Security gates are a wise investment for a range of commercial spaces. From schools and offices to warehouse depots and construction sites, the right security gate can keep staff, customers, and visitors secure and ensure a safe flow of traffic.
It’s important to note, however, that there are several gate types to choose from, and every commercial site will have different requirements. If you’re looking to install, replace, or upgrade your commercial property’s security gates, our guide is here to help you find the best solution for your space.
Factors to consider before choosing a commercial security gate
A good place to start when choosing the right commercial security gate is to take stock of your premises and what you need from your perimeter security solutions.
Here are some questions and points to consider:
- Your site layout: Do you have a single entrance and exit point or multiple? How much space do you have available for your gate installation?
- Traffic volume: How busy does the premises get? Do you need to provide access for vehicles, pedestrians, or both? It’s worth considering whether traffic is consistent, or if you have peak times, such as early morning or at the end of the school day.
- Desired security level: How secure does your building need to be? This will impact any access control measures you put in place. For example, if your main aim is to optimise footfall and traffic flow, you may not require swipe card access. But if you need to closely monitor who comes in and out and when, additional features, including CCTV, can be very beneficial.
- Power source availability: Is your gate going to be a permanent security measure, or do you need a temporary fixture for a construction site? This aspect may affect the power source available which, in turn, can impact whether your gate is automated or manually operated.
- Integration with existing systems: Are you upgrading a current security gate? If you’re installing a new gate within existing fencing or you have CCTV and access control systems already set up, this may affect your gate choices.
What types of security gates are available?
To help you work out which security gate will be most suitable for your space, it’s important to understand your options.
At Security Solutions, we can provide three main security gate forms for vehicle use, along with our pedestrian gates. While we can customise every product to your requirements, you’ll need to select the best basic format for your needs.
Sliding gates
Sliding security gates, like the SSSG Steel Cantilever Sliding Gate, are ideal for high-traffic sites that require high levels of security. Sliding gates open relatively slowly, providing controlled access and operation, and they can be constructed with broad openings, suitable for very large vehicles.
Because they are integrated into the fencing and slide across rather than opening out, these are also an excellent option when space is limited.
Sliding gates are best suited for:
- Distribution centres and depots
- High-security facilities
- Warehouses requiring access for large vehicles
- Industrial estates where space may be limited
Swing gates
For businesses and commercial spaces in need of a cost-effective security solution, swing gates are an excellent choice. These operate in a straightforward fashion, opening inwards or outwards to provide access.
Their motion means they require more space than swing or bi-fold gates, so this is something to take into consideration.
Swing gates are best suited for:
- Office car parks
- Business parks and retail spaces
- Schools and public buildings
Bi-fold gates
If your space has a busy entrance with a fast flow of traffic, bi-folding security gates are the perfect solution. This type of gate has a space-saving concertina design and opens and closes quickly, allowing you to control traffic flow.
Bi-fold gates are best suited for:
- Commercial spaces with very high traffic
- Airports
- Emergency services depots (such as fire stations and police stations)
Pedestrian gates
While the previous gate types are designed with vehicles in mind, your premises may require safe access for pedestrians. Dedicated pedestrian gates allow those on foot to enter and exit the space securely without risk of any vehicle-related accidents.
You might choose to integrate a pedestrian gate alongside vehicle gates or as a standalone solution.
Pedestrian gates are best suited for:
- Office complexes
- Schools, universities, and other educational institutions
- Hospitals and healthcare facilities
- Industrial sites with restricted staff access areas
- Theme parks
Security gate customisation and integration options
As well as the structure itself, additional security features can be integrated into your security gates. We pride ourselves on tailoring our solutions to each client’s requirements, and we’ve seen how beneficial security technology can be for a variety of commercial properties and spaces.
When planning your security gate installation or upgrade, it’s worth considering the following customisation options:
- Access control systems: From key fob access and intercom systems to automatic sensors, there are plenty of access control options to ensure you have complete oversight of who enters and exits.
- CCTV cameras: You can combine access control panels or systems with CCTV to provide greater vision of any car parks, building entrances, and exits.
- ANPR: Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) technology can give you further peace of mind, allowing you to easily identify the registration of any vehicles that enter the premises.
- Accessibility solutions: From flashing lights to audio alarms, you can ensure your gates are fully accessible.
- Powder-coated finishes and branding: Security gates can be both robust and aesthetically pleasing. Why not customise your gates with a powder-coated finish in your choice of colour? We can design your gates to reflect your brand or business.
Why work with Security Solutions?
With over a decade of experience in helping businesses install tailor-made security gates, turnstiles, and barriers, we have a deep understanding of how the right solutions can improve safety, security, and staff and customer satisfaction.
We can customise our security gates to your requirements, whether you have an aesthetic in mind or you need high-tech access control. We’ll handle all the details — from design and manufacture to installation and integration with any existing systems. What’s more, we provide comprehensive service and maintenance packages to ensure your security gates remain in top condition.
To learn more about our commercial security gate options and to discuss your requirements, please don’t hesitate to get in touch for a free, no-obligation site visit and quote.