Commercial and residential properties need security, and one of the main security needs for any property is a gate at every entrance/exit. This is not necessarily to keep people in or people out, but it is to at the very least know who is coming and going, so you can evaluate safety. Security gates come in multiple materials with automated settings and different types of openings. Here is a list of the types of security gates available to meet your perimeter needs.
9 Types of Security Gates for your Perimeter Needs
Folding:
Also called bi-folding gates, folding gates are either single or dual-sided expandable doors. When contracted, they can be swung via a hinge up against the wall, so they take up the least amount of space. The primary advantage of folding gates is that they are space savers, but they are also a very quick options for locking and securing an opening.
Swing:
Swing:Gates that swing from one side or the other take up quite a bit of room, but they are often very attractive gates with a lot of sound structure. These gates may or may not have rollers to keep the unsupported end of the gate off the ground. Although they are beautiful, swing gates take a lot of time to completely open or close, and they take up a lot of room.
Dual Swing:
If you are short on space but want a swing gate, a dual swing gate may be a better option because it cuts the space needed to open in half. This is especially helpful if the gate is near a roadway where cars may need to get close to the gate in order to avoid traffic. They are often a bit quicker than single-swing gates because they have less of a distance to travel.
Vertical Lift:
Vertical lift gates are typically used for commercial purposes, but they make a formidable residential gate as well. The advantage of this gate is that they don’t require any horizontal space and only require vertical space for lifting. If the gate rolls, the space needed is very minimal. Vertical lift gates are typically statement pieces on residential properties, as the columns are daunting reminders of the security of the place. However, they can be very small and functional too.
Vertical Swing Lift:
If you want a swing gate but don’t have much room, you can get a vertical swing lift gate. This is a single gate that is lifted onto its side instead of swinging outward. This saves space for storing the gate but requires a lot of space above the gate to lift it in that way.
Rolling Slide:
A rolling slide gate is like the sliding glass door of perimeter security gates. It opens alongside the fencing of the gate along a groove similar to a sliding glass door. The gate is typically on rollers, and this is a very common security gate for institutions but can also be an inexpensive option for homeowners.
Cantilever Slide:
A cantilever slide is similar to a rolling slide, but it slides on a cantilever, or a suspended arm. This is especially helpful when the ground is not the right texture for wheels or rollers. Cantilever slide gates make it easy to have a sliding gate.
Pedestrian:
Pedestrian:When you are considering security gates on any property, don’t forget about walking paths. Security gates will deter those who would otherwise enter even if there is no fencing. Fencing is more secure, but a pedestrian security gate will keep people out adequately if your goal is just to reduce foot traffic. An added note: pedestrians should not be using gates meant for vehicles. If you have pedestrian traffic, get a pedestrian gate. They aren’t just for walking paths.
Barrier Arms:
The last type of security gate covered here is a barrier arm, which is a very simple, bare bones form of security gate. You see these in parking garages, for example. This is not a very secure type of security gate if you are trying to keep people out, as people and bicycles can easily get by the arm. If it is a crash barrier, then it should stop a vehicle, but it’s not much of a barrier for anything else.
Your Security Gate Must Fit Your Needs
There are many factors to consider when choosing a perimeter security gate. The type of gate is only the beginning. Once you decide on the type of gate you are going to get, you need to make sure you can open and close it with ease. This may involve aluminum versus steel construction, or it may involve a motorized unit. Motorized units may also require a licensed electrician to get electricity to the outdoors. To get more information about security gates, contact your local contractor or electrician and get the info you need to add security to your property.