How Much Do Bollards Cost?

The cost of bollards is variable, depending on everything from the bollard type to the installation method - and of course the number of posts you need to buy. 

But it’s useful to get an idea of the costs involved, so this article will take you through the key considerations and help you decide what to buy.

How much do bollards cost?

We can’t give you a “standard” cost for bollards, as it depends on numerous factors. However, here is a breakdown of the likely costs involved.

Bollards 

Firstly, there’s the cost of the bollards themselves. This differs between manufacturers and suppliers, but specialist types (such as anti-ram or retractable bollards) will always cost more than standard posts.

The finish will also affect the price. Stainless steel is more expensive than other types of steel, but it looks premium and is less likely to rust - which is important if your bollards will be exposed to the elements.

If you’re on a strict budget, a plain galvanised fixed post will be the most cost-effective option - followed by a hinged or fold-down post.

While certain bollards have a higher upfront cost, they can save you money in the long run. The more durable the construction, the longer it will take before they need to be replaced.

Check out our bollards buying guide for more information.

Labour

If you choose to hire a professional to install your bollards, you’ll need to factor in the cost of labour. This will vary between contractors, and the fee will also depend on the type of bollard and method of installation.

For example, digging a foundation for a cast-in bollard takes more time and effort than setting up a bolt-down model. Retractable bollards are the most time-consuming (and therefore expensive) to install as they require a deeper excavation.

If you have basic DIY knowledge, you should be able to carry out the installation yourself - in which case the only cost is your own time.

Tools and equipment

If you’re doing the work yourself, you may need to buy or hire the correct tools and materials. Again, this cost varies hugely according to the type of installation.

For instance, a bolt-down model only requires an SDS drill and a hole blower. But for embedding a post into concrete or tarmac, you’ll need an auger or post-digging shovel, plus material to backfill the foundation.

It’s important to check for underground cables or pipes before digging, which can add an extra cost. There are free online portals that list underground utilities, but you may need a professional survey or a specific detection tool.

Here’s our guidance on how to install bollards.

The cost of not installing bollards

As well as considering the long-term savings from quality bollards, you have to weigh up the cost of the bollards + installation against the potentially costly consequences of not having them at all.

Let’s use driveway bollards as an example. Without them as protection, you could experience vehicle theft, which would bump up your future insurance premiums.

Similarly, if you decide not to install security bollards outside your shop and a ram-raider or a careless driver crashes through the frontage, the damage could cost more than the bollards would have done.

In a warehouse or factory, a lack of protective bollards brings the risk of a forklift hitting valuable assets or damaging machinery, halting production or delivery for weeks and incurring huge costs.

Final thoughts

There are multiple factors involved in the cost of bollards, and “value for money” means different things to different people. By choosing the right bollards for your needs, you can actually save money in the long run.

We have bollards to suit all budgets, as well as tools for installation. Ask our friendly sales team about bulk discounts!