In an era where security and safety are paramount concerns, the need for effective security barriers has never been greater. Security gates have emerged as a prominent and indispensable feature in safeguarding residential and commercial spaces. In 2023, it is crucial to stay updated on the latest advancements and trends in security gates. This comprehensive guide aims to equip you with valuable insights and knowledge about “all things security gates”. Whether you are a homeowner or business owner, this guide will empower you to make informed decisions and choose the right security gate solution that aligns with your specific needs. Join us as we explore the aspects shaping the world of security gates in 2023.
What are security gates?
Security gates are physical barriers designed to control access to a specific area, such as residential complexes, commercial buildings, or public facilities, with the primary purpose of enhancing security and regulating the movement of people. These gates are typically made of sturdy materials like steel or aluminium, and they often incorporate additional security features like locks, access control systems, surveillance cameras, and intercoms. By restricting entry to authorized individuals, security gates help deter unauthorized access, prevent potential threats, and provide a sense of safety for the protected area. They are an integral part of overall security systems and play a crucial role in safeguarding people and property.
Where can security gates be used?
Security gates can be used in a variety of settings to control access and enhance security. Some common places where security gates are employed include:
- Residential buildings: Standalone houses, gated communities, housing estates, and apartment complexes often utilize security gates to restrict access to residents, authorized personnel, and invited guests, thereby ensuring a higher level of safety and privacy. Trellidor security gates can be custom-made to fit doors, windows, passages, patios, hatches and most other building openings, keeping them safe from intrusion.
- Commercial buildings: Office complexes, industrial facilities, and business parks may incorporate security gates to regulate entry for employees, visitors, and delivery vehicles, helping to prevent unauthorized access and protect valuable assets.
Who can use security gates?
Security gates can be used by a variety of individuals and entities depending on the specific context and purpose. Here are some key users of security gates:
- Residents: Security gates can be used by homeowners who prioritize safety and security for their residential properties. These gates can be designed to enhance home security and provide an additional layer of protection against intrusions. Homeowners who wish to secure their homes can opt to install security gates at their entry points, such as front doors, back doors, patio doors, or any other vulnerable access points.
- Commercial key individuals: Commercial security gates are commonly used by property owners & managers in businesses of all sizes and types, including retail stores, restaurants, office buildings, warehouses, and industrial facilities. These gates help businesses control access to their premises, protect their assets, and ensure the safety of employees, customers, and valuable inventory.
Types of security gates & their locks
Steel or aluminium sliding security gates are usually fitted with either a slam lock or a dead lock. These are two different lock types, each with their own features and benefits. Take a look at the differences explained here so that you can decide which is best for your needs.
What is a slam lock security gate?
A slam lock gate is a security gate that locks automatically when you slam it shut. The concept of a security door that locks by closing it with some force is not new. It has been around since the original Yale lock that was invented in the late 1800’s in America, so it is a relatively old system.
What is a dead lock security gate?
A dead lock gate is a secure gate that requires a key to open and close it. These locks were also invented in the 1800’s, this time by Jeremiah Chubb in England, who together with his brother founded the Chubb company, well known for their safes and locks.
Difference between slam lock & dead lock
A slam lock can be slammed shut and locks automatically. You’ll find this type of lock fitted to steel and aluminium security gates that slide open and closed. Some slide inside a top and bottom track and some have no tracks supporting them at all. A deadlock is locked by turning a key in the lock and can be fitted to a similar type of security gate.
Trellidor manufactures steel and aluminium security gates with a full, four-sided frame to increase the strength of the gates. The frame also helps to make the security gate open and close smoothly and easily.
There is a misconception in the marketplace that slam locks are always the best for steel and aluminium security gates. But realistically, it is highly unlikely that you’ll ever need to slam a lock in an emergency.
Trellidor receives regular break-in reports from their franchises in communities around the country. These show that home invaders are more likely to get into your home through a door that’s left unlocked, or they try to break in through an unsecured door or window.
For this reason, it is better to have a strong dead lock. Be vigilant about locking security gates at all times, especially if you leave windows and doors open for fresh air.
If customers prefer to specify a slam lock, they can rest assured that the Trellidor slam lock has a dead lock action to securely lock the gate too.
Slam lock security gates benefits
Although not generally as strong as dead locks, slam locks do have some useful features.
- Slam locks are quick to lock.
- They can be primed and made ready for locking at any time.
- You don’t need a key to lock the security gate.
- The Trellidor slam lock is patented and very strong.
Dead lock security gates benefits
Some sliding security gates are fitted with two locks and two different keys, which is slightly inconvenient when you’re in a hurry. The better option is a dead lock that only need one key in one keyhole, making it quick and easy to use, like the Trellidor patented deadlock.
The dead lock fitted to Trellidor Retractable sliding security gates has the following benefits:
- It locks securely with a single throw or turn of the key.
- It locks in several places in the lock stile, not just in one place, adding to its strength.
- It is a stronger design than a slam lock.
- No activation is needed to lock the gate.
- There is no danger of locking yourself out or of children accidently locking themselves in a room or outside the home.
Which is better between slam lock & dead lock
At first glance the slam lock seems ideal, but it also has its problems. For example, it’s so easy to lock yourself out accidentally, leaving you stranded on the wrong side of the gate. Besides, 99% of the time you’ll be locking the gate just as a security precaution, not in an emergency.
With slam locks, it is also far too easy for a child to lock themselves in or out by mistake, with you on the other side of the gate wondering how to get it open to rescue the child.
Design tests carried out by the Trellidor Research and Development team have proven that the dead lock is the best defence against a determined attack on the lock by home invaders. The slam lock designed locks are traditionally weaker and more vulnerable under attack than the deadlock systems.
Trellidor does install a patented slam lock on sliding security gates at the client’s request but recommends the dead lock as the preferred system. The Trellidor slam-lock option incorporates a dead-lock system, which is activated by using the key after the gate has been slammed shut. This ensures that the gate is securely locked.
Sliding security gates with slam lock or dead lock
Retractable or sliding security gates with either a slam lock or dead lock are an excellent choice in terms of home safety. They can be fitted to windows as well as doors and here’s why they’re a good option for your home:
- Steel or aluminium sliding gates are cost-effective security. Balance the cost of installing them against the many years they’ll keep you safe and you’ll see why.
- Custom-made sliding gates provide a high level of protection when they’re closed and locked, even when windows and doors are open.
- The level of protection does, of course, depend to some extent on the strength of the lock, either slam lock or dead lock.
- When fitted to windows, sliding security gates can be unlocked and opened for easy window cleaning.
- As window protection, sliding security gates provide an escape route in an emergency when doors can’t be used to get out.
- Sliding gates do not require electricity, like automated security, so they’re always there to protect you even during power outages.
Maintenance Guide
If you clean and maintain your Traditional Trellidor security gates regularly they will slide easily and last longer, keeping you safe for many years. Cleaning and maintenance is also a condition of the warranty supplied with the slam lock or dead lock security gate when it is fitted by the Trellidor installer.
Cleaning Method
- Use a premium quality (salt free) car wash liquid, mixed with water as per manufacturer’s directions and a soft cotton cloth to clean the entire burglar gate.
- Hard to reach areas of the sliding security gate may require the use of a soft nylon bristle brush such as a dishwashing brush.
- Dry the security gate with a soft cotton cloth or chamois.
- Next, apply Trellidor lubricating spray (available from your local franchise) to all moving parts, especially all hinge points inside the channel sections and into the top tracks of the burglar gate.
- Shake the can of lubricating spray well, apply to a clean cotton cloth and wipe the entire retractable security gate, or spray directly onto it from a distance of about 20cm.
- Wipe the excess residue off the security gate. The lubricant will form a protective barrier against moisture and contamination by airborne pollutants.
- A second application may be required if the burglar gate has stood for too long without being lubricated and has become stiff, dry and difficult to operate.
Special Notes
- Never use abrasive cleaners, detergent-based cleaners, or solvent based cleaners like scouring agents, dishwashing liquids, washing powders, thinners etc. These could adversely affect the expected life of the sliding security gate.
- Do not spray into the keyhole of the dead lock or slam lock cylinder where the key fits!
- Remember to read the warnings on the lubricating spray label as the product is highly flammable, must not be ingested and is irritating to eyes and skin.
Interesting Facts about Traditional Trellidor Gates
- Trellidor has manufactured sliding security gates for over four decades.
- Trellidor is the only South African sliding security barrier manufacturer to achieve international ratings.
- Traditional Trellidor Security gate locks are the strongest on the market and specially made for our gates.
- Each Trellidor trellis gate has a computer cut key with a unique identifying number for added safety.
- The Trellidor built-in quality control system checks Traditional Trellidor Security gates during every step of their journey to your door.
- Our security gate manufacturing process contributes towards the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals.
- With Trellidor you can choose between steel or aluminium Traditional Trellidor Security gates.
- We fit dead locks into our sliding security gates because they are strong and robust.
Find out more about the Trellidor deadlock system by contacting your nearest Trellidor outlet.
Take a look at sliding security gates fitted with dead locks