your bollards is essential for both durability and appearance. A suitable finish not only enhances their visual appeal but can also offer added protection against the elements. This can help to prevent damage and defects in the bollard’s appearance, extending the lifespan of the product.

Stainless Steel

For many types of bollard, stainless steel is a popular finish. The protective stainless steel coating creates a clean, modern exterior which is harder and more resistant to corrosion than normal steel. Stainless steel bollards are able to withstand various weather conditions and require very little maintenance over time.

There are two main types: brushed stainless steel, which has a matte finish, and polished stainless steel, which has a lustrous shine.

Galvanised Steel

Galvanised steel has a protective layer of zinc coating that helps prevent rust. This finish is a good choice for outdoor use, especially damp environments. It gives bollards a distinctive, industrial appearance.

Galvanised steel bollards are long-lasting and require minimal maintenance, making them a cost-effective option for many applications.

Painted Bollards

Paint is a common finish for bollards, especially concrete and traditional iron bollards, which are often painted black. Solvent-based paint is often used over water-based paint, as it is more hard-wearing.

When choosing a painted finish, consider the colour options and how well the paint will withstand weather and use. Painted bollards may be prone to chipping, requiring more frequent touch-ups or repainting.

Powder Coated Bollards

Powder coating is a popular finishing technique for metal bollards, including steel, stainless steel and aluminium. The process involves coating the bollard with a coloured powder which is then cured with heat. This results in a hard, protective layer.

This finish is resistant to chipping, fading, and weathering, making it suitable for both indoor and outdoor applications. Powder coated bollards may be more expensive, but allow for custom colour options in a finish that is more durable than paint.

Special Finishes and Features

Bollards can also be enhanced with special finishes and features to serve specific purposes or create a unique visual appeal.

Ornamental bollards feature decorative designs and patterns that can add a touch of elegance to any environment. These bollards are often crafted from materials such as cast iron, bronze, or aluminium and can be customised to match existing architectural elements or historical themes.

Illuminated bollards incorporate LED lighting to increase visibility and safety. LED colour options can be customised to suit specific needs or preferences, and the energy-efficient nature of LEDs makes them an environmentally friendly choice. Illuminated bollards are particularly useful in poorly lit areas, such as pathways or car parks, where they can improve pedestrian and driver awareness.

Speak to an Expert at Macs Bollards

Choosing the right finish for your bollards is an important aspect of both functionality and aesthetics. By considering the environment, location, and desired appearance, you can select a bollard design that complements its surroundings while offering excellent perimeter protection.

For tailored advice and recommendations, speak to an expert at Macs Bollards. We supply a wide range of bollards including fixed, removable and automatic bollards in a variety of colours and finishes. We pride ourselves on providing robust, reliable and cost-effective solutions with fast turnaround times.

Contact Macs Bollards today to discuss your project with our helpful team. Fill in our enquiry form, email enquiries@macs-bollards.com or call us on 0161 320 6463.