Barbican Imperial Vs Barbican Imperial Residential

When it comes to perimeter security and boundary definition, Jacksons Fencing offers a wide range of railing systems designed to meet different needs including vertical bar railings and metal railings. Two popular options, Barbican Imperial vertical bar railings and Barbican Imperial Residential metal railings, often cause confusion because of their similar names. While they share certain construction qualities, they are designed for different applications and audiences. Understanding their differences helps specifiers, contractors, and homeowners choose the right product for their environment.

Vertical Bar Railings vs. Metal Railings

Before diving into the specifics of the Barbican Imperial products, it’s helpful to clarify the distinction between vertical bar railings and metal railings in general:

Vertical bar railings are primarily designed for security. Their taller heights, thicker pales, and more robust construction make them suitable for sites where protection and deterrence are critical, such as schools and commercial premises.

Metal railings, while still offering a level of security, are more often used for demarcation and appearance. They define boundaries, enhance aesthetics, and provide a welcoming feel, which makes them particularly popular in residential settings, parks, and community spaces. They are often installed at lower heights.

This distinction sets the stage for understanding why Jacksons offers two versions of Barbican Imperial^®: one tailored for security applications, and one adapted for residential environments.

Barbican Imperial Vertical Bar Railings

Barbican Imperial^® vertical bar railings are the heavy duty option of the two. They are designed to deliver strong perimeter protection while maintaining a clean, unobtrusive appearance.

Heights: Available in a wide range from 1m up to 3m, making them suitable for everything from modest boundaries to secure perimeters.

Pale pitch and size:

- Up to 2m high: 124mm pale pitch with 25mm round pales

- Above 2.1m: 129mm pale pitch with 32mm round pales

Rails: 60 x 40mm rectangular steel section

Finials: Pales are usually left plain, though finials can be added if desired.

Posts: Usually 80 x 60mm rectangular but assessed to suit the site

Applications: Ideal for schools, utilities, and commercial sites where security is a priority but aesthetics still matter.

The larger pale diameters and taller height options make Barbican Imperial vertical bar railings a formidable barrier, while still offering the sleek tubular design Jacksons is known for.

Barbican Imperial Residential Metal Railings

By contrast, Barbican Imperial^® Residential railings are designed with homeowners and community spaces in mind. They balance security with a softer, more decorative appearance.

Heights: Available in 1m and 1.25m, which are more appropriate for gardens, driveways, and residential boundaries.

Pale pitch and size: 119mm pale pitch with 19mm round pales, giving a lighter, less imposing look.

Rails: 50 x 25mm rectangular steel section

Finials: Frequently customised with decorative finials, adding character and enhancing kerb appeal.

Posts: Usually 60 x 60mm square but assessed to suit the site

Applications: Perfect for residential properties, housing developments, and public spaces where demarcation and aesthetics are more important than security.

The slimmer pales and shorter heights make these railings less intimidating, while still providing a durable and attractive boundary solution.

Similarities Between Railings

Despite their differences, both Barbican Imperial ranges share Jacksons’ hallmark of quality and durability:

Welded pale‑through‑rail construction: No visible bolts or fixings, ensuring strength and a seamless finish.

Concealed panel‑to‑post connectors: Enhances aesthetics and prevents tampering.

Round, tubular pales: Strong, lightweight, and visually appealing.

Galvanised steel: Provides long‑term protection against rust and corrosion.

Polyester powder coating: Optional architectural‑grade finish for colour and extra durability.

These shared features mean that whether you choose the vertical bar railing or metal railing version, you’re investing in a product designed to last decades with minimal maintenance.

Key Differences Summarised

Although both products share Jacksons’ hallmark quality, the distinctions between them are straightforward once you look at the details:

Height options: Barbican Imperial vertical bar railings are available from 1m up to 3m, while Barbican Imperial Residential railings are limited to 1m and 1.25m.

Pale pitch and size: The residential version has a 119mm pale pitch with 19mm round pales. The vertical bar version uses a 124mm pitch with 25mm pales up to 2m high, and a 129mm pitch with 32mm pales for anything above 2.1m.

Rail size: Barbican Imperial has substantial 60 x 40mm rails, while Barbican Imperial Residential has smaller 50 x 25mm rails.

Finials: Residential railings are often customised with decorative finials, whereas vertical bar railings are usually left plain, though finials can be added if desired.

Posts: Residential versions generally use 60 x 60mm square posts while the vertical bar system uses larger 80 x 60mm rectangular posts for heights over 1.5m, but both are assessed to suit site conditions such as wind loading.

Primary use: Vertical bar railings are security‑focused, suited to schools and commercial sites. Residential railings are designed for demarcation and aesthetics, making them ideal for gardens, housing developments, and public spaces.

Choosing Between the Two

The choice between Barbican Imperial and Barbican Imperial Residential depends on your priorities.

If security is paramount, such as protecting a school, utility site, or commercial premises, Barbican Imperial vertical bar railings are the right choice. Their taller heights and thicker pales provide a strong deterrent. If appearance and boundary definition are more important—such as in gardens, housing developments, or community spaces—Barbican Imperial Residential offers a lighter, more decorative solution. In both cases, you benefit from Jacksons’ commitment to quality, longevity, and design integrity.

Vertical Bar Railings vs. Metal Railings: General Differences

Zooming out from the Barbican Imperial range, the broader difference between vertical bar railings and metal railings is worth noting.

Vertical bar railings prioritise security, are taller and more robust, and are common in schools, commercial sites, and security‑focused applications. Metal railings prioritise aesthetics and demarcation, are shorter in height and lighter in design, and are common in residential and public spaces.

This distinction explains why Jacksons offers both versions of Barbican Imperial; each is tailored to the needs of different environments.

While the names may be confusing, the differences between Barbican Imperial vertical bar railings and Barbican Imperial Residential railings are clear once you look at their specifications and intended uses. One is built for robust security, the other for residential charm and boundary definition. Both, however, embody Jacksons’ dedication to quality, durability, and design excellence.

By understanding these differences, specifiers, contractors, and homeowners can make informed decisions that balance safety, aesthetics, and functionality, ensuring the right railing is chosen for the right setting. If you require a quote for either product or want to know more, contact our experienced team.