When designing a perimeter security system, a common question arises: is it enough to protect the site from climbing over the fence, or should tunneling attempts also be considered? This is especially relevant for warehouses, restricted areas, country plots, and any sites located where a physical underground breach is possible. In such cases, it is logical to ask: can Egoza be buried in the ground, and if so – how effective will it be beneath the surface?
The answer is yes, it can. Moreover, when properly installed, reinforced razor wire can indeed prevent tunneling attempts, especially near fences, gates, and technical zones. However, this type of installation requires a special approach – both in choosing the type of barrier and in how it is laid out.
Why Subsurface Protection Is Needed
Even if the perimeter is reinforced with Egoza concertina wire and other means, it remains vulnerable at ground level – where tunneling is possible. An intruder may act silently, under cover of darkness, using digging tools and concealment. Such scenarios are especially considered when protecting warehouses with valuable assets, transformer stations, car dealership plots, and remote private homes with delayed alarm response.
Even partially buried Egoza can serve as a deterrent barrier: sudden contact with the blades beneath the soil leads to injury and usually forces the intruder to stop digging. But for this method to be effective, the structure must be laid in accordance with technical guidelines.
What Types of Egoza Can Be Used Underground
For subsurface installation, the most suitable options are the flat barrier or razor mesh. These adapt well to flat shapes, allow the tape to be laid at a depth of 10–30 cm, and create a continuous zone of obstruction along the perimeter. Such constructions are secured with metal staples, rebar, or stakes to prevent shifting after backfilling.
Sometimes concertina wire is used as well, particularly with a diameter of 400 mm – but in this case, the coils are partially compressed so that the structure remains below ground level. This method is less convenient to install but provides greater elasticity and therefore better resists tearing during tunneling attempts.
How to Properly Install Egoza in the Ground
Before installation, it is recommended to dig a trench at least 20 cm deep along the fence line or movable barrier. The barrier is laid on the bottom in a stretched position and fixed. The structure can then be partially covered with soil or topped with a decorative layer – gravel, sand, paving, or crushed stone. This approach protects the wire from corrosion while keeping it hidden from view.
Important: it is not advisable to completely bury Egoza. Without contact with air, it may corrode more rapidly in high-humidity conditions. In addition, full burial reduces the deterrent effect, as the blades won’t cause immediate injury on contact. Partial embedding with minimal coverage is a more effective solution.
When Subsurface Installation Is Justified
Subsurface installation is relevant in the following situations:
- If tunneling incidents have occurred at similar sites;
- When the soil is loose and easy to excavate;
- Near gates, access points, and corners – areas that are harder to monitor;
- When installing pyramid barriers without a foundation – they can be anchored below using Egoza tape, partially buried and welded to rebar.
Buried barriers are also useful in locations where tall fences are not allowed, but boundary lines need to be marked or protected – for example, in border zones or temporary perimeter areas.
Alternative: Ground-Level Fixation Without Digging
If excavation is not feasible, a similar effect can be achieved by fixing the flat barrier directly to the ground using reinforcing bars or steel angles welded to posts. This creates a line that cannot be crawled under or tunneled beneath without contact with the wire. This method is faster and easier, though less discreet.
For mobile solutions that are frequently relocated, Egoza can be laid on the ground and partially covered with sand or gravel. This adds weight and makes it more difficult to remove the barrier from outside.
Egoza Can Be Partially Buried – and It Works as Tunneling Protection
Yes, Egoza can be partially buried – and it truly works as protection against tunneling. The key is to choose suitable types of barriers, ensure reliable fixation, and avoid full burial. A combination of visible and hidden protection provides maximum deterrence and makes the perimeter truly impenetrable.
Learn more about installation methods and nonstandard solutions in the Installation section.