Protecting EV Installations: Curbs or Bollards or Wall Guards?

How to decide?

When it comes to protecting EV charging stations, choosing the right barrier is essential for ensuring safety, efficiency, and a clean aesthetic. The most common options include bollards, curbs, and wall guards—each with its own advantages and drawbacks.

Bollards are frequently used for EV protection, but they can be costly and time-consuming to install. They require coring into the concrete floor, often necessitating specialized equipment and pre-installation ground scans, especially in multi-level parking garages—adding both time and expense. This process involves X-ray inspections to avoid utilities and reinforcement, which add to project timelines and increase labour costs. Once installed, bollards are durable and visible, providing good protection; however, their ground-level placement makes them able to be pushed over with enough force and cleaning around them difficult.

Curbs are an inexpensive option that offers minimal protection. Vehicles can easily drive over them, reducing their effectiveness against accidental collisions. Additionally, debris tends to get trapped between the curb and the wall, creating cleaning challenges and contributing to ongoing maintenance issues. Their low profile means they are more suitable for low-risk areas or temporary setups rather than high-traffic or high-impact zones.

Wall guards stand out as the most effective and aesthetically pleasing solution. Mounted directly onto walls, they provide robust protection for wall-mounted chargers without protruding onto walkways or parking areas. Their attachment to the wall means they’re easier and faster to install compared to bollards, especially since they don’t require invasive ground work or additional structural modifications. Maintaining wall guards is also simpler—since they’re off the ground, cleaning underneath is easier which helps to prevent dirt and debris buildup. Additionally, their sleek and modern appearance enhances the overall look of parking facilities, making them an attractive option for projects prioritizing both form and function.

Ultimately, we feel wall guards offer the best combination of durability, ease of installation, and visual appeal for protecting EV chargers. They deliver reliable vehicle impact protection while simplifying maintenance. At Wattz Up, we design high-quality, versatile wall-mounted systems, including our durable steel wall guards, to meet the needs of contractors seeking quick, effective, and professional protection solutions.