Many businesses and organisations are looking for ways to improve the security of their premises and one of the best ways of doing so is with some form of fencing.
Of course, when you have fencing installed you will also need to have a gate to allow access to those that require it. Automatic gates are the most common option for large areas, such as businesses and warehouses, when quick access is needed along with high levels of security.
However, with there being automatic gates for all commercial situations, you may not know which the best option for you is. In this article, we will describe the most popular types of automatic gates to help you come to a decision.
Swing Gates
There are four main types of swing gates, namely:
- Ornamental automatic swing gates
- Balustrade gates
- Palisade gates
- Welded mesh gates
However bespoke designs can also be constructed. Swing gates are a great option for organisations who want their gates to look aesthetically pleasing in addition to being functional, such as parks and stately homes. High security swing gates are available, and these can be automated or operated with a remote control. They can also be designed with extra features such as barbed wire and electric pulses, to act as a deterrent.
Sliding Gates
Automatic sliding gates are generally more secure than swing gates as they are a lot harder to force open – even if a vehicle is used to gain access. They have a rigid structure, and less vulnerable points than their swing counterparts, and they also look a lot more secure making them a great deterrent. Sliding gates can be as large as 15m wide, making them extremely space efficient, and they are also the best option if the floor is raised inside the property. Automatic sliding gates for all commercial situations are available, which is perhaps why they are the most popular option with businesses and organisations in the UK.
Bi-Folding Gates
Bi-folding gates are often referred to as speed gates due to the short amount of time it takes for them to open and close. They are especially useful for organisations that are only permitted to allow access for a limited amount of time, as well as places where there is a lot of continual vehicle traffic, such as banks, schools and staff car parks. Bi-folding gates can also be designed with aesthetics in mind, so it is possible to incorporate the logo of the organisation on them, or simply paint them in relevant colours. Because of the speed these gates open, however, safety is paramount, so it is vital that people are trained in how to use them correctly.
Telescopic Gates
Telescopic gates are very similar to sliding gates, but they take up less space. When this type of gate is opened, the individual sections of the gate overlap each other. This therefore makes them ideal for use when security is important, but there is little room outside the premises for the gates to operate. Telescopic gates can only be installed on even ground, due to the mechanism that they need to open. These gates can also be painted to make them aesthetically pleasing, and they can be operated via different access control systems. They are suited for the same kinds of premises as the traditional sliding gate.
Automatic gates can help improve your security whilst allowing access to those who need it. The best type for you will depend on your business, and the level of security that you need.
