When Security Gates Make Sense for Your Space
As an architect or building manager, ensuring the safety and security of a new space is your top priority. Heavy-duty security gates, typically known as accordion gates or roll down gates, can be an effective solution for controlling access and preventing theft and/or vandalism. In this blog post, we’ll explore when security gates can make the most sense for your building or facility.
What are Security Gates?
Security gates are movable barriers typically made of aluminum or stainless steel. They can be manually operated or automated to open and close on demand. When closed, they create a sturdy metal barrier that can secure doorways, entry systems, and other access points.
Security gate systems come in a wide range of sizes, styles, and configurations to fit different spaces. Some popular types include:
- Accordion gates – These folding security gates fold in an accordion style when retracted and can cover large openings up to 40 feet wide while having the ability to open and close quickly.
- Roll down gates – These gates roll up onto a barrel when retracted and are ideal for smaller spaces. They can be manually operated or be set up to be automatic gates.
- Swinging gates – These single panel gates swing open and can be used alone or in pairs to control wider openings.
- Sliding gates – These gates slide horizontally on overhead tracks and are ideal for when space limitations prevent gates from fully swinging open.
Security gate frames can include options like casters, galvanized steel, vision panels, locking systems, safety sensors, and more.
When Does the Use of Security Gates Make Sense?
Here are some of the most common settings where installing security gates becomes especially advantageous:
1. Financial Institutions
Banks, credit unions, and other financial businesses have an obligation to protect assets and secure sensitive customer information. Retractable security gates create an added layer of protection and visual deterrent to would-be robbers, especially after hours, all while limiting foot traffic to specific areas. Security gates can secure teller stations, safe rooms, vaults, and other vulnerable areas easily and effectively.
2. Retail Spaces
For retail stores, security gates allow businesses to display merchandise openly within their storefront while keeping their products secure after hours. Security gates help to prevent smash and grab style robberies and can protect main entrances, display cases, and storage areas.
3. Hospitals and Healthcare Facilities
In hospitals, clinics, and mental health facilities, patient safety is the priority. Security gates can restrict access to pharmacies, medical supply rooms, and dispensaries to prevent theft and medication tampering. They can also secure stairwells, restrict certain parts of floors, and control access to pediatric or psychiatric wards as well.
4. Schools and Universities
Schools need to control access to protect students and faculty. Security gates give staff quick control over entry/exit points, can lock down wings or floors in emergencies, and also deter trespassing and vandalism in off-hours. Strategic use of pedestrian gates also have the ability to guide visitors to the main offices for a secure check-in.
5. Commercial Properties
In offices, warehouses, and industrial buildings, security gates provide affordable access control to occupants and visitors. They can secure corridors, storage areas, or equipment rooms while maintaining visibility and preventing unauthorized entry. For parking garages, high speed roll down grilles quickly secure entry and exit points after hours.
6. Data Centers
Data centers and server rooms contain critical and sensitive information. Security gates restrict access to authorized personnel only. They provide an added layer of protection beyond keycard systems, biometric scanners, or security guards. Fire rated gates can integrate with other safety systems for added security and fire containment.
Key Factors When Considering Security Gates
If security gates seem like the right solution for your facility, here are some important factors to consider:
- Opening sizes – Measure the width and height of all areas you want to secure. This determines what gate sizes and types will work best.
- Traffic patterns – Assess the traffic flow throughout each area. High traffic entries and exits will likely require high speed automated gates. Low traffic areas can use manual gates.
- Safety regulations – In fire rated openings and exit ways, only use gates that meet fire codes and include safety release sensors.
- Aesthetics – Gates are highly visible, so choose colors and panel designs that coordinate with your facility’s aesthetics.
- Access control – Determine if the gates will be manually operated or integrated with other security systems, keypads, or access control cards.
- Operation – For frequently used gates, automated operation provides convenience over manual operation. Consider power requirements.
- Security level – Heavier gauge metal, closer spacing of vertical bars, and lock types help increase security even more. Choose what fits your needs best.
Working with Alder’s
Properly designed security gates provide an attractive and space-efficient way to protect your building without sacrificing aesthetics or visibility. With many types and configurations to choose from, you can find the right security gates to meet your space requirements and overall security goals.
At Alder’s, we offer a wide selection of high-quality security gates, security doors, and grilles to meet your needs. With extensive experience specializing in security solutions and gate installation, our knowledgeable team can assess your facility, recommend the appropriate products, and handle beginning-to-end implementation. We work with top manufacturers including Cornell, Dynamic Closures, and Alumatec that meet the most stringent building and fire codes while our Alder’s service team can assist with the repair or maintenance of any existing security gates, even when installed by a competitor. Contact us today to learn how we can help secure your building with attractive, durable security gates that protect your assets while complementing your space.
