There’s more to installing automatic commercial gates than many business owners realize. Careless gate installation or improper maintenance can lead to accidents and even civil liabilities for businesses.
If you’re thinking of installing automatic security gates for your place of business, there are several things you need to consider first. This article will help walk you through some of the essential things you need before installing automatic gates.
Why Are You Getting A Gate?
It is vital that you first consider what your gate’s purpose will be. Will the commercial gate you’re getting be for added security and privacy or simply for added aesthetics?
If safety is your goal, then you should look into access control measures. If it’s the aesthetics you’re after, you can focus on what type of material would suit your property. Having a clear purpose will make you choose the right automatic gate for your needs.
It’s also important to consider how much foot traffic the gate will be exposed to. Will the gate be closed for most of the week, or will employees and customers require constant access? Knowing the answer to these questions will help you choose the suitable gate motor and access system.
What Type Of Gate You Should Get
Once you have figured out the purpose, it’s time to choose the type of automatic gate system to install. There are different types to choose from, but these three are usually the top picks for commercial spaces:
Swing Gate:
This gate is designed to be hinged on one side and swing open like a large door. Swing gates generally have a 90-degree arc and can open inward or outward. Swing gates are commonly used in residential properties but are also popular among business owners as a low-cost alternative.
Bi-Folding Gate:
This type of gate is made from two panels hinged together. The panels fold back onto themselves when they are activated. Bi-folding gates are used in pairs, with one installed on each gate opening. Bi-folding gates are perfect for properties with limited space and places that require fast opening and closing speeds.
Cantilever Sliding Gate:
This type of gate is suspended above the ground and relies on a counterbalance mechanism to open. Cantilever sliding gates are heavy-duty and weather-resistant. This type of gate is perfect for properties with limited space or requiring high-security entrances.
Having The Right Space
The space of your property almost always dictates the type of automatic door you need to install. Some varieties, like the swinging gate, depend on space to operate, so you need to consider the space you have.
Take precise measurements of your intended gate spaces and note any possible obstacles around them, like walls and trees. By having this information, you can determine the type and size of the automatic gate you should get.
Choose Your Means Of Access
It’s also essential that you consider how people will be accessing your gate. Your choice here will largely depend on how often the gate will be used and how secure you want it to be. There are a lot of sophisticated access control measures available. Here are some of the popular ones:
Keycard:
This allows access using unique electronic cards that can be tapped, inserted, or scanned.
Smart Key:
This is an electronic key used to open automatic gates. It works similarly to a standard key, but the locking mechanism is done digitally. You can either insert the smart key in an electronic keyhole or tap on a scanner.
Phone/App Entry:
This option allows you to open or close your gate using a dedicated app. It will enable users to lock or unlock the gate through the internet, even if they are currently in another city.
Fingerprint Reader:
This type of access allows entry by having your fingerprints scanned. All recorded fingerprints will be granted access, while others will remain locked out. This option is excellent for those needing another layer of security.
Remote Control:
Most commonly used in garage doors, this device allows you to open or close the gates whenever you are within range. While it is not the most sophisticated option, it is the fastest and most efficient access control system.
The importance of automatic commercial gates to your place of business cannot be overstated. However, it’s also crucial for business owners to know exactly what type of gate their property needs and plan its installation. This will avoid unnecessary headaches or costly changes in the future.
4 Sure Gates is an experienced gate repair and installation company offering different gate designs and systems. If you’re looking for the right gate system for your business, contact us today to get a free estimate and a chance to talk to our experts regarding your project.