Driveway barrier gates are primarily used for controlling traffic in commercial buildings and public parking lots. However, you can also install one for your home. It takes up minimal space and serves as a barrier for unauthorized vehicles.
Below are the six top benefits of installing a driveway barrier gate for your home.
1. Promote Security
If you are tired of people randomly driving into your property or driveway, consider installing a barrier gate to deter them. Barrier driveway gates have a durable and sturdy construction that can stop vehicles from entering your property. Some manufacturers incorporate anti-collision mechanisms on the barrier arm to prevent it from breaking.
2. Suitable for Minimal Space
One of the top benefits of barrier gates is that they take up minimal space. They have a simple design constituting a pivoted barrier bar on one side. It swings up and down to open and close.
3. Easy to Operate
Driveway barrier gates are operated manually or automatically. Both options offer a smooth operation. Automatic driveway gates are motorized to power the arm movement and connected to a power source, either electricity or solar energy. Their automated design means the driver does not have to step out of the vehicle to open and close the driveway gate.
You can program them with a license plate recognition system whereby a camera or reader reads the vehicle’s license plate and swings open if granted access. The barrier is activated with a push button or remote controller for manual control. In case of a power shortage, you can easily control the driveway gate manually.
4. Affordable and Cost Effective
Unlike conventional driveway swing gates and slide gates, driveway barrier gates are more affordable. They cost less upfront in installation and maintenance. They have few moving parts, which makes installation relatively easy and the gate highly reliable. Also, in case of a breakdown, it is easy to troubleshoot and repair.
Automatic barriers are particularly cost-effective as you do not require a guard or attendant at the gate to open and close it. Therefore, you save on ongoing salary payments. Or, your security guard can focus on other security aspects of your property.
5. Can Be Integrated with Other Security Systems
You can integrate automatic gate barriers with a wide range of security, visitor management, and access control systems. For example, you can incorporate CCTV, intercom system, remote control, entry keypad, etc.
Some manufacturers offer additional features like traffic control lights, obstruction sensors, and speed bumps. Also, you can install a control button inside the house to enable you to open it for your visitors remotely.
6. Customizable
Driveway barriers are highly customizable. They come in various beam sizes and colors to suit your needs and preference. Typically, the minimum beam length is 6 ft. You can install a taller and longer one for bigger vehicles or switch from a single gate to a double gate. If your gate area has limited overhead clearance, you can adjust the arm articulation to fit the maximum height accordingly.
You can also choose between leftward and rightward movement of the arm. In addition, there is an option for a folded arm barrier, straight arm, and fence barrier gate. You can program open and close times for slide gates to your preference, with speeds up to less than one second.
Things to Consider When Choosing a Driveway Barrier Gate
Before choosing a driveway barrier gate, there are a few things you will want to keep in mind as you narrow down your choices.
How Will You Be Operating the Gate?
Choose between a manual and automatic gate. You will need to connect the security gate to an electric power source or solar panels for automatic operation. Solar panels give you an option for a battery backup to ensure that the safety gate operation remains automated even in extremely cold weather.
Features
Consider if you want to integrate the barrier gate with other security features such as access control and intercom. It is best to source all the parts and install them at the same time as the security gate. It saves you time and additional costs of hiring different contractors at different times.
Size
The appropriate size of the gate will depend on the typical size of cars and the space available in your driveway. Have a barrier gate installer assess your property and advice on the best installation location and size of the gate.
Frequency of Operation
The frequency of operation of a barrier gate determines its duty cycle. Typically, homes have low operational volume. However, if you will be using your gate more frequently than usual for one reason or another, choose a medium to heavy-duty barrier gate.
Your Budget
Depending on size and features, there are a variety of barrier gates at different price points. Conduct thorough market research to find barrier security gates that fit your budget and cater to your needs. Remember to factor in installation costs in your budget.
Motor Type
Automatic driveway gates are either fitted with a hydraulic or electromechanical motor. Hydraulic motors are highly reliable and require minimal maintenance as long as they are correctly installed. However, an automatic driveway gate can be problematic in the cold season as the hydraulic oil tends to thicken. On the other hand, electromechanical units are quieter but slower. They are also easy to maintain.
Is a Driveway Barrier Gates a Good Fit Your Home?
Driveway barrier gates are increasingly becoming a preferred option for homes. They are affordable, easy to maintain, and operate. They are versatile and can be used in commercial and residential properties in low or high-traffic areas.
You can also integrate them with a wide range of gate security features for enhanced security and operational convenience. Whether automated or manual, you do not require a security guard or gate operator, nor do you have to step out of the car to open or close the gate.
If you are considering installing a driveway barrier gate at your home, be sure to consider all the potential benefits before making a decision. And if you have any questions about installation or options, feel free to contact us. We would be happy to help you make the best decision for your home.
