6 Types of Gates Based on their Functions

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A gate or gateway is a point of entry to or from a space enclosed by walls. It helps manage the entry and exit from a property by installing security fences and movable barriers. 

Security is the primary aspect of having an entrance gate to help prevent intruders from breaking into your house. Additional advantages of installing a residential gate include cutting insurance costs, increasing your property's value, and improving your house's appearance.

Several types of gates are available for use in homes and public locations. The 6 popular types of gates based on their functions are described below.

1. Sliding Gate

Although sliding gates are a clichéd choice, the design is now widely used worldwide. A sliding gate uses the principle of moving swiftly when pushed, just as its name suggests. Unlike a normal gate, which must be opened from the middle, this gate must be slid open. 

The modern sliding gates are so delicately made and light in weight that anybody can open them by just sliding them. The fact that it opens sideways is among its most significant advantages. Therefore, a sliding gate is the best option for homes with limited space. 

Fig 1: Sliding Gate

Advantages of Sliding Gate

1. Improved safety and security
2. Reduced susceptibility to damage under high-wind loading conditions
3. They look particularly attractive in front gardens and are an excellent way to safeguard your driveway.
4. Secured with hook locks or automated gates

Disadvantages of Sliding Gate

1. Sliding gates are louder because they have more parts that move. Neither speeding up the lubrication process nor the pace at which maintenance is performed will prevent this from happening.
2. Regular maintenance is needed to clean the sliding gates' track of debris.
3. Sliding gates cost more to install because of the side panel.

2. Turnstile Gate

Turnstile gates are those small gates used in subways or other public places that only allow one person to pass through it at a time. Such gates were formerly used only near subways and train stations, but due to their numerous benefits, even huge corporations have begun to utilize them in the workplace.

Fig 2: Turnstile Gate

Advantages of Turnstile Gate

1. Most venues utilize card readers for admission through turnstile gates to scan tickets and allow entry.
2. Turnstile access control systems are often implemented to improve security at institutions and events. They may be set up to allow only those with the correct credentials.
3. Turnstiles may also be used to track admissions and exits from an event. Many amusement parks, sports venues, and organizations use entrance and exit turnstiles with counters to estimate the number of visitors in their facilities accurately.
4. The price is cheaper.
5. Waterproof and dustproof, adaptable to the climate, and appropriate for both indoor and outdoor use.

Disadvantages of Turnstile Gate

1. The channel width (the space that permits people’s entry) is quite narrow, often approximately 500 mm.
2. The speed of traffic is relatively slow.
3. Sometimes the turnstiles will collide mechanically during gate operation, causing significant noise. 

3. Vertical Pivot Gate

Vertical pivot gates are those that open up in the air to allow vehicles to pass through. Compared to swing and slide gates, which need twice as much area for opening on the ground, pivot gates use just the vertical space between the ground and the sky. 

Fig 3: Vertical Pivot Gate

Advantages of Verticle Pivot Gate

1. The convenience of pivot gate installation eliminates the need for highly qualified installers.
2. It saves a lot of floor space because it opens up vertically and doesn't need extra room to open them.
3. Opening and closing operation is fast.
4. High security (great for prison applications)
5. Low expenses for maintenance and repair
6. Defense against rusting

Disadvantages of Verticle Pivot Gate

1. The problem with this type of gate installation is that the gate operator requires a large footing to remain on.
2. The cost of installing a vertical pivot gate is also much higher.

4. Swing Gate

Swing gates enhance the visual attractiveness of one's property. These kinds of gates used to come in a limited number of designs in the past, but today there are many options available.  Swing gates are the best option for use inside factories to secure workplaces or houses. It requires enough space on the ground for these gates to open, so if the property is next to a sidewalk, it could be a problem.

Fig 4: Swing Gate

Advantages of Swing Gate

1. The biggest advantage of swinging gates is their low maintenance requirements, especially manual gates. Swing gates have no motor or electronics, so they operate straightforwardly.
2. Swing gates may be opened in either direction, making it simpler for people and vehicles from either direction to enter.
3. Swing gates are typically the more affordable choice.
4. They are more affordable to install since they have fewer moving components and need less setup at the fence's edge without a floor track.

Disadvantages of Swing Gate

1. Swing gates may not be an option if your driveway is short since they need more space within the entrance. The gates must have a lot of space behind them to open inward.
2. They are more difficult to fit on a slope.
3. They are more susceptible to wind damage and are less secure than sliding gates.

5. Retractable Security Gate

Given the ability to fold the security gate up and even store it, retractable gates are an excellent choice for places with limited floor space. These gates are not only more cost-effective, but they also give a higher level of safety and create an impressive fashion statement.

Fig 5: Retractable Security Gate

Advantages of Retractable Gate

1. Only one of the shutter's sides may be opened at a time for your convenience. Therefore, it will save you from having to open the door.
2. These gates are inexpensive.
3. It is possible to open a foldable gate halfway or all the way. 
4. This one is far lighter than the weight of other solid gates.
5. It provides a higher level of defense against thieves, hooligans, and other types of burglars.

Disadvantages of Retractable Gate

1. More dust gathers in the guiding channel because of this gate. Opening it becomes increasingly difficult.
2. This gate's steel channels might break if it isn't operated correctly.
3. There should be more lubrication. Therefore, it is not entirely maintenance-free.
4. Painting needs to be done often. They corrode more rapidly when exposed directly to sunshine or rain.

6. Automatic Gate

Electric gates are being employed in many buildings. When gates are automated, the need for personnel to operate them is eliminated, which results in cost savings. The automatic gates can be opened with a gate pass card or remote. 

Although these gates are usually connected to the main power line, their batteries allow them to operate continuously without any electrical problems.

Fig 6: Automatic Gate

Advantages of Automatic Gate

1. You can install a passcode or a card reader on an automated gate. These systems may improve access control.
2. Automated gates increase security.  You can reduce the danger of crimes like damage and theft since you can manage who has entered your property.
3. Manual gates and garages are inconvenient as they must be pulled to open or close. But in an automatic gate, one must press a button, or there will be sensors that will automatically open the gate without even pressing a button. Many gates close automatically as a vehicle passes.
4. An automated security gate may raise your house's value since it boosts your property's curb appeal and security.
5. Automatic gates are inexpensive to operate since they do not need much energy to activate the motor and move.

Disadvantages of Automatic Gate

1. The installation of electric entryways requires a significant financial investment from purchasing the gate to installing it. 
2. Most firms provide free after-sales support for a while. However, after the time limit has passed, it becomes quite expensive.
3. The automated security gate is significantly reliant on electricity. This implies that when you lose electricity, so does your gate.

FAQs

What is a gate?

A gate or gateway is a point of entry to or from a space enclosed by walls. It helps manage the entry and exit from a property by installing security fences and movable barriers. 

What are the types of gates based on their function?

The types of gates based on their function are.
1. Sliding gate
2. turnstile gate
3. Vertical Pivot gate
4. Swing gate
5. Retractable security gate
6. Automatic gate

What are the advantages of automatic gates?

1. You can install a passcode or a card reader on an automated gate. These systems may improve access control.
2. Automated gates increase security.  You can reduce the danger of crimes like damage and theft since you can manage who has entered your property.
3. Manual gates and garages are inconvenient as they must be pulled to open or close. But in an automatic gate, one must press a button, or there will be sensors that will automatically open the gate without even pressing a button. Many gates close automatically as a vehicle passes.
4. An automated security gate may raise your house's value since it boosts your property's curb appeal and security.
5. Automatic gates are inexpensive to operate since they do not need much energy to activate the motor and move.

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BUILDING SECURITY AND CONTROL SYSTEMS

 

If you’re installing a security gate to control access at your property, the options can feel endless. Choosing the right type of gate is an important decision. So, how do you know which gate is the best investment for your gated property?

Keep reading to learn about the different types of gates, costs, and how to select the right one for your community.

This post covers:

 

What is a commercial security gate?

A commercial security gate is an access control solution designed to manage vehicle and pedestrian access into various types of properties. Commercial gates can be found at office complexes, apartment buildings, gated communities, and industrial facilities.

The first thing to consider when deciding on a commercial security gate is what type of property you have. As you know, traffic at an industrial property is different from an apartment building. Consider how your property intends to use a security gate.

All of these properties, however, have things in common. For example, commercial property traffic can be heavy. There are often many people coming and going throughout the day.

When choosing a security gate for your property, you’ll need to consider the volume of your traffic and time of day.

 

Gates for multifamily housing & residential communities

Multifamily buildings, gated communities, HOAs, and apartment parking garages with gated access need a gate that’s both secure and convenient to open.

So, gated communities will often install an automatic gate. An entry system, such as a gate intercom, triggers the gate opening. This way, residents can use a fob or smartphone to automatically open the gate as they come and go. Visitors can use the intercom to request access from residents.

 

Gates for industrial & retail properties

Commercial properties typically need a gate that’s more durable and quick to open. For example, retail security gates at a warehouse need to open rapidly to allow the constant follow of trucks to pass quickly. To ensure these facilities remain secure, choose a gate made of strong and durable materials such as steel or reinforced aluminum.

 

Watch how ButterflyMX delivery PINs work at your gated community: 

 

5 common types of security gates

Even after you’ve considered your gate needs based on the type of property you own or manage, there are still many different types of security gates to choose from. The biggest differences come down to the size and opening mechanism for each gate.

To control access into your property, there are five main types of security gates available:

 

1. Swing gates

Similar to a door, a swing gate hinges open to give vehicles access. When installing an automatic swing gate, make sure to indicate where cars should stop so they aren’t hit by the gate as it opens. This gate design is also easy to use manually.

Swing gates are designed specifically for vehicles, so you may need a separate option for pedestrians. Loops are often used to detect vehicles at a swing gate.

 

2. Slide gates

Most common at commercial sites, this gate opens by sliding to the left or right. These gates traditionally use wheels to move the gate side to side. Repairing the wheels is the most common maintenance issue on slide gates.

Several types of slide gates are available:

• V groove rolling slide gates: The rolling gate opens by sliding along a track using wheels on the underside of the gate. It’s not ideal for inclement weather conditions as the wheels and track can be blocked with dirt, snow, and other debris.
• Cantilever slide gates: This gate also opens sideways, however, the wheels are located on gate posts instead of a ground track. Because of the enclosed track, the cantilever gate requires less frequent maintenance.
• Overhead slide gates: Just like the cantilever gate, an overhead gate uses an enclosed track to move. The gate slides up on an overhead track. However, the overhead beam does limit gate height, so trucks over 16ft tall may not be able to enter.

 

3. Bi-folding gates

As the name suggests, a bi-folding gate is made of two panels that fold together to open. Some designs include four panels for two-way traffic. Similar to the slide gate, a bi-folding gate can move along an enclosed, ground, or overhead track depending on the design. Enclosed tracks last the longest because they aren’t exposed to the elements.

The biggest benefit of a bi-folding gate is speed. These gates are generally considered the fastest to open and close, making them a great choice for high-traffic areas.

 

4. Vertical gates

All vertical gates open by lifting upwards on a track. This design is more space-efficient than a slide or swing gate because of its vertical movement. Vertical gates open quickly, similar to a bi-folding gate, and can accommodate various opening sizes.

There are two popular vertical gate designs:

• Vertical liftgate: This gate opens by lifting directly overhead. The gate moves along columns using a track. Vehicle height is an important factor to consider when selecting a model to make sure trucks don’t get stuck under the gate. Due to the look of the columns, this gate is almost exclusively used at industrial sites.
• Vertical pivot gate: A pivoting gate opens by rotating 90 degrees upwards. There are no height restrictions with this gate but it does require slightly more space than a lift gate as the panel moves to the side.

 

5. Pedestrian gates

All of the gates we’ve discussed so far are designed for vehicles. But, pedestrians can still enter through a swing or slide gate in case of emergencies. If you’re expecting pedestrians at your gate location, consider installing a separate pedestrian entrance.

Just like a front door, pedestrian gates can be manual or automatic and are best used in conjunction with a wireless intercom system.

The top four pedestrian gate designs are:

• Pedestrian swing gate: Just like swing gates for vehicles, this gate opens on a hinge to allow people through. It takes up space on either side so the gate panel can swing.
• Pedestrian accordion gate: The design of this accordion gate mirrors those used indoors for pets and children. When opened, the gate panel collapses horizontally to one side like an accordion allowing people to enter.
• Pedestrian folding gate: Similar to a bi-folding gate for vehicles, the pedestrian folding security gate includes two panels that fold together to open.
• Pedestrian portal: Chances are you call these “turnstiles.” Seen on subways, the pedestrian portal design spins to admit one person at a time in quick succession.

 

 

What is an electric gate?

An electric security gate is a gate that is powered by electricity to open and close. Also known as automatic opening gates, electric gates do not require human assistance. An electric gate system typically consists of the barrier gate and an automatic gate operator.  Also, it can be installed at all kinds of properties, from small apartment communities to large commercial facilities like airports.

Most electric gates can also be opened manually in the case of a power outage. But, every gate is different so learn about the power options before purchasing.

Pros

• Speed: Electric gates open and close faster on average than manual gates.
• Lower labor costs: Automated systems don’t require staff to manually operate them, which saves money.
• Integrations: Many electric gates can integrate with other security solutions such as surveillance cameras and access control systems.

Con

• Maintenance: Because of the additional technology involved, electric gates require more frequent maintenance.
• Price: The initial cost of an automated gate system is more expensive than a manually operated gate.
• Power: Many electric gates require constant access to electricity and the internet. For this reason, it may not be possible to install at some remote locations.

Just like opening a garage door, some electric gates are opened with an RFID remote. But more advanced main gate security systems use proximity sensors, smartphone apps, and cell phones to open the gate.

 

Watch how ButterflyMX works:

 

Do you need an electric gate?

An automated gate is a must-have for high-volume locations with many cars coming and going at all hours of the day. Installing an electric gate and a gate intercom with a camera is a more cost-effective alternative to staffing a gate attendant 24/7.

 

How much does a gate cost?

The cost of a security gate ranges from $2000 to $12000 and varies based on your location and gate materials. Some retailers include the cost of installation in the price of the gate but many do not.

Weigh your property’s budget against your security needs to get a better idea of what type of security gate you should purchase.

 

Manual gate cost

Manual security gates have simple mechanics. They are cheap to install with just a track or hinge similar to a garage door.

On average, it costs $2500 to purchase a manual security gate. The price can get up to $4000 for more premium materials like weather-proof aluminum and an intercom system.

 

Electric gate cost

Automatic opening gates require additional electronics, unlike a manual gate. As a result, these gates require a larger investment to purchase and install.

An electric gate on average costs $7,000. However, plan to pay a bit more if you would like to include an intercom, keypad, and/or remote control technology.

 

Gate installation costs

In your research, you may come across some gates for purchase that include installation. However, for those that don’t, you should budget around $1900 for installation.

Keep in mind that labor costs can vary by region. Installing a gate can range anywhere from $700 to $3000 depending on local pricing.

 

 

How to choose a gate

With so many options on the market, how do you choose a security gate? First, review your budget. That will give you a great starting point for what types of security gates you should consider.

Prices also vary so much between manual and automatic gates that it’s important to consider all the options. Beyond price, here are other key factors to take into consideration.

Factors to consider when choosing a security gate:

• Space: The size of the opening where you plan on putting the gate will impact which types of security gates you can install.
• Traffic: How much vehicle or foot traffic does your gated entrance have to accommodate? High traffic warrants more durable materials.
• Access control system: Include a video access control system in your gate budget to increase security. With the video component, you can visually confirm that only authorized people are entering the property.

 

Takeaways

• Before choosing a security gate, consider the type of property you have. Commercial, residential, and industrial properties each require unique gates and access control solutions.
• There are five main types of security gates: swing, slide, bi-folding, vertical, and pedestrian gates.
• You can choose an electric gate or a manual gate. Electric gates are more convenient but more expensive.