Upgrading old fencing isn’t just about improving how your property looks — it’s about strengthening security, reducing liability, preventing unauthorised access, and meeting compliance standards that evolve every year. Across Sydney, we work with builders, facility managers, developers, and strata managers who discover that ageing fencing often becomes a hidden weak point in their operations. Rusted posts, sagging mesh, broken rails, outdated heights, and non-compliant installations all contribute to unnecessary risk.
Whether you’re managing a commercial site, industrial yard, school, warehouse, strata complex, or new development, upgrading your fencing ensures the property stays safe, secure, and aligned with modern regulations. In this guide, we break down why fencing upgrades matter, the common issues we see on older installations, and how our team at RWAP helps you transition to a stronger, safer, and fully compliant system.
Why Upgrading Old Fencing Is Essential
Many property owners assume fencing lasts indefinitely because steel and mesh appear durable. In reality, fencing is constantly exposed to weather, impacts, vibration, movement, and general wear. Over time, even high-quality installations lose strength and fall short of today’s safety expectations.
Old fencing often creates problems such as:
- Failing compliance with AS 1725 and other standards
- Rust and corrosion around posts and rails
- Loose, sagging, or warped mesh
- Gaps that allow unauthorised access
- Reduced stability from shallow or deteriorated footings
- Broken or outdated gates and latching mechanisms
- Poor aesthetic appearance that lowers property value
For many of our clients, the biggest reason to upgrade is compliance. Regulations change, and older fencing — especially that installed 15+ years ago — rarely meets the safety or structural requirements expected today.
Modern Requirements Demand Modern Fencing
Over time, the expectations around fencing height, durability, and installation methods have increased significantly. Regulatory bodies, insurers, and councils now pay closer attention to how fencing contributes to security, safety, and risk management.
Some examples include:
- Industrial sites must restrict access with compliant heights and anti-climb features
- Schools require fences designed to protect children and deter intruders
- Commercial and retail precincts require improved visibility for surveillance
- Strata complexes must secure shared areas, bin rooms, and car parks
- Construction sites must meet WHS and perimeter safety requirements
When we upgrade fencing, we focus on ensuring the new system aligns with the site’s purpose, security needs and regulatory obligations. This is why clients trust our galvanised chain wire fencing solutions — they are engineered to meet modern performance requirements while offering long-term durability.
Common Issues We Find in Old Fencing
Over the years, we’ve inspected countless existing fence lines for clients preparing to replace or upgrade their systems. Below are the most common issues we encounter with ageing fencing.
1. Corrosion and Rust
Older fencing, especially those near coastlines or high-moisture zones, often suffers from corrosion. Rust weakens the fence at structural points, including posts, rails, and mesh intersections.
2. Failing Footings
Concrete footings can sink, crack, or become loose over time, causing the fence to lean or collapse. Non-compliant footings are a major safety concern, especially on busy or high-risk sites.
3. Structural Instability
Fences that were not originally reinforced or braced correctly tend to warp or shift over time, particularly under wind pressure or impact.
4. Non-compliant Heights
Many older fences fall below the minimum height for modern security requirements, especially on commercial and industrial properties.
5. Damaged Gates and Access Points
Upgrading a fence without updating gates is a common oversight. Gates often wear out faster due to movement, making them a critical point of failure.
6. Outdated Mesh and Materials
Older chain wire systems may have low-gauge wire, worn connections, or mesh that no longer suits current safety expectations.
Upgrading ensures all components — not just the fence line — deliver a structurally sound, compliant, and secure solution.
How RWAP Helps You Upgrade to a Stronger, Safer Fencing System
Upgrading old fencing doesn’t need to be complicated. RWAP‘s approach focuses on assessing your site needs, addressing existing weaknesses, and supplying high-quality, compliant materials that stand the test of time.
Here’s how we support builders, developers, and property managers through the upgrade process.
1. On-Site Assessment and Technical Guidance
We start by identifying the condition of your existing fence and understanding what your site needs in terms of security, access, and compliance. Whether your upgrade is minor or extensive, we guide you through:
- Recommended heights
- Structural reinforcements
- Material selection
- Placement and spacing
- Compliance expectations
- Security upgrades
- Cost-effective alternatives
This ensures you make informed decisions before the upgrade begins.
2. Supplying Durable, Compliant Materials
A successful upgrade largely depends on the quality of materials used. That’s why we supply high-strength steel components, high-quality mesh, and durable finishes designed for Sydney’s changing conditions.
Our chain wire fencing products are engineered to withstand daily wear, weather exposure, and the rigors of industrial use. We also supply custom posts, rails, and structural components designed to match your site’s specific requirements.
3. Custom Fabrication for Unique Sites
Not all sites follow a standard layout. Many older developments have irregular boundaries, tight access, sloped terrain, or unusual configurations.
We provide custom-fabricated steel fencing components, ensuring every part of your upgrade fits perfectly.
This reduces installation time, prevents rework, and ensures the upgraded fence aligns with your site’s geometry.
4. Improving Security with Add-Ons and Accessories
Upgrading your fence is the perfect time to add modern security features such as:
- Barbed wire or razor wire extensions
- Anti-climb brackets
- Additional rails for reinforcement
- Security-grade mesh
- High-strength steel gates
- Locking and access systems
These features provide an immediate improvement to risk management and reduce unauthorised access, especially for industrial and commercial facilities.
5. Ensuring Compliance With Australian Standards
Compliance is not optional — it protects your property, reduces liability, and ensures your fencing meets inspection standards.
We ensure your upgraded fencing aligns with:
- AS 1725 chain link fencing standards
- WHS safety requirements
- Local council regulations
- Industry-specific safety guidelines
Compliance is crucial for childcare centres, schools, industrial yards, and construction sites. Our experience across these sectors ensures your upgrade meets the right expectations.
Signs It’s Time to Upgrade Your Fence
If you notice any of the following issues, your fence is likely overdue for replacement:
- Leaning posts or sagging mesh
- Visible rust or surface corrosion
- Gaps caused by shifting soil or worn components
- Outdated height or security features
- Broken gate latches, hinges, or rails
- Mesh damage from weather, impacts, or vandalism
- Non-compliant materials or installation methods
Older fencing usually deteriorates slowly, making issues easy to overlook; however, once they appear, they tend to escalate quickly.
Upgrading Your Fence Improves Safety, Longevity, and Peace of Mind
A fence upgrade is an investment in the long-term safety and efficiency of your property. New fencing improves:
- Site security
- Perimeter control
- Compliance with Australian Standards
- Structural stability
- Aesthetic appeal
- Resale value
- Tenant and user confidence
With high-quality materials and correct installation, your new fence will protect your property for years to come.
Ready to Upgrade Your Fencing? Contact RWAP Today
If your old fence is showing signs of wear or no longer meets safety expectations, upgrading is the best way to protect your site. Whether you need new chain wire fencing, custom-made steel posts and rails, or help planning a full perimeter upgrade, reach out to our team at RWAP.
We’ll help you assess your site, select the right materials, and upgrade your fencing to a secure, durable, and compliant system built to last.