One of the first and most effective lines of defense for your property is a security gate. Whether you’re operating a warehouse, managing an office building, or running a retail business, having a robust security gate system is essential for protecting assets, controlling access, and ensuring the safety of employees and customers.
At Security Gate & Access, LLC in Puyallup, WA, security is what we do. In this blog post, we’ll explore the various types of commercial security gates, how to choose the best one for your business, and how integrating other security measures can enhance your protection.
Table of Contents
What Properties Need Commercial Security Gates?
Commercial security gates are crucial for a wide range of businesses and organizations. How much security you need depends greatly on how much valuable property you have and the area you live in. Unfortunately, here in the Tacoma area, security is particularly important due to the city’s high crime rates.
Some of the properties that benefit most from a security gate system include:
- Warehouses and Industrial Facilities: With valuable goods and equipment on-site, securing your property is paramount to prevent theft, vandalism, or unauthorized access.
- Office Buildings: For businesses in high-traffic areas or those storing sensitive information, controlling who enters and exits your building is critical to maintaining a secure environment.
- Retail Stores and Shopping Centers: During non-business hours, security gates can help protect storefronts from break-ins and theft.
- Educational Institutions and Healthcare Facilities: Security gates help manage the flow of students, staff, and visitors, ensuring that only authorized individuals have access to certain areas.
- Government and Military Properties: These properties often require higher levels of security, and a sturdy gate system is an integral part of protecting sensitive materials and people.
Types of Commercial Security Gates
There are several types of security gates to consider, each with its own unique advantages and considerations. Choosing the right one for your business depends on factors such as space, traffic flow, and the level of security you require.
Swing Gates
These gates swing open from hinges at the gate posts, much like a door. It’s a classic, simple option that’s practical for many properties. You’ll need sufficient space for the gate to swing inward or outward. Swing gates are usually best for smaller or less busy properties since they aren’t always the fastest to open and close. They’re easy to install and maintain.
Slide Gates
For areas with less space, slide gates are a great fit. They slide horizontally along the fence or wall to open, taking up very little room. However, they require a clear path to operate—any debris can disrupt the gate’s movement. A little bit of maintenance may be needed to keep the track clean and efficient. Slide gates often offer superior security due to the sturdy way they latch.
Vertical Lift or Pivot Gates
Vertical lift gates may be the solution for properties with limited horizontal space. A vertical lift gate lifts straight up, whereas a vertical pivot gate rotates vertically to open. Their quick operation makes them ideal for maintaining traffic flow, so these gates are common for garages and driveways. They are, however, more expensive to install and maintain than some alternatives.
Bi-folding Gates
These gates fold in half as they open, requiring less space than traditional swing gates. They’re best for locations with limited clearance and where quick access is needed for pedestrians or vehicles. Since there are more moving parts, bi-fold gates can be pricey and may require more maintenance.
Security Gate for Business Considerations
Beyond choosing the right commercial security gates for your property, you also need to consider the other elements of your security system. A gate alone may be sufficient if you have minimal security concerns and simply need to regulate traffic. But to truly protect your property, you’ll likely need some combination of security gates, access control, perimeter fencing, and surveillance.
Access Control
A crucial aspect of commercial security gates is access control. Depending on your business needs, you can integrate various access control systems, such as:
- Keycards: Convenient for employees and contractors to access restricted areas.
- Biometric Systems: Fingerprint or facial recognition systems offer the highest level of security.
- Keypads and Remote Systems: Ideal for businesses with fluctuating access needs or those that want to track entry logs.
Integrating these systems into your security gate setup ensures only authorized personnel can access your premises while offering you peace of mind.
Perimeter Fencing
While a security gate provides a controlled entry point, perimeter fencing complements the system by acting as an additional barrier to unauthorized access. Fencing should be sturdy, tall enough to deter climbing, and designed to withstand the local weather conditions. Combining high-quality fencing with a security gate creates a comprehensive perimeter defense system.
Surveillance
Commercial security gates work best when integrated with surveillance systems. Video cameras positioned near your gates allow you to monitor who is entering and exiting the premises, and in case of an incident, surveillance footage can be vital for identifying suspects. Cameras can be linked to your gate’s access control system to use facial recognition or license plate reading to recognize authorized users.
Integrating Other Security Measures
While a commercial security gate is a vital component of your business’s security, it’s even more effective when paired with other systems and technologies. Here are a few additional measures to consider integrating:
- Electric Fencing: For high-security areas, electric fences can provide a deterrent to intruders. The non-lethal shock from an electric fence discourages tampering and helps protect outside storage areas.
- Alarm Systems: Integrating your security gate with an alarm system ensures that if an unauthorized entry is attempted, you’ll receive an immediate alert, allowing you to take swift action.
- Lighting: Well-lit entrances are an essential part of preventing criminal activity. Combine lighting with your gate system to increase visibility and discourage potential intruders.
Find Your Commercial Security Gate Solution at SGA
At Security Gate & Access LLC, we specialize in providing top-of-the-line security gate systems tailored to your business’s unique needs. With over 30 years of experience serving Puyallup, WA, and the surrounding areas, our expert team is dedicated to delivering customized solutions that combine functionality, durability, and aesthetics.
Whether you need a simple swing gate for a small office or a sophisticated electric gate system for a large industrial facility, we have the expertise and resources to help you choose and install the perfect solution. Contact us today to discuss your security goals, and let us help you find the best solution to secure your property in 2025 and beyond.
