{"id":6001,"date":"2024-04-22T14:39:43","date_gmt":"2024-04-22T14:39:43","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/listselfstorage.com\/us\/industry-insights\/?p=6001"},"modified":"2024-10-09T14:58:07","modified_gmt":"2024-10-09T14:58:07","slug":"self-storage-gates-your-first-line-of-defense","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/listselfstorage.com\/us\/industry-insights\/self-storage-gates-your-first-line-of-defense\/","title":{"rendered":"Self-Storage Gates \u2013 Your First Line Of Defense"},"content":{"rendered":"


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Gates are among the very first things a potential customer sees upon arriving at your self-storage facility, and therefore they create a lasting impression. In addition, gates are your first line of defense against crime. Think of them as the \u201cbouncer\u201d for your facility. And of course, you want the biggest, baddest bouncer you can find, right? Let\u2019s take a look at the ins and outs of gates \u2013 how they work, what options are best for you, and what to do when they need repair.<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

What Types Of Gates Are Out There?<\/b><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

There are a wide variety of gates, offered by a wide variety of companies. It\u2019s crucial to do your research and arrive at the best solution for your specific needs. For instance, you may know that Access Control Technologies<\/strong><\/span><\/a> has always been a name you can trust for self-storage access control<\/strong><\/span><\/a> and surveillance<\/strong><\/span><\/a> solutions. But ACT also offers the best in gates<\/strong><\/span><\/a> and gate service. So, using ACT as an example, let\u2019s examine the ins and outs of the three most common types of gates in the self-storage industry.<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

Vertical Lift\/Vertical Pivot Gates<\/b><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

The vertical lift gate is the most popular in the self-storage industry, mainly because it has the smallest footprint, taking up roughly a 7\u2019x4\u2019 area on one side of the entrance. This gate pivots up on its heel and completely out of the way, standing up over the operating unit itself. Any size truck can be driven through that opening without the worry of the gate impeding the vehicle. It also opens quicker than any other type of gate, so there is less waiting to enter a facility. And weather is not a factor with the vertical lift or pivot gate since there is no track for the gate to slide along. This style of gate has the greatest longevity, and although it may cost a bit more, its extended life will save money in the long run. And yes, ACT has a large inventory of these gates ready to go, so they can be installed quickly.<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

Cantilever Slide Gates<\/b><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

The cantilever slide gate is a durable, easy-to-maintain gate that slides open to allow access to a facility, and interestingly the gate does not actually sit on a track and slide open and closed. A cantilever gate is supported by rollers that keep the gate suspended above the ground, braced on each side by support posts. The advantage here is that even in snowy climates, the gate can operate properly since it doesn\u2019t come in contact with the track on the ground, so a snow-covered track is not an issue. This type does require more space since the gate slides from one side of the entrance to the other. ACT\u2019s gate manufacturing process ensures fast and reliable turnaround. It\u2019s more cost-effective than the vertical lift or pivot gate, saving you money upfront.<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

V-Track Gates<\/b><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

The V-Track gate is similar to the cantilever gate in that it slides open and closed horizontally, but the V-track gate sits on the track and rolls to an open or closed position. This type of gate is a great option for temperate climates. If snow is common in your area, vertical lift\/pivot or cantilever gates would be a wise option.<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

What About Installation And Service?<\/b><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

Now that you have an idea of the variety of gate options available, let\u2019s take a closer look at what else goes into your gates, and what to do if they need service. Again, using ACT as an example, we will examine the four pillars of gate protection that they strive to master for their customers:<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n