Looking for an effective way to control a crowd or organise a busy queue? Perhaps you need to create a visual barrier that guides people in the right direction? Or would like to mark out the boundaries of a designated area, such as a VIP lounge?
For all of these scenarios, you have two main options to choose from:
- Retractable belt barriers
- Barrier ropes
There’s no denying that retractable belt barriers do have their advantages. For example, they’re incredibly practical. Not only are they easy to reposition, the length of the belt itself can also be quickly and effortlessly changed to suit the current demands. Therefore making them a popular option for busy settings such as airports, banks and public spaces.
However, they have a few disadvantages too. And in our opinion, if you need to create a barrier – whether that be in retail, leisure, events and entertainment or even just your home – nine times out of ten, you just can’t beat using high-quality barrier ropes. Here’s why.
5 advantages of barrier ropes
1. Luxuriant look and feel
Want to make a good impression? Create a professional, luxury aesthetic?
Barrier ropes certainly got the memo.
Typically made with a three-strand twisted construction, they boast an attractive ‘traditional rope’ appearance, and are perfect for creating a high-end and elegant look. This is particularly true for polysilk barrier ropes, which are made from soft multifilament polypropylene fibres.
They can also be easily paired with high-quality brass fittings, and installed with matching stanchions to create a stylish, luxuriant finish for your event or occasion.
2. Choice of styles and colours
Whatever the theme or aesthetic of your event, there’s a barrier rope to match.
From bright eye-catching designs to rustic natural looks, they often come in a diverse range of colours and textures. Meaning, it’s easy to coordinate with the décor of the venue, remain in sync with the chosen aesthetic and select one that suits the specific occasion best.
You can also usually choose from a variety of post styles. So there’s no need to compromise and, for example, spoil the look of your contemporary event with traditional stanchions.
3. Convenience
This is a big one.
One of the main advantages of barrier ropes is they’re incredibly easy to set up and take down.
In most cases, they come heat-sealed at both ends as standard. This means they can be easily combined with brass fittings, then quickly and effortlessly clipped into place (onto a stanchion or wall bracket) – creating a quick, simple barrier wherever necessary.
Most barrier ropes are also made from surprisingly lightweight fibres. As such, they’re very easy to move and can be quickly reconfigured depending on your changing needs.
4. Durability
Barrier ropes are made to last. Whether you opt for polysilk, synthetic hemp or a natural variety (such as jute or manila), they all have one key thing in common – they’re durable.
Fully weather-resistant, most barrier ropes demonstrate excellent resistance to UV and abrasion and are typically impervious to water (i.e. they don’t shrink, swell or stretch when they get wet) – making them a suitable option for both prolonged indoor and outdoor use.
Despite being exposed to the rigours of queues and crowds, they hold up well in the face of day-to-day wear and tear – successfully maintaining their soft-to-touch, luxurious finish.
5. Budget-friendly ropes
However much you’re looking to spend, there’s a barrier rope to suit.
For large-scale events with a large-scale budget, premium options – primarily, polysilk barrier ropes – are available. And these will certainly look the part for an exclusive or high-end event.
But they’re by no means the only option.
Natural ropes can be just as aesthetically pleasing – and, in some cases, may be better suited to the event theme or aesthetic. And these tend to be available for a much more affordable price.
For those on a particularly limited budget, coloured polypropylene ropes can also be a much more economical alternative. Often available for as little as £1-2 per metre, these offer exceptional value for money – yet still create a stylish, eye-catching look and are strong and durable.
Invest in barrier ropes today
When choosing between barrier ropes or retractable belt barriers, of course, there are many factors you’ll need to consider – including the type of event it’s intended for, your specific ‘crown control’ needs and the location of the event itself. And if practicality is the most important aspect (e.g. in an airport setting), you may be better off investing in a retractable belt.
But in most cases, barrier ropes are likely to be the superior option.
As mentioned throughout this blog, there are various options to choose from – including polysilk, synthetic hemp and natural ropes (e.g. jute and manila). Even some polysteel ropes, such as tiger rope, can be suitable – especially if high visibility and hardiness are a priority.
All of these provide the perfect combination of style, durability and convenience. And are available to buy for a fantastic price at RopesDirect – a leading online supplier with thousands of happy customers. So why not head over to their website and browse their full range?
If you’re unsure which barrier ropes might be right for your requirements, they even have a ‘Help Choosing Rope’ page with lots of additional information that may be able to help. Plus an informative blog, with tips on how to select the ideal barrier rope for your event.