We are seeing a notably increased demand for our anti climb paint so in this latest post we’d like to highlight why this effective anti climb defence is so popular.
What is Anti Climb Paint?
Anti climb paint is a non-drying, petroleum gel based paint that’s applied in a relatively thick layer that never sets. It remains slippery after application making it impossible to grip or gain a foothold on any surface where its applied.
Its also widely known as anti-burglar paint, anti-vandal paint, non-drying paint or security paint. Not only does it protect surfaces from climbers but it also marks the clothing and hands of anyone who comes into contact with it.
Where is Anti Climb Paint Used?
We are seeing anti climb paint being used in an increasing number of locations where anti-climb and anti-intruder defence has become a priority.
Churches and public buildings, for example, are increasingly troubled by thieves who attempt to steal their valuable roofing materials. These buildings are often unstaffed and many are in locations that are not overlooked by near neighbours. Brazen criminals will sometimes take advantage of these situations but considerately deployed anti-climb paint is preventing them from accessing rooftops.
Poles, posts and support structures on which valuable lighting, camera equipment and solar panels are mounted are also being beneficially protected with anti climb paint. Criminals know they can often resell these valuable pieces of equipment and vandals will sometimes target these structures just for the thrill of it. Painting these support structures with anti-climb paint is providing valuable protection.
Schools are often troubled by out-of-hours intruders and sometimes burglars attempting to access valuable school equipment. We are seeing an increased number of schools using anti-climb paint to prevent climbers from access flat rooftops and upper storey windows.
Building sites often need protection against criminals who want to steal their equipment and materials as well as fools who simply want to climb scaffolding. Anti climb paint is being used as a quick way to prevent would-be climbers from gaining entry and possibly harming themselves by climbing scaffolding.
Commercial premises are increasingly being targeted by criminals as the cost of living crisis is driving a demand for low cost groceries and other consumables. Supermarket yards can be a favoured target where thieves know they will find an abundance of produce they can quickly sell on the black market. Anti climb paint is being used to protect these areas against intruders.
What is the Law Regarding Anti Climb Paint?
UK police forces recommend the use of anti climb paint. It is perfectly legal to use but there are some important considerations and precautions that need to be met. It is recommended that anti climb paint isn’t used on surfaces where people might normally come into contact with it. For example, on an exterior wall surface. The recommendation is that anti climb paint should only be applied above a height of around 2.1m (7 feet) which should avoid the possibility of someone inadvertently coming into contact with it.
Another important requirement is the need for warning signs. The Occupier’s liability act 1984 makes it clear that householders and property owners have a duty of care to anyone on their property, including intruders. It must always be ensured that anyone on the property is adequately protected from foreseeable hazards - such as coming into contact with anti-climb paint.
Is Anti Climb Paint Easy to Use?
Unlike normal paints, anti climb paint is particularly thick. It needs to be applied in a coat of around 2 to 3 mm in thickness to be effective. This is best achieved using a suitable paint brush and using a disposable, old brush is recommended. Its always a good idea to wear old clothes and gloves when applying anti climb paint as the petroleum gel based formulation will stick. And anti climb paint is water proof so a solvent may be needed to remove it from skin.
Its worth remembering that you’ll need around 2.5 litres of anti climb paint to cover an area of 1 square metre, due to the thick application.
Where Can I get Appropriate Anti Climb Paint Warning Signs?
If you take a look in our store you will not only find our Anti Climb Paint in tins from 1 litre all the way up to 20 litres but you can also find our anti climb paint warning signs.