Deciding What Automatic Gate is Best for Your Business
Automatic gates are a great investment for businesses because they provide security, value, and convenience. These types of gates have a number of different applications, such as gated communities, airports, detention facilities, storage complexes, delivery docks, transportation terminals, and commercial or industrial manufacturing plants to name a few.
There are a number of decisions to make when selecting an electric gate, but first, let’s dive into what it entails.
What is an Automatic Gate?
An electric or automatic gate is a large gate, typically for vehicles rather than people, that is connected to a mechanized arm that helps it open and close. It works similarly to a garage door, which typically opens with a key fob that sends a radio signal to a receiver near the door. However, electric gates have a multitude of ways of which to open, and choosing one depends on your specific needs.
Different Methods to Open Electric Gates
When picking out an electric gate for your property, you will have to decide on how you want it to open. Some options from About Quality Fence include:
- Radio
- Intercom
- Card readers
- Telephone access
- Keypad
- PC based systems
Card and code entry seem to be two of the most common choices for commercial properties, such as apartment buildings. You can give anyone access with either a card with a chip built-in or a code that they have to punch into a number pad. The downside with cards is that they can be lost or stolen, and the downside with codes is that they have to be memorized. Still, they tend to be the most popular choices.
An intercom or telephone entry tends to be the most secure because you have to call someone to open the door and they have to verify you have access. However, the downfall to this system is that you would have to have someone man the phone during business hours to allow access to anyone coming and going.
Your choice on access types really just depends on how secure you need your premises to be and what capabilities you want others to have. If you have any questions on the different methods to open electric gates, contact About Quality Fence today and we would be happy to get them answered for you!
How Will Your Automatic Gate Open?
There is also the choice of how your gate opens physically, whether swinging or sliding. This can depend on a few factors such as:
- How frequently the gate is used
- How much space you have
- Gate material
- Length of gate
- If the gate has horizontal support
Swing Style Automatic Gate Openers
A swing system requires more additional space because the gate needs room to fully swing open. It isn’t always ideal for commercial properties because of the strain a swing system has on a gate. However, there are different mechanical arms that can provide more support for those looking to have a swing gate installed on their commercial property.
Sliding Automatic Gate Openers
A sliding gate is typically preferred for commercial properties due to space requirements, maintenance, and security. Sliding gates don’t need as much space to function, which leaves more room for parking cars or landscaping. In addition, sliding gates can work on certain slopes where a swinging gate may not be an option.
Install and Automatic Gate Today!
Automatic gates give security, convenience, safety, and aesthetics to your commercial property, no matter the type. However, there are lots of options to decide on, so be sure to consult with a licensed professional before you make a final decision on which automatic gate opener to use.
If you are interested in having one of our fencing contractors discuss options and give you a free quote, contact About Quality Fence Today! We can design custom fences to fit your needs.
