If you’re reading this, then you know that ACT has always been the name you can trust for self-storage access control and surveillance solutions. And you also know by the headline of this blog that we also offer gates and gate service. But that’s just the beginning of this exciting chapter in the world of Access Control Technologies. So, let’s take a closer look at how to make your facility even more secure, thanks to ACT.
First, let’s look at the three different types of gates that ACT provides, since every self-storage facility has unique needs when it comes to gate access.
VERTICAL LIFT/VERTICAL PIVOT GATES
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’x4’ 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 with our large inventory ready to go, these gates can be installed quickly.
CANTILEVER SLIDE GATES
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’t 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. We cut, weld and assemble these gates ourselves, so turnaround is fast and reliable. It’s more cost-effective than the vertical lift or pivot gate, saving you money up front.
V-TRACK GATES
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.
Now that you have an idea of the physical gate options ACT provides, let’s take a closer look at what else makes us unique among gate providers. We like to think there are four pillars of gate protection that ACT strives to master for our customers:
- Manufacturing
- Installation
- Service
- Repair
MANUFACTURING
ACT can have your gates out the door and on their way to you quicker than any of our competitors. And not only does ACT provide you with the absolute best gates available, but we offer services that make the entire process seamless. We can carefully analyze your facility to determine the best type of gate setup for your distinct needs and provide everything required in a fast and efficient timeframe.
INSTALLATION
Full installation is a turnkey service provided by ACT trained professionals. We handle all aspects of installation, from the gate itself, to the gate operator, to all safety devices – making sure you get exactly what you need, how you need it, and when you need it. And we know that you need your gates fast, since your first line of defense is the entrance to your facility. ACT can deliver your gates quicker than anyone, to anywhere in the country.
SERVICE
Accidents happen of course, and we will get to ACT’s solution to that that shortly. But it’s about much more than that “break-fix” mentality – we strive to provide the best preventive maintenance in the industry, so you can get the maximum lifespan out the investment you have made in your gates. If you want your gates to be reliable year in and year out, you need to provide regular care and maintenance to ensure a long life.
ACT offers service agreements that provide regular routine maintenance, twice a year, every six months. These visits include the gates and gate operators, as well as an inventory of the site to make us aware of all of the equipment on-site, so we can check for any shortcomings related to your gate setup.
We also take care of seemingly small issues that if not addressed, could become big problems. Issues such as worn belts, an unbalanced gate, rust, low oil – these are all issues our expert staff will address on a regular basis, keeping your gates running as smoothly as the day they were installed.
REPAIR
In the self-storage industry, where you have a wide variety of people coming and going in all types and sizes of vehicles, accidents happen. So, it’s one thing to have a secure, trustworthy and reliable gate installed by trained professionals – we have you covered there. But what ACT also provides is expert repairs, so if anything does happen to your gate, we can have you back up and running in no time. ACT doesn’t simply sell you gates and move on. We want to be a trusted partner that provides guidance and service and is right there for any “uh-oh” moments you might encounter with regards to your gates.
Beyond these four pillars is one more advantage ACT has over other gate manufacturers and suppliers: integration with our access control and surveillance specialties. Now you can get everything you need in one place, feeling confident that everything will work together seamlessly, providing you with the maximum level of security, no matter your self-storage facility’s size or location.
We believe that if you are going to spend your hard-earned money on something as important as security, you better do it the right way. The experts at ACT are leaders in the industry who strive to do it better than anyone else and have a long-established track record of elite customer service. Our longevity comes from providing more than just products; we provide solutions that last for years to come. Access Control Technologies does it all, we do it with confidence, and we do it with customers like you in mind – every step of the way.
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