Selecting the right security gate is crucial for protecting your business or commercial property. Your gate is your first line of defence, physically stopping unauthorised entry and helping you to relax, knowing full well your premises are protected.
There are several options available for your chosen security gate. The materials, design, and customisation of your gate all come into play here, so today we’ll be comparing the most popular options you’ll encounter on your way to the ideal gate.
Wood, Aluminium, Steel: A Comparison
Wood Security Gates
While wooden gates are classically charming and an ideal fit for rural or residential settings, they’re a difficult sell in urban areas where more robust security is required. Their primary function is to be visually appealing, but they are not strong enough for security..
These are beautiful gates, but for high-security areas, this is not an option we would recommend.
Aluminium Security Gates
Aluminium security gates are popular for their corrosion resistance, as they generally require minimal upkeep. This makes them a popular residential choice, especially because they are lightweight and easy to install.
Unfortunately, their lightweight nature can also make aluminium gates much more vulnerable to forced entry or damage. Aluminium dents or bends more easily than steel, and offers much less protection against tampering or force. If you are sourcing a gate for high-traffic or industrial applications, this might not be the option for you.
Steel Security Gates
Ultimately, for high-risk environments where robust security is essential, the steel security gate is the optimal choice. When built with expertise, steel gates deliver unmatched strength and reliability. They’re long-lasting and extremely difficult to penetrate, withstanding force and harsh conditions for decades with minimal additional care.
On top of that, security gates can be powder-coated and hot-dip galvanised to provide built-in corrosion resistance, bringing them level with aluminium in terms of long-term durability with little to no maintenance.
With the three options above, we have to recommend a high-quality steel security gate for anyone seeking a high-security solution for their business.
Why Steel Gates Are the Most Secure Option
The steel security gate goes beyond brute strength. With the right design and materials, this style of gate sets the benchmark for performance and protection. Here’s what separates a top-tier steel gate from the rest:
Hot-Dip Galvanised Steel
This process involves dipping the gate into molten zinc, creating a weatherproof coating that locks out rust. The rigid steel beneath is also incredibly strong.
In Aotearoa, this matters a lot. Our coastal air and frequent rain can eat away at untreated metal quickly, so galvanising promises a long-lasting defence for both your business and the steel itself.
Fully-Welded Frames
A fully welded frame eliminates weak points where thieves could pry or tamper. Unlike bolted joints, welds hold firm under pressure. Welded construction is vital because it adds structural integrity and resists any forced entry attempts.
Anti-Tamper Features
No matter how strong the gate, there are weak points to every structure. A high-quality steel security gate should feature anti-tamper functionality that compensates for any of these ‘weak points’ that someone might try to take advantage of, turning these points into some of the strongest of the whole structure.
On a security gate, look for concealed hinges, reinforced locks, and a full-steel construction (no aluminium mesh to be cut through). These features make it much harder to cut, pry, or dismantle the gate.
Powder Coating for Longevity
In addition to galvanising, consider powder coating your security gate for enhanced longevity. The coating protects against UV damage and wear, while providing your gate with a polished, professional finish.
Custom Engineering
Finally, we must discuss custom engineering. While buying pre-made gates can be quicker and sometimes cheaper, not every property faces the same threats or conditions. The best security gate will be one designed for your specific access needs, climate, and usage, taking into account the best ways to use the gate while providing security at a vital point on your commercial property.
Ultimately, if you’re looking for the best return on investment in terms of security, a steel security gate wins hands down. It blocks out unwanted vehicles, provides a highly visible deterrent, and offers a significant upgrade to your overall on-site security.
While wooden and aluminium gates might suit certain aesthetic or budget requirements, they fall short when it comes to long-term strength and protection. The steel security gate, particularly one that is hot-dip galvanised, fully welded, and tailored to its environment, effortlessly tops the charts here. If you’re serious about your protection, then a properly engineered steel gate is the smartest choice you can make.
Source a custom steel security gate from Xpanda.
We’re Xpanda, Aotearoa’s leaders in physical security products. If you’re upgrading your security, our in-house experts can design and manufacture a top-tier steel security gate tailored to your specific needs.
Unsure what you need? Get in touch with us to secure expert advice from our friendly and knowledgeable team.