Wedge Barriers Explained: The Ultimate High-Security Vehicle Solution

When vehicle-based threats are a serious concern, few solutions provide the level of protection that wedge barriers do. Designed to stop heavy vehicles traveling at high speeds, wedge barriers are a staple of military bases, embassies, airports, and critical infrastructure sites.

This guide explains what wedge barriers are, their typical costs, and the benefits they bring to high-security environments.

What Are Wedge Barriers?

Definition

A wedge barrier is a heavy-duty, ground-mounted security device that rises from the roadway at an angle, forming a wedge-shaped obstacle that vehicles cannot pass.

Key Features

• High-strength steel construction

• Crash-rated for maximum impact resistance

• Operated hydraulically or electro-mechanically

Cost of Wedge Barriers in 2025

Standard Crash-Rated Models

• $15,000 – $20,000 per lane

Heavy-Duty Military-Grade Models

• $25,000 – $30,000+ per lane

Installation Costs

• $10,000 – $20,000, depending on excavation, foundations, and control system integration

Benefits of Wedge Barriers

Maximum Stopping Power

Capable of halting trucks and other heavy vehicles traveling at speeds up to 50 mph or more.

Rapid Deployment

Can rise from flush to fully upright in a matter of seconds.

Integration Options

Work seamlessly with access control, CCTV, and security systems.

Long-Term Durability

Built to withstand extreme weather and continuous heavy use.

Where Wedge Barriers Are Used

Government & Military Bases

Protect against hostile vehicle attacks.

Airports & Seaports

Secure cargo, terminal, and runway access points.

Critical Infrastructure

Power plants, refineries, and data centers rely on wedge barriers for vehicle access control.

Corporate High-Security Campuses

Used where sensitive data or valuable assets require maximum perimeter protection.

FAQ: Wedge Barriers

How fast do wedge barriers deploy?

Most models rise fully within 2–5 seconds.

Are wedge barriers always crash-rated?

Yes, they are specifically designed for high-security applications and certified under standards such as ASTM or IWA.

Can pedestrians or cyclists use the same lane?

No, wedge barriers are strictly for vehicle control and should be paired with separate pedestrian access points.

Why Choose TurnIQ?

TurnIQ provides crash-rated wedge barriers designed for the toughest environments. From consultation and site planning to installation and integration, we deliver turnkey vehicle security solutions that meet international standards.

Looking for wedge barrier solutions? Contact TurnIQ to discuss your site’s security needs.

Conclusion

Wedge barriers represent the highest level of vehicle access control available today. While they require significant investment, their ability to stop heavy vehicles in seconds makes them an essential safeguard for high-security environments.