Can Electric Gates Be Forced Open?
Very often, electric gates (also known as motorized gates or automated gates) are installed for security. However, as we’ve said before, there is no fence or wall that is completely impervious, and that applies to gates too.
Can electric gates be forced open? If so, what can you do to protect yourself and your property?
Yes, Electric Gates Can Be Forced Open
It’s not easy to force an electric gate open, but it is possible, especially if you are using tools like a car jack or a crowbar.
Then again, electric gates can also be cut using hand or power tools, depending on how they are made and what material they’re made of, and they can usually be driven through with a vehicle. Although the vehicle might not look great afterwards, depending on the type and weight of the gate!
What Makes It Difficult to Force Electric Gates Open
The important thing to note here is that it’s definitely not easy to force electric gates open. You wouldn’t be able to do this if you were just passing by and decided to try on a whim. You will need tools and skills to breach an electric gate.
Electric gate motors and operators have a complex system of gears and levers that are designed to hold gates firmly in place. This means that you would need to exert a greater force on those gears and levers than they’re designed to take – and they are usually designed to take a lot!
What Can You Do to Make Automated Gates More Secure?
No one wants to hear that security gates or fences are not completely secure. We all want to think that once we’ve installed a fence or a gate, that’s it, but unfortunately, fences, gates and walls are a deterrent and delay tactic, and they usually only keep honest people out.
If you want to beef up the security of your automated or electric gates, there are a few options you could consider:
- Installing a fence detection system on your fence and gates that is linked to your alarm system – this would trigger your alarm as soon as your fence or gate is breached
- If you have the climate for it, you can do the same with infra-red beams – but they don’t work as well in wintery climates, where snow might trigger false alarms
- If you don’t have an alarm system, you could also link infra-red beams to a siren and strobe light to alert you when someone has accessed your gate without authorization
It’s always a good idea to speak to the professionals who install your electric gates to find out what kind of resistance to tampering they offer and what your options are to alert you of unauthorized access.
If you are going to install an electric gate, be sure to choose the best possible equipment for the job, and have it installed by a skilled professional. It’s the best way to ensure you get the security you need.