Surface Mount Traffic Spikes Explained for Safer One-Way Control
Surface Mount Traffic Spikes are one-way traffic control devices bolted on top of concrete. They stop wrong-way or unauthorized vehicle entry while letting approved traffic pass from the correct side. Think of them as a gate with teeth. You'll often see them in parking lots, gated entries, garages, airports, and secure facilities where traffic direction and site security both matter.
One way traffic spikes systems are very affordable and work great at arenas, state parks, schools, and other areas where you need one-way traffic control without the need for a manned area (no need for extra personnel). We offer both in-ground and on-ground systems. One-way or another, you can improve your security with our one-way systems.
How Surface Mount Traffic Spikes work in real-world traffic control
At a basic level, Surface Mount Traffic Spikes use a steel base, raised spikes, and heavy anchors that fasten the unit to the road surface. Many models sit a few inches high, so drivers can see them before reaching the lane.
From the allowed direction, tires roll over the angled spikes and push them down. The vehicle passes with little trouble, usually at very low speed. From the wrong direction, the tire meets the sharp end first. That contact can puncture the tire and stop the vehicle from continuing.
Because of that simple design, these systems work well at one-way exits and controlled access points.
Why Surface Mount Traffic Spikes are easy to see and hard to ignore
Surface Mount Traffic Spikes stand above the pavement, so they catch a driver's eye early. Many units use bright yellow paint, reflective markings, or both. Some sites also add warning signs or pavement markings before the spikes.
That visible profile does more than mark the lane. It sends a clear message: this is not a normal drive path. In many cases, the strong visual warning stops bad moves before the spikes ever touch a tire.
Where Surface Mount Traffic Spikes make the most sense
Surface Mount Traffic Spikes fit places where traffic must move one way and space is easy to control. Good examples include parking facility exits, apartment or HOA entrances, corporate sites, schools, event venues, and service roads inside secure properties.
They also make sense where digging into pavement isn't practical. For example, some sites have utilities below the slab, older concrete, or a tight project timeline. In those cases, a surface-mounted unit can solve the access problem without major site work.
Buyers often choose them when they want visible control, fast setup, and the option to rework the lane later.
When Surface Mount Traffic Spikes are a better choice than in-ground systems
The biggest difference is installation. Surface Mount Traffic Spikes bolt onto concrete, so crews don't need excavation or trenching. That usually means faster setup and lower install cost.
They're also easier to move if the lane layout changes. In-ground systems often look cleaner and sit lower, which suits some permanent sites. Still, surface-mount models win when speed, flexibility, and lower upfront work matter most.
What to know before installing Surface Mount Traffic Spikes
Start with a flat concrete surface. The unit needs solid anchoring, a straight approach, and clear sight lines. It should not sit on a blind curve, steep slope, or high-speed lane. Most sites pair the spikes with low-speed traffic flow, often around 5 mph.
Warning signs matter, too. Drivers need time to slow down and read the lane correctly before they reach the device.
Safety features and maintenance that help Surface Mount Traffic Spikes perform well
Many sites add speed bumps, lights, and advance warning signs before the spikes. Some powered systems also lower in a power loss, which helps prevent accidental tire damage.
Routine checks keep the system working well. Look at bolts, visibility paint, debris buildup, and wear from traffic and weather. Since the unit sits above the surface, those inspections are simple and quick.
Surface Mount Traffic Spikes are a practical pick for one-way traffic control and site security, especially when quick installation and strong visibility matter. The best choice depends on traffic volume, vehicle type, and site layout. Match the system to the lane, and it will do its job clearly and consistently.
Call Today!! 800-988-3308
TireShark™ Model 2500 - Surface Mount Traffic Spikes
TireShark™ Model 2500 can handle 80,000 pounds per axle maximum, at 5 mph. Ultra-low Deck Height & Strength make it great for residential and garage security. Save cost and easily install with these surface mounted traffic spikes. No digging, no mess, and no wait! Use these traffic spikes for apartment complexes, HOA communities, and garage complexes! LEARN MORE about TireShark™ Model 2500
TireShark™ Model 3750 - Surface Mount Traffic Spikes
TireShark™ Model 3750 can handle cars up to 90,000 lbs per axle (5 mph), even full semi trucks. Great for corporate security because it’s 3/8″ plate steel. Use these traffic spikes for corporate offices / headquarters, airports, and car rentals. Google HQ has used TireShark™ to secure their corporate offices. They were happy with the quality of TireShark™ because they have constant heavy traffic.
TireShark™ Model 5000 - Surface Mount Traffic Spikes
TireShark™ Model 5000 is the world’s strongest Traffic Spike system (maximum 150,000 lbs per axle). 1/2 inch plate steel. Made in USA. Hot rolled steel, non-welded deck. Laser cut parts, formed using computerized brakes. TireShark™ Model 5000 SpikeZilla™ is great for military grade security. Use these heavy duty traffic spikes for military and government offices and facilities. You can purchase these traffic spikes for military or government through Wrigglesworth Enterprises, a GSA Contract Holder.
Call Today!! 800-988-3308
TireShark™ Specification Sheet
All One Way Traffic Spike bearing surfaces are powder coated and easy to replace, eliminating the need to replace the entire spike system due to wear or abuse.
Included, free of charge, is the super-simple one way traffic spike latch down mechanism. This allows you to effectively lock the spikes in a downward position on days when you need 2 way travel such as move-in/out.