Timber Bollards vs Metal Bollards: Which Is Right for Your Public Space?


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various wooden bollards

Choosing the right bollard material is essential for balancing security, durability, and aesthetic appeal in any outdoor environment. Whether you’re managing traffic in a busy city centre or enhancing the look of a rural village green, understanding the key differences between timber bollards and metal bollards will help you make an informed investment.

At Orchard Street Furniture, we manufacture a wide range of bollards designed for public spaces across the UK. In this guide, we’ll explore the pros and cons of each material to help you choose the ideal bollard for your next project.

 

Why Bollard Material Matters in Street Design

Bollards play a crucial role in:

  • Controlling vehicle access
  • Enhancing pedestrian safety
  • Preventing unauthorised parking
  • Adding visual appeal to public spaces

Your choice between wooden bollards and steel or metal bollards affects both functionality and visuality—especially when you’re working on council projects, urban landscaping, or heritage sites.

 

Barmack Timber Bollard

Timber Bollards – Natural and Eco-Friendly

Key Benefits of Timber Bollards

  • Visual appeal: Timber bollards offer a warm, natural look that blends seamlessly into parks, heritage areas, and countryside settings.
  • Sustainability: Made from FSC-certified wood, our timber bollards are an environmentally responsible choice.
  • Customisation options: Choose from various shapes, tops, and finishes to suit your design scheme.

 Best Use Cases for Timber Bollards

  • Village greens and market squares
  • Countryside pathways and nature reserves
  • Historical or conservation areas

Limitations of Timber Bollards

  • Lower impact resistance: Timber isn’t as resistant to vehicle collisions as metal.
  • Maintenance required: Periodic treatment is needed to protect against weathering and rot.

Browse our timber bollards, here…​

 

yellow metal bollards

Metal Bollards – Strong and Secure

Key Benefits of Metal Bollards

  • High durability: Metal bollards, particularly galvanised or stainless steel, offer excellent resistance to impact and harsh weather.
  • Security features: Ideal for anti-ram and vehicle restriction applications in high-risk areas.
  • Low maintenance: Metal bollards generally require less upkeep over time.

 Best Use Cases for Metal Bollards

  • High-traffic urban areas
  • Commercial or retail environments
  • Car parks and roadways

 Limitations of Metal Bollards

  • Industrial appearance: Can look harsh in natural or historic settings.
  • Heat and corrosion risks: Lower-quality metals may suffer in coastal or exposed environments unless properly treated.

 

 

Timber vs Metal Bollards – Side-by-Side Comparison

Feature Timber Bollards Metal Bollards
Appearance Natural, rustic, blends with nature Sleek, modern, urban
Durability Moderate (treated timber) High (galvanised or stainless steel)
Maintenance Requires periodic treatment Low-maintenance
Security Suitable for light access control Suitable for high-security needs
Environmental Impact FSC-certified, sustainable May have higher carbon footprint
Cost Generally lower upfront Higher, but longer-lasting

 

So Which Bollard Is Best for You?

The right choice depends on your project goals:

  • Choose timber bollards if you’re designing for natural landscapes, conservation areas, or need a softer visual finish.
  • Choose metal bollards if your focus is on long-term durability, vehicle resistance, and urban environments.

 

Take a look at more of our products, here…