Security Bollard Buying Guide
Choosing the right driveway security bollard can feel overwhelming with so many options available. This guide from Bison Products — the UK's leading bollard manufacturer since 1972 — breaks down everything you need to know to protect your property, vehicles, and peace of mind.
What Type of Bollard Do You Need?
Telescopic Bollards (Most Popular)
Telescopic bollards retract into a ground sleeve when not in use, sitting flush with the driveway surface. When raised, they provide a strong physical barrier against unauthorised vehicle access. This is the most popular choice for residential driveways.
- Ramco 100 — Heavy-duty telescopic bollard. Anti-ram rated, built from thick-walled steel. Best for high-security applications or properties on busy roads. Our best seller.
- Ramco 70 — Lightweight telescopic bollard. Same security principle, lighter construction. Ideal for parking space reservation and everyday driveway protection.
- Ramco 600 — Round, contemporary design. Available in multiple colours (black, anthracite, stainless steel, copper gold, pink, matte black). Choose this when appearance matters as much as security.
Static Bollards
Permanently fixed bollards that don't move. Used for perimeter protection, car park boundaries, and asset protection. Lower cost than telescopic but no access flexibility.
- Heavy Duty Static Bollard — Concrete-in steel bollard, 1200mm overall height
- Static Barriers — Full range of fixed perimeter protection
Fold-Down Bollards
Hinged bollards that fold flat when access is needed. Simpler mechanism than telescopic, suitable for lower-risk applications where a visual deterrent is the primary goal.
- Ramco Fold Down Bollard — Padlocked folding post
Automatic Bollards
Electrically or battery-powered bollards that raise and lower at the push of a button or remote control. Premium option for maximum convenience — no bending down to operate.
- Ramco Auto Guard Battery Bollard — Battery-powered, no mains wiring needed
- BFT Stoppy B 500 — Mains-powered automatic retractable bollard
- BFT Stoppy B 700 — 700mm high, mains-powered
- XPASS 800 K4 — Anti-terrorism rated, LED-lit automatic bollard
How Many Bollards Do I Need?
The number of bollards depends on your driveway width. As a general rule:
- Single driveway (up to 3m): 1 bollard positioned centrally
- Double driveway (3m–4.5m): 2 bollards evenly spaced
- Wide driveway (4.5m–6m): 2–3 bollards
- Very wide entrance (6m+): 3+ bollards
Browse our pre-configured multi-packs: up to 3m | up to 4.5m | 6m | 7.5m
DIY vs Professional Installation
Every Bison Products bollard can be installed as a DIY project by a competent person with basic tools. However, we also offer professional installation across England & Wales.
DIY installation involves:
- Core-drilling a hole in the driveway surface (concrete, tarmac, or block paving)
- Setting the ground sleeve with concrete
- Allowing 24–48 hours for the concrete to cure
- Inserting the bollard post
Professional installation by Bison Products:
- Our team handles everything — core-drilling, concrete, fitting
- Typically completed in 1–2 hours per bollard
- Available as an add-on option on most bollard product pages
- Browse all bollards with installation included →
Which Bollard for Which Vehicle?
Different bollards are rated for different levels of vehicle impact resistance:
- Small vehicles (cars, motorbikes) — Ramco 70 or Fold Down
- Mid-sized vehicles (SUVs, vans) — Ramco 100 or Ramco 600
- Large vehicles (trucks, commercial) — Ramco 100 Heavy Duty or XPASS 800
Bollard Materials & Finishes
- Mild steel (galvanised) — Standard, cost-effective, durable. Most popular.
- Stainless steel — Premium finish, corrosion-resistant, modern appearance. Browse stainless steel range →
- Painted finishes — Available in black, anthracite, copper gold, pink, yellow, matte black. Browse painted range →
Frequently Asked Questions
How deep is the hole for a telescopic bollard?
Typically 400–500mm deep depending on the model. The ground sleeve sits in a concrete foundation below the driveway surface. Full measurements are provided with each product.
Can bollards be installed in block paving?
Yes. A section of paving is removed, the hole is core-drilled into the sub-base, the sleeve is concreted in, and the paving is relaid around it. Professional installation is recommended for block paving.
Do bollards damage my driveway?
When installed correctly, the only visible change is a small circular cap (roughly the diameter of a drainpipe) flush with the surface. When the bollard is retracted, most people wouldn't notice it.
How long do Ramco bollards last?
With basic maintenance (occasional lubrication of the lock mechanism), Ramco bollards last 15–20+ years. Replacement lock packs and inner tubes are available as spare parts if ever needed.
Are bollards effective against theft?
Yes. Bollards are one of the most effective physical deterrents against vehicle theft, caravan theft, and unauthorised driveway access. They create a visible, permanent barrier that opportunistic thieves actively avoid.
Ready to Choose?
Browse our full bollard range → or contact our team for personalised advice. We've been helping UK homeowners and businesses secure their properties since 1972.