Gates are fast becoming an indispensable part of overall home and business security, a figurative ‘zipper’ which opens and closes the boundary entrance and exits to any property. They serve as a means of enhancing privacy within a walled property and add a vital element of security by effectively controlling who can and cannot enter the property. Gates have been in existence and an important feature of human civilization for centuries, serving a variety of purposes throughout the ages. Not only do they ensure added security and defence, but also allow for privacy and access control, often in conjunction with either manual or automated access control systems. For those living in residential complexes, automated gate systems and cameras make access and exit points visible from units in a complex which are not within sight of the gate.
Use gates with signage to prevent unwanted visitors from accessing your property
Gates are often a simple means of keeping pets within their specified areas and preventing them from being a nuisance to others or putting themselves in danger – for instance, keeping dogs away from busy main roads. In some instances, gates are intended as a physical barrier to prevent passers-by from using an area of private property as a public walkway, a message often reinforced by signs such as “No thoroughfare”, “Private property” and “No trespassing”. Whilst most people would accept this and find an alternate route, some simply choose to ignore the reason why the gate is there, necessitating the installation of locks and other fixtures and mechanisms to prevent the gate being opened by unauthorised persons. The presence of a gate establishes a sense of exclusivity and restricts entry to authorised individuals, whilst creating a more secure and controlled environment for those behind it.
Technology and automation are becoming essential in gate control
Technology is consistently evolving in gate control. Smart features such as fingerprint or face recognition allow for automated entry and exit, whilst logging the passage of those entering or leaving the area. This is done through sensors, remote control, and a high degree of technological input. On a less ‘AI’ level, intercom systems and cameras which are linked to gate access allow for individual choice as to who enters or leaves their property, which allows for peace of mind. Some gate systems are set up so that sensor pads positioned in-ground close to exit gates allow for vehicles to exit the property automatically as the gates open when the weight of the vehicle activates the sensors. Sensor beams mounted on poles just in front of exit gates act in much the same way but allow for foot traffic to exit when the beam is crossed.
You can go standard or bespoke in the design of your gate
Despite gates being used more often nowadays for security purposes, the aesthetic appeal of a gate does not have to be overlooked, and there are many designs available, and in a wide range of materials and colours. One can opt for a standard ”off-the-shelf” gate, whether automatic or manually operated, which serves its purpose without drawing undue attention, or choose to invest in a bespoke design that is unique to the general architecture of the home. Wooden gates, whilst perhaps not the most practical choice in terms of security and longevity, are still very appealing, particularly when paired with a wooden or stone fence. Wrought-iron gates are also attractive and may have specific features incorporated into their design which add a personal or simply quirky appeal overall.
Want your home to be visible from the street or not? The choice is yours …
If you have a house and garden which are truly worthy of ‘curb appeal’ and of which you are very proud, a gate which allows passers-by to enjoy the view is a lovely way of sharing your efforts with others, without sacrificing your sense of security. For others, for whom privacy is a major factor, a gate which screens you from the street is the ideal solution. Your home is your private domain, and it is where you should feel the safest and most at peace, so a high wall and solid gate would be a perfect choice.
A wall is really of little practical use without a gate
It is easy to combine security features with any gate design, whether these be the prime reason behind the installation of a gate, or a secondary factor, where a gate is simply a further way of marking your space within a wider area when combined with a fence or wall. A wall without a gate is rather like a jacket with no zip or buttons – open and not doing the best job possible. A gate is the finishing touch to a wall, whether for decorative or safety reasons. Whilst creating and installing a garden gate can be a clever DIYer’s project, the design and installation of an entrance gate to the property should be the responsibility of a skilled gate manufacturer and installer. For more articles and names of gate manufacturers and installers in your area, please see Uptasker’s listings.