Security Gates - understanding the different types and their uses

Introduction

Vertical security gates are specialized lift gates that offer superior protection from potential intruders at commercial, industrial, and residential properties and facilities. They rise and lower or swing in and out as needed and come in a variety of shapes and sizes, each offering something different than their respective counterparts.

While there are plenty of gates to choose from, understanding the differences and identifying which gate best meets your unique needs can quickly become an overwhelming challenge. Crash-rated versus crash-tested, hydraulic versus electric, single or double track configuration, etc. – there’s certainly no shortage in terms of variety and customization options.

This article identifies the different types of vertical gates and breaks down the unique functionality each of them offers, providing you with a comprehensive guide that’ll help you determine which vertical gate is ideal for your next project.

Standard Vertical Gates

Also known as swing gates, this type of gate is the most common type of gate system and an excellent, low-maintenance, and reliable solution to control vehicle access. They consist of two side-by-side panels that swing back and forth to open and close.

Typically made of steel, aluminum, and/or wrought iron, they come in electric and hydraulic options with crash-rated options. While they’re commonly installed at residential properties and gated communities, commercial and industrial grade designs are also available.

Automated Vertical Gates

Moving a step up in security, automated gates offer an upgrade in convenience and security. Opened with remote controls or physical buttons, automated gates leverage sensors to detect unauthorized access and react accordingly.

Automated gates require less maintenance than manual gates, so while they can be found at just about any type of residential community or property, they’re more ideal for commercial buildings than manual vertical gates.

Slide Gates

Slide gates are a great option for controlling access to properties and businesses with limited space. They consist of two panels that operate on a smooth sliding v-track, taking advantage of wheels or rollers to help slide the panels open or closed.

Slide gates offer plenty in terms of customization, such as chain-link or ornamental designs, various locking mechanisms, electric or hydraulic opening systems, and reinforcement options to meet differing crash ratings.

Bi-folding Gates

Another gate option that doesn’t require a lot of space to operate, bi-folding gates feature panels that fold inwards or outwards, let vehicles in or out, making them an ideal choice for facilities that want high security without sacrificing aesthetics.

Available in electric and hydraulic opening systems with various locking mechanisms, these bi-folding gates also offer fast operation through speed designs, allowing them to open and close rapidly for further protection. For an additional layer of security, crash-rated models are also available.

Pivot Gates

Another ideal solution for sites with limited space, pivot vertical gates offer a trackless and compact design for securing access control in high-traffic areas. These gates consist of a single panel that moves upward when vehicles enter or leave the premises and are typically more common at entrances with uneven ground.

Pivot gates can be customized to meet specific size and functionality requirements, incorporating durable construction designed for long-lasting security that combines efficient access control with preserving facility aesthetics.

Cantilever Gates

Cantilever gates operate a little differently than other gates, being that they don’t touch the ground and operate on cantilever rollers. Without the need for a track on the ground, cantilever gates are especially appropriate for sites and facilities where aesthetics is particularly important.

Available in aluminum, steel, or chain link, these electric-powered gates offer single or double track configurations and crash-tested models, making them a highly customizable and versatile option for controlling vehicle access.

Other considerations for security gates

As you’ve probably gathered, there are a lot of factors to consider when deciding which vertical gate makes the most sense for your unique needs. Size requirements, varying levels of protection, manual versus automatic, integrating access control, etc., are all important factors to consider.

Outside of gate functionality and versatility, maintenance needs are another consideration. To ensure the longevity of equipment and to help keep equipment operating at peak efficiency, security gates should be regularly assessed and maintained by certified technicians. In addition, having an emergency response plan in the event it does go down is also critical to keeping facilities and properties safe from unauthorized access.

Conclusion

By now, it’s apparent that choosing the right security gate involves a lot of different considerations, which is why it’s not uncommon to seek outside help. Working with an expert security integrator provides a variety of benefits that extend beyond finding the right equipment to meet your unique needs.

Organizations like IronSite offer design assistance, project management, and assessment services to help make your next project an overwhelming success. 

IronSite is a national physical security provider with specialized expertise to deliver premium solutions at scale. Our extensive family of brands nationwide enables responsive and consistent service and support for all our clients wherever they may be.

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Media Contact

Terin Pickett

IronSite

1595 E. 6th St; Suite 101

Corona, CA 92879

info@ironsite.com