Upgrading Gate Hardware for Safety and Security

Home security involves more than just your house; it includes your personal space as well. Backyards feel like a quiet oasis, but they’re often unprotected from intruders. Fences provide a natural deterrent, and even a closed gate is enough to stop most people.

However, when 30% of burglaries involve unlocked doors and gates, it’s time to pay attention and make a plan. Upgrading your gate hardware is a simple way to increase your home’s safety and security.

Gates, while necessary, are also the weakest point in most fences. Hinges and latches are easier to breach than the fence’s structure, and intruders know to attack the weakest points first. Strengthening your gate is the first line of defense in protecting your personal space.

Choosing the right method for upgrading your gate hardware is essential. There are many factors to consider, and we’re here to take the guesswork out of the process!

The Importance of Upgrading Gate Hardware for Safety and Security

Gates are the primary entry point to most residential outdoor spaces. Unprotected, they represent the softest target for intruders. Even though your fence and gate provide a psychological deterrent to unwanted guests, it won’t stop a motivated intruder if the gate is unlocked or easy to open.

Strong locking mechanisms and hardware send a clear signal to would-be intruders that your space is protected.

Upgraded gate hardware also gives homeowners peace of mind. Knowing that you’ve taken the necessary steps to protect your personal space can reduce anxiety and a sense of safety. You also won’t have to compromise your aesthetic either. Everything from decorative hinges to a modern, streamlined look can include enhanced security features.

By upgrading your gate hardware and hinges, you take your safety and security into your own hands.

Electronic vs. Manual Gate Locks

Locks have come a long way since keyed padlocks were the only gate security option. Now, you can install everything from mechanically coded to biometric locks to protect your property. One thing most complex locks have in common is that they don’t require keys. Instead, they use a code to operate the locking mechanism.

Keyless entry options fall into two main categories: manual and electronic.

Manual Gate Locks

Locks in the manual category stand out because they don’t require electricity to function. The digital mechanical locks from LockeyUSA are a prime example. Contained in a tough metal case, these locks use a push button code to open gates without keys. Simple enough for anyone to operate, they’re reliable and easy to install.

With the LockeyUSA 2835, for example, you get a tamper-proof and easily adjustable manual lock. It features an adjustable latch, thousands of possible codes, and reversible handing.

Electronic Gate Locks

As the name implies, electronic gate locks are powered for enhanced features. Many still use coded operation, but some have Bluetooth® functionality, including fobs and apps. Some also allow the use of biometrics to protect your space further. These enhancements can give you further peace of mind by allowing you to see the status of your gate lock from anywhere.

Even without the enhanced features, an electronic gate lock usually allows you to have different codes for the whole family.

Benefits of Heavy-Duty Hinges for Gate Security

Gates are only as strong as their hinges, no matter how robust the locking mechanism. Standard duty hinges work but are susceptible to tampering and wear and tear.

Heavy-duty hinges use higher gauge steel or modern materials like glass-filled nylon that withstand weather. They’re also designed to handle more usage cycles and are less likely to fail due to corrosion.

Because of their sturdy construction, they can support heavier gates without sagging. Tamper-proof features like non-removable pins and concealed screws make them a strong deterrent against intruders.

 

Nationwide Industries® Cornerstone® 2 hinges offer the most strength and adjustability. Fabricated from glass-filled nylon and corrosion-resistant fasteners, they’re point-load tested to 2000 pounds per pair. Combine that with easy Turn-N-Go™ tension adjustment and they’re an easy choice for reliable, heavy-duty hinges.

How to choose the right gate hardware for security

Choosing the right hardware for your gate is essential when you’re concerned about safety and security. Pay close attention to whether you have an outward or inward swinging gate and whether it’s mounted on the right or left. The wrong gate hardware won’t live up to your expectations and could be the cause of intrusion or injury.

Before shopping around for upgraded gate hardware, consider a few essential factors.

First, the material of your fence and gate will determine what hardware to use. Vinyl and ornamental gate posts are often square-shaped and require hardware compatible with that configuration. Wood and chain link fences may incorporate round metal posts, though some wood fences use wooden posts throughout.

If you’re purchasing individual pieces, start with hinges. They should be designed to handle the weight of your fence and compatible with the mounting method you plan to use. Self-closing hinges can increase security by ensuring your gate isn’t left open inadvertently.

Once you’ve selected the hinges, choose a latch that meets your needs. We’ve discussed many options available, but you may want something more secure for pools. Keyed, top-pull latches or digital mechanical locks are ideal for keeping small children out of the pool area.

Consider the Nationwide Industries® Gate Hardware Kits for easy installation!

Final Gate Hardware Considerations

Locked gates make your home less appealing to burglars and intruders by making it more difficult to enter. As a psychological barrier, they reduce the likelihood that your property becomes a target.

A comprehensive security plan involves many facets, and gate hardware upgrades play an important role. Other factors include strategic lighting, landscaping, and a security system. When taken together, you can create a safer, more secure environment that deters intruders and protects what matters most.

At Nationwide Industries®, we’re constantly innovating to bring our customers the most secure and durable gate hardware on the market. We use modern materials to bring you heavy-duty components that are lightweight and corrosion-resistant.

Check out our entire fence and gate hardware lineup, and find a local dealer today!