28/01/2025 09:28 AM
Gate Security
Gates are often seen by intruders as the weak link in a home's perimeter security. It is therefore integral to the overall security of the property to ensure gate security is reviewed and the correct steps are taken to protect against opportunist intruders.
Assess the potential threats
It might seem a bit excessive, but conducting a risk assessment of your home is not a bad idea. It will make you think about threats to your home that you would not have usually thought of. Some questions to ask about your garden security
- Have there been any burglaries recently, how important is is that a garden or courtyard gate is secure?
- Does anyone have access to any side of my garden, other than my neighbours?
- What are the current security measures?
- Can the gate security be better?
- Who, if anyone, is likely to get hurt by hazards in the garden (consider the safety of young children, if they can get out onto the road etc.)
Better gate security with gate locks
The most simple and obvious but sometimes overlooked security measure; gate locks, offer an extra layer of protection.
If a garden gate is equipped with only a ring latch that can be opened from both sides, it’s worth considering the installation of a Brenton bolt or slide bolt for added security. Most gates fitted by installers typically include a Brenton bolt or slide bolt, often positioned at the top of the gate. While this setup restricts access from the outside, it’s common knowledge that the bolt can easily be reached and unlocked by leaning over the gate.
This arrangement provides an extra layer of security and convenience for accessing the gate, but it is not foolproof. To enhance security, you could install a second Brenton bolt at the bottom of the gate, making it harder to reach. Alternatively, securing the existing bolt with a sturdy padlock can significantly improve the gate's overall security.
We recommend garden gates are fitted with a lock that is built into the gate like a J-Lock to add a better level of security. Best when fitted during manufacturing, the locking mechanism is installed into the gate itself making it harder to damage and therefore comprise the gate.
Design for gate security
1.8m high gates will offer the best deterrent for intruders. Smaller gates can be easily climbed over and provide a home with no protection. The gates should also be installed at the same height as the fencing to maintain a consistent height across the boundary and avoid creating a step.
Gates should also be installed with the bracing on the inside otherwise the horizontal timber brace can act as a climbing aid. If security is a concern, it is also best to choose vertical board styles of gates, like Featherboard or our Brook garden gate. Vertical pales that make up the gate will not create any foot or hand holds. Solid gates offer high levels of privacy and stop anyone being able to see into your property to spot desirable items.
Gate Privacy
As part of the overall gate design, a boarded gate ensures that whatever lies behind it remains out of view, whether it’s a garden gate or a courtyard gate. This can act as a deterrent to opportunistic thieves by keeping valuables and pets concealed from sight.
However, privacy can have its drawbacks. A gate with solid privacy may provide intruders with the perfect cover, allowing them to remain hidden from passers-by or those nearby. The level of risk this poses depends on the location of the property and its specific security concerns. Maybe a slatted style of gate could be the better option. Semi-solid gates do have their benefits, as the open design gives no opportunities for an intruder to conceal themselves.
Gate security to help keep family members secure
Gate security isn’t just about keeping intruders out; it’s also about ensuring the safety of those inside. Young children, in particular, can be little escape artists, so it’s crucial that gates are installed correctly and regularly checked for any issues to maintain high safety standards. Additionally, consider the height of the gate to prevent pets from jumping over. Taking these factors into account will help keep both your loved ones and pets secure.
An often-overlooked point is whether anyone living on the property might become disoriented or confused, potentially walking off unintentionally. In such cases, securely locked gates can play a vital role in keeping family members safe. However, it’s equally important to consider the implications of gates in the event of a fire or emergency, especially if the gate obstructs a designated fire escape route. Always ensure that gates do not hinder safe and swift evacuation during such critical situations.
Gates should be installed with a 50mm gap underneath for clearance so the gate can open and close without scraping on the ground. If the gap is any larger it could create a space for a child to crawl through, so make sure you check this.
We recommend having both a lock and a Brenton Bolt (slide bolt) installed at the top of the gate, as if ever the gate is left unlocked in the middle, a child can’t reach that the top bolt to open the gate. It also means you have extra protection for your property if one lock is forgotten.
Extra gate security measures
If the threats are higher to your property, there are other more visual deterrent security measures. Security toppings, like a security comb can be fitted on top of the gate to stop anyone climbing over. Please be aware that you should also fit warning signs on or near the gates to warn of danger.
We manufacture a range of garden gates that are secure and well built.
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This blog was originally written in June 2021 and updated in January 2025