What is Heras Fencing?

Heras fencing is a type of temporary metal mesh fencing commonly used to establish boundaries around construction sites, outdoor events, festivals and other locations requiring temporary separation or controlled access. It consists of individual fencing panels connected together to form a continuous boundary, supported by suitable bases and stabilisation equipment.

Unlike permanent fencing, Heras fencing can be installed for a specific project and removed when it is no longer required. Panels can also be repositioned when the layout of a site changes.

At Temp Fencing 247, we supply temporary fencing and supporting event infrastructure throughout the UK. This guide explains what Heras fencing is, how it works, where it is used and what to consider before arranging a hire.

What Does Heras Fencing Look Like?

Heras fencing is typically made up of rectangular steel mesh panels with a surrounding metal frame. The mesh construction allows people to see through the fence while providing a clearly defined physical boundary.

Individual panels are positioned alongside one another and connected to create longer fencing runs. Depending on the system and installation, the panels may be supported by temporary fencing feet, couplers, stabilisers, braces or ballast.

The modular design allows fencing to follow the shape of a site, incorporate access points and be adapted as requirements change.

Although the term Heras fencing is widely used to describe temporary mesh fencing, Heras is also a fencing brand. Not every temporary mesh panel is necessarily manufactured by Heras.

How Big Is a Standard Heras Fencing Panel?

A commonly used temporary mesh fencing panel measures approximately 3.5 metres wide and 2 metres high. However, dimensions can vary between manufacturers and individual fencing systems.

For an initial estimate, the following dimensions are useful:

Specification	Typical measurement or feature
Panel width	Approximately 3.5 metres
Panel height	Approximately 2 metres
Construction	Metal frame with mesh infill
Installation	Connected panels with appropriate supports and stabilisation
Common applications	Construction sites, events, temporary compounds and restricted areas

These are indicative specifications rather than guaranteed dimensions for every product. Confirm the measurements of the fencing system being supplied when planning your site.

What Is Heras Fencing Used For?

The main purpose of Heras fencing is to create a temporary physical boundary. It can be used to separate working areas, define the perimeter of an event, establish temporary compounds or indicate where access is restricted.

Its modular construction makes it useful in locations where permanent fencing would be unnecessary or unsuitable.

Construction Site Fencing

Construction projects are one of the most common applications for temporary mesh fencing.

Heras fencing can be installed around active working areas, equipment compounds, material storage locations and other parts of a construction site requiring separation from the surrounding environment.

It can also be repositioned as a project progresses. For example, a contractor may need a larger working area during the early stages of construction before reducing or moving the fenced perimeter as different sections are completed.

The appropriate fencing arrangement should reflect the hazards, access requirements and site conditions rather than relying on panel height alone to provide security.

Festival and Outdoor Event Fencing

Temporary fencing can establish the external boundary of a festival or divide individual sections within a larger outdoor venue.

It may be used around production compounds, equipment storage areas, temporary facilities and other locations where a defined perimeter is required.

At larger events, Heras fencing can be combined with other systems. Standard crowd control barriers may be used around queues and pedestrian routes, while specialist concert barriers can be considered for appropriate audience areas.

For locations requiring a more substantial screened boundary, our steel shielding fencing provides another option.

Temporary Commercial and Industrial Compounds

Businesses may require a temporary enclosed area for refurbishment work, equipment storage, maintenance projects or short-term operational requirements.

Heras fencing allows a boundary to be established without constructing a permanent fence, making it useful where the enclosed area is only needed for the duration of a particular project.

Public Events and Temporary Restricted Areas

Temporary fencing can also help establish restricted areas at public events, sporting occasions, exhibitions and other organised activities.

Where the main requirement is to guide pedestrians rather than create a taller boundary, crowd control barriers may be a more suitable option.

How Is Heras Fencing Installed?

Heras fencing is generally installed by positioning individual panels along the proposed fence line, connecting them and providing suitable support for the intended application.

The exact installation method depends on the fencing system, ground conditions, location and expected loads.

Typical installation components can include:

• Fencing panels: The main metal mesh sections that form the temporary boundary.

• Fencing feet or bases: Components that support the panels at ground level.

• Couplers or clamps: Connections that join adjacent panels together.

• Stabilisers and braces: Additional support where required by the installation design.

• Ballast or ground fixings: Components used where appropriate to the surface and support arrangement.

• Temporary gates: Access points for pedestrians, vehicles or deliveries.

Installation should account for the site conditions and the intended use of the fencing. A panel quantity calculation alone is not sufficient to determine the complete installation requirements.

Can Heras Fencing Be Installed on Grass, Concrete or Tarmac?

Temporary mesh fencing can be installed on different types of ground, provided the chosen system and support arrangement are appropriate for the location.

Grass and soil may allow certain ground-fixing methods where suitable. Concrete and tarmac require arrangements compatible with hard standing, which may include appropriate bases, stabilisation and ballast.

Uneven ground, slopes, exposed locations and areas subject to significant pedestrian or operational activity may require additional consideration.

Tell your fencing supplier what surface the panels will stand on and whether there are any known access or installation restrictions.

Is Heras Fencing Suitable for Windy Weather?

Temporary fencing can be used outdoors in changing weather conditions, but its stability depends on the system, installation, exposure and site-specific circumstances.

Wind can place significant loads on fencing. Adding banners, screening or other solid materials can increase the area exposed to wind and change the forces acting on the installation.

Suitable supports, stabilisation and installation methods should therefore be determined for the actual location and conditions.

No temporary fencing system should be assumed to be windproof. Weather conditions should be monitored, and appropriate action taken when conditions exceed the limits of the installed system.

What Is the Difference Between Heras Fencing and Steel Shielding?

Heras fencing and steel shielding can both establish temporary boundaries, but their construction and typical applications differ.

Feature	Temporary mesh fencing	Temp Fencing 247 steel shielding
Panel construction	Metal mesh	Heavy-duty steel shielding
Typical panel height	Approximately 2 metres	3 metres
Typical panel width	Approximately 3.5 metres	2.4 metres
Visibility	Mesh allows visibility through the panels	Provides screening
Common applications	Construction perimeters, temporary compounds and event boundaries	Festival production areas, backstage compounds and substantial screened boundaries

Our steel shielding panels are Juniper green and provide a large surface that can also be used for event advertising and branding.

The appropriate choice depends on the level of separation, screening, access and installation requirements of your site.

How Much Heras Fencing Do I Need?

To estimate the quantity of standard temporary mesh fencing required, measure the total length of your proposed boundary and divide it by the width of the panels being supplied.

For nominal 3.5-metre panels:

Estimated panel quantity = Total fencing length in metres ÷ 3.5

Round the result up to the next whole panel.

For example, a straight 70-metre boundary would require an initial estimate of 20 standard 3.5-metre panels.

Gates, corners, changes in direction and site-specific installation arrangements may affect the final quantity.

For worked examples and further advice, read our guide to calculating how much temporary fencing you need.

How Much Does Heras Fencing Hire Cost?

The cost of hiring Heras fencing depends on several factors, including the number of panels, hire duration, delivery location and installation requirements.

A short fencing run required for a weekend event will have different logistical and equipment requirements from a substantial construction perimeter needed for several months.

Additional considerations can include access gates, stabilisation equipment, site conditions and whether the fencing needs to be moved or reconfigured during the hire.

For an accurate quotation, provide the approximate fencing length, location, intended use and required hire dates.

Is Hiring Heras Fencing Better Than Buying It?

Hiring temporary fencing can be practical when the equipment is only needed for a particular project or event.

It allows customers to arrange fencing for the required period without having to purchase, store and transport their own panels between jobs.

Buying may be worth considering for organisations that use temporary fencing regularly and have suitable storage, transport and maintenance arrangements.

The most appropriate option depends on how frequently the equipment will be used, the quantity required and the total costs associated with ownership or hire.

Heras Fencing FAQs

Is Heras fencing permanent?

No. Heras fencing is designed as a temporary or relocatable fencing system. It can remain in place for the required project period, subject to suitable installation, inspection and maintenance, before being dismantled or repositioned.

Can you put gates in Heras fencing?

Yes. Temporary fencing arrangements can incorporate suitable pedestrian and vehicle access points. The gate type and width should be selected according to the intended use and the fencing system being installed.

Can Heras fencing be used at festivals?

Yes. Temporary mesh fencing can be used to establish event perimeters, equipment compounds and restricted sections. Other barrier systems may be required for crowd management or specialist audience applications.

Is Heras fencing the same as crowd control barriers?

No. Heras fencing generally consists of taller mesh panels used to establish temporary boundaries. Crowd control barriers are typically lower barriers used to guide pedestrians, define queues and separate areas at events and other public locations.

Can Heras fencing be moved during a project?

Yes. Its modular construction allows a temporary fence line to be reconfigured when site requirements change. Any alterations should maintain appropriate access, stability and separation for the new arrangement.

How long can I hire temporary fencing for?

Hire duration depends on the project. Temporary fencing may be required for a short event, a longer construction programme or another temporary use. Contact us with your required dates and location to discuss availability and hire arrangements.

Nationwide Heras Fencing Hire From Temp Fencing 247

Temp Fencing 247 supplies temporary fencing and supporting infrastructure for construction sites, festivals, concerts, commercial projects and other temporary requirements throughout the UK.

With over 40 years of experience in the entertainment and events industry, we understand the importance of choosing equipment that suits the site rather than relying on a standard arrangement for every job.

Our fully trained staff can deliver and install temporary infrastructure, and we are fully covered by public liability insurance.

Alongside temporary fencing, our range includes crowd control barriers, concert barriers, steel shielding, trackway and temporary flooring and portable toilets and welfare facilities.

We provide nationwide coverage, including London, Manchester, Birmingham, Leeds, Liverpool, Newcastle, Glasgow, Leicester and surrounding areas. Further information is available on our areas covered page.

Get a Quote for Heras Fencing Hire

If you need temporary fencing for a construction project, festival, public event or commercial site, contact Temp Fencing 247 to discuss your requirements.

It is helpful to have the approximate length of the proposed boundary, the site location, ground conditions, access requirements and hire dates available when making your enquiry.

Our team can discuss the relevant fencing options, delivery and installation arrangements for your project.

Call: 0800 009 6520 Mobile: 07773 397949 Email: info@tempfencing247.co.uk

Temp Fencing 247: temporary fencing and event infrastructure hire throughout the UK.