How to Choose the Right Security Gates for Your Commercial Property

new Commercial Gates for your property

In the US, a burglary occurs every 22.6 seconds. For businesses, a break-in can result in serious property damage, loss of valuable merchandise, and costly downtime.

One of the best ways to protect your commercial facility is to install a heavy-duty security gate. Having outdated, broken, or a complete lack of gates makes your facility an easy target for burglars, vandals, trespassers, and other intruders.

Here are several factors to consider when shopping for the right security gate:

Mode of Operation: Manual vs. Automated

Manual gates are often more affordable and easier to maintain than electric systems. They also don’t rely on power, meaning you don’t have to worry about access when electricity is out.

Because someone always has to be present to operate the gate, manual gates can be slow and labor-intensive.

Electric security gates are designed for convenience. This is why they’re perfect for facilities with high volumes of people or vehicles entering and exiting at all hours of the day.

Electric gates are operated using a press of a button, a remote control, or a computer command. They help save time, reduce staffing requirements, and boost productivity.

They can, however, cost more than manual systems. You’ll also have to comply with the manufacturer’s maintenance guidelines.

Design and Configuration

Aside from deciding between a manual and automatic system, it’s also wise to consider the different designs and configurations available. Each type offers unique applications and advantages.

  • Sliding Gates – Commonly used on driveways, this type of gate has rollers at the bottom to facilitate sliding.
  • Swinging Gates – These open by swinging to the left or right, and they are attached to the wall using hinges.
  • Scissor Gates – These are folded to allow entry and stretched to provide a lockable barrier. Scissor gates are perfect for situations where compact and secure access is a priority, but visibility and ventilation are necessary.
  • Vertical Lift Gates – These are widely used in storefront doors and warehouse entry points. The gate slides up to allow access and rolls back down to close.

Access Mechanism

Access mechanisms have become sophisticated over the years. You can choose from:

  • Key Cards – They are swiped to gain access to the gate. These are often used in automated parking lots.
  • Biometric Security Systems –  Facial recognition and fingerprint scanners are used to identify people quickly and allow access. These are ideal for the high-security areas of a commercial facility.
  • Phone Entry And Remote Control – This option allows entry using a smartphone or a special remote control.

Commercial Gates Power Source

If you decide to go with an automated gate, you’ll have to pick a source of power. Of course, you can always rely on electricity that powers the rest of your property. But if you want a cheaper and more environmentally friendly power source, then you should consider solar power.

Safeguard Your Property with High Quality Commercial Gates

4 Sure Gates does all types of commercial gate installation projects. We install sliding and swing gates that help heighten security and increase the curb appeal of your property. Our team is available around the clock, and we’ll be happy to help you choose the right gate type and design for your facility.

Contact Us for a Free Estimate

How to Measure for a Driveway Gate

New professional Driveway Gate in Dallas Texas

If you haven’t thought about installing a driveway gate, you should consider doing so for security benefits and numerous other reasons. Having a driveway gate is one of the top 10 best ways to deter thieves and burglaries. While it won’t completely deter all thieves, having a good driveway gate is an excellent step towards securing your property.

4 Sure Gates has years of experience creating and installing driveway gates for many clients across Texas. One of the first things that any homeowner should do if they’re getting a driveway gate installed is to make the proper measurements. A driveway gate is an excellent method of improving security, but only if it’s correctly fitted to the driveway or the necessary gap in the fence.

Here are the key steps to measuring your driveway for gate installation.

Look At Your Driveway Size

Some of the most common gate sizes in the US are 10, 12, 14, and 16 feet. Your driveway itself should measure roughly between 9-24 feet. Often, many properties are at the lower end of this scale, with just enough room to accommodate a vehicle coming through. Measure the length of your driveway with a long tape measure to find out what size your property has.

Considering this measurement, the gate you choose should be slightly wider than the entrance itself. For example, a driveway that measures roughly nine feet across will need a ten-foot gate. If the gate is closer to ten feet, opt for the 12-foot gate.

Consider The Vehicle You Drive

The gate’s size also depends on the vehicles passing through. Do you drive an SUV, truck, or car? A smaller gate won’t be an issue if you drive a car. But larger vehicles and recreational vehicles like RVs need more space to turn, thus needing a wider gate. They may be unable to pull in properly if the gate is too small.

However, having too wide a gate will not suit some homes and properties. This is because the larger the gate, the more costly it is. Furthermore, as the gate size goes up, so do maintenance costs. You have to keep it rust-free, well-oiled, and in the case of mechanical gates, the motor needs to be kept dry and in good condition.

Double vs Single Driveway Gate

While the gate’s width is usually straightforward, deciding whether you’d prefer a double or single gate can be a bit more difficult. First, consider which direction you want your gate to swing. Remember that your vehicle must have enough room to pass, but there must also be ample room for the gate to swing in the direction of choice. With a double gate, both sides of the driveway must have the space for the swing.

Let’s say you have a driveway that fits a 12-foot gate. You could select a gate with a single outward swing, which means you need enough space for a 90-degree arc at the very least. You don’t want the gate to go too far out into the road, as it might obstruct pedestrians and other cars. Make sure you measure enough space that the gate does not swing out into the road.

Consult With Professionals On Your Driveway Gate

If you’re still unsure about your gate’s correct size and position, you should always contact professionals. Their expertise will help you properly assess and measure the right size of driveway gate for you.

4 Sure Gates has years of experience measuring and installing driveway gates of all sizes and types. Our technicians can provide you with accurate assessments and even a detailed installation plan to take on all the effort of putting your driveway gate together.

Contact us today to get a consultation and just relax as your gate gets installed.

What To Consider Before Installing An Automatic Commercial Gate

New Automatic Commercial Gate in Dallas Texas

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.

Five Reasons Your Business Needs a Proper Gate System

new Commercial Gate System at a business in Dallas

Almost all commercial establishments have gates, but are they strong and secure enough to protect your business? With a greater focus on online security, many companies are taking their physical security for granted, investing in subpar gates that might not deliver the security they need.

4 Sure Gates advocates investing in a proper commercial gate — one that’s suited to the level of security you need and the traffic flow of people and vehicles that enter your premises. While it entails a higher upfront cost, a robust commercial gate will deliver more savings and more assurances of security.

Here are five reasons you should invest in a proper security gate system for your commercial property.

1. Heightened Security

In Texas, property crime is one of the crimes that people fear the most, and for a good reason; property crime accounts for 85% of all crimes reported by Texas law enforcement agents to the FBI. Larceny-theft is the most common, making up 72% of all incidents. Burglary, meanwhile, accounts for 16% of property crime.

These figures show that physical security should not be overlooked, and the threat of property crime is real.

Secure your perimeter with a commercial automatic gate system. Unlike manual gates with locks that can be picked or cut, automatic gates are more difficult to breach. In fact, the presence of an automatic gate alone may deter would-be burglars or vandals. Many property crimes, after all, are opportunistic in nature. And a strong commercial gate leaves only a tiny window of opportunity for criminals.

2. Better Access Control

Many commercial gates come with access control systems that help you manage the flow of people and restrict unauthorized entry. 

Physical security breaches could lead to a huge financial loss for the company. People usually gain unauthorized entry through tailgating (following someone with authorized access before the gate or door closes) and weak gates that they can easily break.

Perimeter security is your first line of defense against physical breaches. If you have a reliable gate access control system in place, you minimize the risk of unauthorized access.

3. Improved Privacy

Commercial security gates block out the view of outsiders, leaving you to conduct operations without any onlookers. Depending on their design, gates could either partially cover your premises or completely hide them from view.

Regardless of your industry or business, your property should have some level of privacy.

Even if you don’t work in a competitive field, it pays to protect your premises and employees from prying eyes.

4. Better Curb Appeal

Every business wants to project an image of trustworthiness and professionalism…but a flimsy fence won’t inspire confidence in investors and stakeholders. 

In contrast, a sturdy, imposing, commercial gate — whether it’s a rolling or swing gate — shows that you take the security of your employees and assets seriously.

Plus, a gate with the right design will enhance the appearance of your premises. And you have an abundance of choices when it comes to gate sizes, shapes, colors, and finishes.

5. Bigger Savings

Commercial gates save you resources. For instance, keypads and fingerprint recognition systems reduce the need for manpower. The same goes for vehicle recognition systems; no need to hire employees whose sole job is to allow cars entry. You have an efficient system to do that for you!

In addition, commercial security gate systems guard you against the potential losses from burglary and theft.

Any way you look at it, your business will greatly benefit from a proper commercial gate. If you want to explore gate options for your company, contact 4 Sure Gates. We’ll help you determine the commercial gate system that’s right for you!

Call us at (817) 965-7873 or leave us a message today!

Most Common Questions about Gates for Commercial Properties

According to the U.S Bureau of Justice Statistics on crime, the most common types of property crime committed across the country in 2019 were larceny or theft and burglary. And as a business proprietor, your building or property is especially enticing to criminals.

Thus, it would be in your best interest to ensure that your employees, resources, and infrastructure are safe from intruders. In this regard, installing gates along the perimeter of your property becomes your first line of defense.

But which type of gate is best for your purposes? Here 4 Sure Gates answers some of the most common questions business owners ask when they’re considering installing gates on their property.

1. What type of gate is best suited for my property?

The best way to figure out what type of gate you need for your property is to talk to a reputable gate installer in your area. They are the experts who can offer the most useful advice when it comes to your specific needs.

However, there are generally four things you need to consider when you sit down and talk with them. These are safety and security, aesthetics, level of privacy offered and type of gate wanted, e.g., automated or manually operated.

2. Should I get automatic gates or manually operated ones?

This would largely depend on the type of business that you run. Automatic gates work by having a transmitter in your vehicle that can open and close your gates with the push of a button. For commercial buildings in urban areas or retail shop owners, this means you save time in your day having to leave your car idling, getting out, and opening the gates yourself.

On the other hand, businesses like construction areas need extra security given the number of valuable items that are on display outside. Having someone guard your gates and opening them manually might be more suitable in this case.

3. What can I do to make my automatic gates last longer?

Keeping their moving parts cleaned and lubricated are the top things you can do to ensure that your automatic gates run smoothly and efficiently. These are things you can also do on your own. Some parts, however, like belts and chains might need adjustments every now and then. For these parts, we recommend seeking professional services at least once a year or for every 10,000 cycles.

4. How would I know how many cycles the gates have gone through?

It is important to know the open and close cycles your automatic gate goes through in a day since this would determine when your gates need maintenance. This is typically easy to measure for residential properties but commercial gates can vary depending on the type of business or property use. For this, we recommend installing a counter so you never miss out on scheduled maintenance.

5. What kind of material should the gates be made of?

Consider your location and the kind of business you run when you’re deciding on the best materials for your gate. Essentially, you want something that will not corrode easily. For this, you might want to consider aluminum, stainless steel, or even plastic or vinyl.

If aesthetics are your main concern, you can never go wrong with wooden gates or wrought-iron fences. Ultimately, the choice of material is best discussed with your gate installer so you can make a better-informed decision.

Reliable Commercial Gate Installers and Repair

Having the right commercial gate for your property will not only add security and privacy but also contribute to aesthetic appeal and property value. 4 Sure Gates can ensure you get the perfect gate for your commercial property.

Call us today at (817) 965-7873 to learn more about our commercial gate installation services.

Top 4 Advantages of Automatic Gates for Commercial Facilities

Security is a critical concern for commercial facilities. It’s essential to keep a close eye on everyone going in and out of your property. This way, you can quickly identify people doing suspicious activities. 

Businesses need to double their security measures to protect your staff and customers, prevent break-ins and burglaries, and safeguard your merchandise and cash.

Installing an electric gate on your commercial property can significantly improve your security. Available in a variety of styles, automatic gates not only protect your property, but they also make your exteriors look more appealing to visitors.

More businesses have invested in automatic gates for their following advantages:

1. Improved Security

Automatic gates are made from heavy-duty materials, making them more difficult to penetrate than manual models. Plus, they’re operated using an access control system, so trespassers won’t be able to break into the gate using their usual tricks.

Most automatic gates also come with electronic logging capabilities that allow you to track comes and goes in your property. You can also install surveillance equipment on the gate, such as a CCTV camera and an intercom, to strengthen your security even more. 

2. Better Access Control

If your commercial property is for employees and staff only, it’s a good practice to employ strict access control on your premises. Depending on how much you want to limit entry on your property, there are different access control types.

Most systems have a keypad. You can change the passcode regularly to ensure your property’s security. Other automatic gates are operated using a keycard to deactivate if it gets lost or stolen.

3. Enhanced Convenience

Automated gates are easy to operate. These gates are operated remotely; you can open and close them with just a push of a button. This is helpful when you’re in a hurry, or when the weather is bad, and you don’t want to leave your car.

Slow-opening gates are common causes of bottlenecks. It can cause employees to be late for their shifts. With automated gates, people can enter and exit your property quickly without forming a long queue.

4. Superior Aesthetics

Electric gates are available in various styles and designs, so you can choose one that matches your building exterior. You can also communicate the image and vibe you want through your gates, cultivating your employees’ positive environment.

You can also pick your preferred mechanism for the gate. Choose from a swing, cantilever, or slide gate.

Apart from aesthetics, automated gates increase your property value. If you decide to relocate, you’ll be able to sell your property at a higher price. This increases your ROI on the installation cost of the gate. Plus, the benefits of the electric gate can also attract more potential buyers, helping you sell quickly. 

Trust only reputable automatic gate contractors to make sure you’re getting your money’s worth.

Professional Automatic Gate Installation in Texas

4 Sure Gates has a team of licensed gate contractors and installers, catering to residential and commercial clients in Dallas, Fort Worth, Plano, and the surrounding areas. With 15 years of industry experience, we’ll provide you with the best automatic gate system that meets your business’s security needs.

Contact us today to request a quote

4 Reasons Your Commercial Property Needs An Automatic Gate

Commercial metal automatics gates in fort worth, TX

With a steady flow of people going in and out of your commercial property, unauthorized individuals can easily sneak in with the crowd. Businesses need to double their security measures to prevent break-ins and burglaries, safeguard merchandise and cash, and protect staff and employees.

Installing an automatic gate for your commercial property can strengthen your security. Many businesses have invested in electronic gates for their many benefits. With various designs available, an automatic gate will complement the style of your building, increase your property value, and make your exteriors more appealing to visitors and customers.

See our top four ways that your business could benefit from an automatic gate.

1. Heightened Security

Controlling the people who go in and out of your property is critical to maintaining your security. An electric automatic gate is an excellent deterrent to potential threats. Many systems operate with keypad access control. Only people who know the password or security code will be able to enter the property.

Some automatic gate systems are operated using a key card, which can be deactivated in case of loss or theft.

You can have your automatic gates installed with a camera and an intercom to heighten your security even more. These features give you greater control over the people who come in and out of your property. Plus, you’ll be able to identify burglars and trespassers by their voices or face.

2. Convenient Operation

Another benefit of automated gates is their easy and convenient operation. The gates can be operated remotely, so you won’t have to go through the hassle of leaving your office to open or close them. Plus, it can be risky to operate the gates manually during severe weather conditions or late at night.

Automatic gates also make it easier to leave when you’re in a hurry. You won’t have to get out of your car to open the gate or close it behind you. You simply need to push a button or scan in and out.

3. Higher Property Value

Suppose you ever decide to relocate your operations. In that case, an automatic gate will make your commercial building more appealing to potential buyers. The higher property value will give you a higher ROI on your electric gate installment. Many people are willing to pay more for properties with existing security features because they won’t have to cover the installment cost themselves.

4. Increased Customer Trust

Electric automatic gates increase your security and curb appeal, making you look more professional and dedicated to your role as a service provider. This makes you seem reliable, which helps build customer trust.

Trust is vital in relationship building. Once customers trust your brand, they’ll be more likely to buy from you again or recommend you to others, which increases your bottom line.

Invest only in high-quality automatic gates from reputable service providers to ensure maximum efficiency and durability.

Professional Gate Repair and Installation in Texas

With 15 years of professional automatic gate repair and installation experience, 4 Sure Gates puts our team of licensed gate contractors and installers at your service in the Dallas, Fort Worth, Plano, and surrounding areas. We’ll provide you with the best automatic gate system that meets the security needs of your business.

Get a quote today and contact us at (817) 965-7873.

Driveway Gates, Gated Communities, Commercial Gates & More

4 Sure Gates offers services for all your gate needs, from gate repair to gate installation or servicing, we do it all!

But we don’t just provide you with all the automatic, manual, and electric gate services you need – we also provide you with all the gate options you need! Driveway gates for residential, commercial gates for your business, even automatic gates for gated communities and security.

Our expansive options in gate services, gate styles, and brands are exactly why we are your premier, local gate repair company in Dallas and Fort Worth!

We Have the Best Selection of Metal Driveway Gates

Typically, a driveway gate, or drive gate, is classified without a motor or operator system, however, not always! We have automatic and electric driveway gates to fit any home style or land style.

We can set your driveway gate at the back of your drive or property, or the front. And as driveway gates are typically large metal framed gates, we can install either a single swing or double swing entry setup, according to your preferences and budget.

Most of our driveway gates are usually built large enough to allow equipment, such as a boat or a jet ski, into the backyard or side of your house, however, sizing is completely up to you, our customer.

Plus, our driveway gate designs can be set up to swing or to slide. Driveway gates can be purchased plain, with ornate design elements, or customized with spear tips, scrollwork, puppy pickets, or infill options – we have so many options, and can match your style and preferences to a T. And, of course, 4 Sure Gates driveway gates are built to last with premier materials from the best brands.

Another perk? Our driveway gates are economical, because we keep our prices affordable – give us a call to learn more today.

Automatic Gates for Gated Communities

Our classic gated community designs can weigh up to 500 lbs depending on the size and style that is ordered. Many of our gates come in 10, 12, and 14-foot widths for singles, and 14, 16, and 18-foot widths for double or bi-parting gates. Plus, our automatic gate options for gated communities include a variety of shapes, like flat top, bell curve, and archtop. Check out a few of our styles below – or see them all on our gate design page!

Arched commercial gate designs

Bell shaped gate designs in fort worth

flat gate designs in fort worth

Our more ornate gates show 4 Sure Gates attention to detail and style – however, even simple designs can add security and aesthetic appeal to your gated community.

We have earned a reputation in Fort Worth and Dallas for installing, fixing, and servicing some of the most beautiful, functional, and secure gates available, all while keeping our pricing affordable and our customer service superb.

Commercial Gates for Your Business

We not only have gate solutions for your driveway or gated community, but we also design solutions for warehouses, lots, and businesses both big or small.

Every commercial gate solution we install, service, or repair is meant to give your business the peace of mind it needs to function well – around the clock!

Our commercial gates provide security and access for all types of businesses, industries, and builders as well as local and state buildings. We have been installing and serving commercial gates and related products to fit all types of sites for over 15 years – making us your trusted and local choice with the experience and quality your business deserves.

Contact 4 Sure Gates for All Your Driveway Gates, Gated Communities, & Commercial Gate Needs

Businesses throughout North Texas have relied on 4 Sure Gates for all their driveway and commercial gate installation, service, and repair needs for over 15 years.

Find out why and contact us to learn more about our products, installation, and automatic gate repair services today!