7 Types of Security Gates: Finding the Best Gate

More than four in 10 (44%) Americans worry about their homes being burglarized, according to a 2023 Gallup poll. So, it's not surprising security gates are at the top of many renters' minds. In Allegion's 2023 Multifamily Living Trends Report, 88% of multifamily residents said a locked gate is a necessary or nice-to-have feature when picking a new residence.

Ready to invest in a security gate for your multifamily community? This comprehensive guide explores:

• What is a security gate?

• The value of security gates

• How residential security gates differ from commercial security gates

• Electric gates vs. manual gates

• Vehicle gates vs. pedestrian gates

• The seven types of security gates

• How to select the best security gate for your community

What is a security gate?

Security gates are physical barriers that control access to a community. The physical elements of security gates include the gates themselves as well as locks, alarms and gate operators that control movement. Many security gates integrate with access control devices that authorize entry. These systems can include sensors, card readers, security cameras, an intercom system and access management software.

The value of security gates

The safety benefits of security gates are hard to overstate, and safety is just one upside for communities. Security gates restrict foot and auto traffic-including solicitors-which affords residents more peace and quiet. They also help create a sense of privacy and community inside the gates.

Security gates can help boost property values. According to a 2022 study in Managerial Finance, home prices are significantly higher in communities with security gates, guards or patrols. Plus, because residents want security gates with access control, they may be willing to pay more for them. In the Allegion study, 34% of multifamily renters said they'd pay higher rent to live in a community offering remote access control, allowing them to monitor entry to their home.

How residential security gates differ from commercial security gates

Is a commercial or residential security gate right for your community? It depends on your security needs. Residential driveway security gates work well for many multifamily communities. They're designed for moderate use and basic security situations. They're often smaller and more ornate than commercial gates.

Commercial security gates are designed for heavy use and stricter security situations. They're usually more prominent in size and more imposing in appearance. Because businesses usually admit more traffic than residences, security gates for business are durable, easy to operate and quick to open.

Large multifamily communities with heavy traffic or high-security needs may want to invest in a commercial security gate. You won't have to trade off aesthetics. Many commercial gates are built with appearance in mind and can be customized to complement the overall look of your community.

Electric gates vs. manual gates

Electric security gates, often called automated gates, open and close without human intervention. When integrated with an access control system, residents can use a mobile app, key card, fob or PIN to come and go. Electric gates usually open and close quickly, providing a high level of security.

These gates require a constant power source, so you must install electric cables during the setup. Solar power is an option in areas with eight hours of unobstructed sunlight daily. But, even in sufficiently sunny areas, a solar-powered gate opener only powers a limited number of gate openings and closings. For most communities, solar can be a backup during power outages but needs to be paired with a hard-wired gate opener for reliable operation.

Manual security gates are powered by humans. They usually have simple latches and locks. They tend to be affordable, low-maintenance and easy to use. But, because humans need to remember to close and lock manual gates, they are more inconvenient and less secure than electric gates. While electric gates cost more to install and maintain, they free your site team from needing to manage access and keys, which can lead to significant labor savings.

Vehicle gates vs. pedestrian gates

A vehicle security gate manages the entry and exit of automobiles. Vehicle gates are larger and wider and usually feature more security measures.

A pedestrian gate manages the entry and exit of people on foot or bikes. Pedestrian gates are smaller, narrower and usually more ornamental. If you anticipate foot traffic in your community, installing a pedestrian gate is a good idea. As with vehicle gates, you can integrate pedestrian gates with your smart access control system to manage entry. Or you can opt for a manual key-operated pedestrian gate.

The 7 types of security gates

The ideal security gate for your community depends on your unique needs. Here are seven types to consider, along with their advantages and disadvantages.

1. Folding security gates

Folding security gates consist of panels joined by hinges, which fold open in accordion style. Bi-folding gates feature two hinged panels on each side of an opening. The panels fold to their respective sides to let cars pass.

Folding security gates usually open and close rapidly. Some folding gates operate on tracks, while others are trackless. Because the panels fold together, they don't take up much space, making them one of the best security gates for tight areas. They may work well in dense urban areas.

Pros:

• Open and close rapidly

• Require minimal space

• Provide a cost-effective solution

Cons:

• May be prone to jamming

• May involve more complex installation than other types

2. Vertical pivot security gates

Vertical pivot gates swing upward from a single pivot point on one side, similar to how railroad crossing arms operate. They open and close faster than most other gate types. Because they don't slide across the ground, they're good choices for areas without flat, even ground. For example, they can work in areas with curbs, road elevation changes or drainage swales. Unlike other options, they operate efficiently when snow is on the ground.

Pros:

• Offer durability

• Open and close rapidly

• Perform well on uneven ground

• Operate reliably in heavy snow

• Require minimal horizontal space

Cons:

• May involve more complex installation than other types

• May be more costly than other types

3. Vertical lift security gates

Powered by hydraulic gate operators, vertical lift gates move along rollers or rails to open from the bottom upward. While they save horizontal space, they only work when you have ample overhead space for vehicles to pass under them. Like vertical pivot gates, they're a good choice in regions with heavy snow.

These gates are one of the most secure gate options. Unlike some other types of gates, it's hard to gain entry from ramming into them. Plus, they open and close quickly to prevent unauthorized entry.

Pros:

• Open and close rapidly

• Require minimal horizontal space

• Operate reliably in heavy snow

• Provide excellent security

Cons:

• Require ample vertical space

• May involve more complex installation than other types

• May be more costly than other types

• Can be hazardous to walk under when closing

4. Sliding security gates

Sliding gates, sometimes called rolling security gates, glide on wheels or a roller track on the ground. They can feature a single panel that slides to one side or two panels that slide to opposite sides.

Sliding security gates work well for wide openings. You need plenty of fencing on one or both sides to accommodate the gate's operation. But they only move horizontally, so you don't need a lot of clearance in front of or behind them. They're a good option for communities with limited parking space. Because of their construction, they can usually withstand wind gusts better than other gates.

Pros:

• Are easy to use

• Provide excellent security

• Perform well in windy areas

• Leave extra room for parking

Cons:

• Can be dangerous if closing on a person or animal

• Function only on level ground

5. Overhead slide security gates

Overhead slide gates move horizontally like sliding gates. But rather than moving on a track on the ground, they slide along an overhead track. Like sliding gates, they need plenty of side clearance to operate, and they maximize space on the ground. Because they hang, they can move over uneven ground. They're a durable solution that can withstand heavy use.

Pros:

• Offer durability

• Provide excellent security

• Withstand heavy use

Cons:

• May restrict the entry of taller vehicles

• May involve more complex installation than other types

• May be more costly than other types

6. Cantilever slide security gates

Cantilever slide gates are similar to sliding gates but slide on rails on the ground instead of on a track or wheels. These gates work great for wide openings. They also work well in snowy conditions, although they need bracing to stay stable in wind.

Because they slide open horizontally, they leave extra room for parking, making them a good choice for communities with limited parking space. These gates need to be about 50% larger than the opening because they need a proper counterbalance tail. For this reason, they require more materials and may be a more expensive option than other types of gates.

Pros:

• Glide over uneven terrain

• Leave extra room for parking

• Suit wide openings

• Operate reliably in snow

Cons:

• Perform poorly in windy areas

• May be more costly than other types of gates

7. Swinging security gates

These popular gates swing on a hinge like a door. Single-swinging gates feature a panel that swings to one side, while double-swinging gates feature two panels that swing to opposite sides. Single swinging gates require significant clearance behind the gate to open properly. Swinging gates don't work well on a slope and aren't ideal for windy areas because the wind can catch the panels like a sail.

Pros:

• Are easy to install

• Are easy to maintain

Cons:

• Open more slowly than other options

• Require space to swing open

• Are ineffective on sloped driveways

• Don't perform well in windy areas

How to select the best security gate for your community

It may feel daunting to choose a gate with so many options available. Here are factors to consider when narrowing down your selection.

Size and space

Your gate needs to suit your space. Do you have a wide opening? A sliding gate or cantilever sliding gate may be the best option, as they can span wide openings without requiring space behind the gate. If you lack clearance on either side, a folding, vertical lift, or vertical pivot gate may be better. Also, consider the slope of the ground, curbs and other property features. If you need help, a security gate company can evaluate your site and provide recommendations.

Cost

Your budget plays a key role in choosing a gate because prices vary greatly. Simpler gates, like swing and sliding gates, are less costly. Gates with more complex mechanisms, like vertical lift and pivot gates, are more expensive. Gates that require more materials, like cantilever slide security gates, also come with higher costs.

Be sure to factor in the total cost of ownership, not just the upfront costs. For example, a manual gate is less expensive upfront than an electric gate. But once you consider your staff's time to attend the gate and manage keys, an electric gate may save money in the long term.

Functionality

How much traffic or foot traffic do you expect? If a line of cars streams out of your community every morning, your gate must open and close rapidly to prevent backups. Is security a top concern for your residents? If so, you need a gate that's hard to tamper with and operates quickly to prevent unauthorized access. Do people come and go on foot or by bike? You may need a pedestrian gate in addition to your vehicle gate.

Durability

Your gate needs to withstand the elements, so consider the weather patterns in your area. Remember that sliding and vertical gates typically work better in snow than swinging gates, and sliding gates tend to withstand wind gusts best.

Consider durability when selecting gate materials, too. Galvanized steel tends to be the most durable gate material because it's strong and long-lasting. Aluminum is also durable, and it's lightweight and excellent at resisting corrosion. Wrought iron is strong, sturdy and aesthetically pleasing, but it's susceptible to rust without regular cleaning and maintenance.

Access control

Your security gate should integrate seamlessly with your access control system. Your access control system should ideally support flexible authorization options, such as phones, PINs, cards or fobs. Your system should make it easy for your site team to monitor security gates remotely and track entries and exits. Plus, it should integrate with your project management software for easier move-ins and move-outs.

If you opt for an electric gate, a gate access control system can automatically open the gate for authorized residents, visitors and vendors. If you opt for a manual gate, your access control system can verify access, but a site team member must physically open and close the gate.

Conclusion

Selecting the right security gate can help you enhance the safety of your community. Consider the advantages and drawbacks of these seven types of gates:

• Folding security gates

• Vertical pivot security gates

• Vertical lift security gates

• Sliding security gates

• Overhead slide security gates

• Cantilever slide security gates

• Swinging security gates

Factor in your property's size and space and how the gate integrates with your access control system. Also, consider the durability, functionality and cost of each type of gate. By choosing the best security gate for your needs, you'll foster a private, secure environment for everyone in your community.

(Photo credit to Thomas Bullock.)

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