In this article we will be covering gate hardware for temporary fencing such as gate closers, gate locks and other security and safety hardware you might want to consider.
What is temporary fencing?
Temporary fencing is fencing that is used for short periods of time. It is therefore not permanent and not meant to be a long-term solution for security.
As it isn’t a permanent fixture, temporary fencing is often made from more cost-effective materials like galvanised steel to BS EN 10244-2 standards.
This type of fencing is used for anything from crowd control at concerts to temporarily securing a building site or new property development.
You can get more information on different types of temporary fencing here.
Gate hardware for temporary fencing
Although a temporary solution, security is still a high priority. Especially at new home developments to prevent vandalism and trespassing.
To help cater to this market, we have developed cost effective gate hardware for temporary fencing solutions.
Gate closer for temporary gate
A closed gate is vital for security and the same is true for busy construction sites using temporary fencing. With numerous workers going in and out of the gates per day, it is easy for just one to forget to shut the gate properly. This is an irresistible temptation for trespassers looking to get their hands on some tools.
Our light duty, spring gate closer (LDSGC) is the answer to your problems. Already a very popular product for the temporary fencing industry, this closer is easy to install on the temporary gates and is also cost-effective. It is supplied assembled to be welded onto the gate and then galvanised and/or painted as part of the gate.
It is common to see chains and padlocks securing temporary gates, but sometime you want a more sturdy solution. You may know the Superlatch, but did you know we designed it to provide a better lock solution for temporary gates?
The Superlatch has keypad access, sending a signal of a secure site. From the inside, the lock featured a latch and integrated shroud. As the lock is surface-fixed, it will also be simple to install. If you want to see how easy it is to install, check out our video here.
Other gate hardware for construction site gates
When walking around construction sites, you unfortunately often see gates off their hinges. This can either be because the hinges have broken or been broken. A loose gate leaf can be a health and safety risk for the crew even if the gate isn’t a heavy wrought iron gate.
For your larger entrance temporary gates, you might want to consider installing a gate safety cable to prevent the gate from falling on crew or machinery should the top hinge break. For this, we offer a cost-effective and efficient gate restrainer.
Another issue is it being easy to lift the gate off its hinges if using hook and eye hinges. With a light gate, this will be no problem. You can therefore either invert the top hinge (and risk more stress on the load bearing bottom hinge) or you can install some security collars. The SCP will slot onto the hinge and sit on top to secure it.
Temporary fence gate hardware
Temporary fencing deserves the right gate hardware to secure it. If you are interested in solutions for temporary fencing, get in touch with our sales department for their advice.
By Ian Hetherington | Aug 16, 2022 | Uncategorized
Whether your customer wants a gate for security reasons or safety, chances are they want it to look good too. In recent years, composite gates have been gaining popularity. Thanks to the low maintenance and high durability, more and more homeowners choose composite gates. We go through your options regarding locks for composite gates. We’ve […]
Gate tethers work as a safety cable to help prevent gates falling. They are recommended to use in order to fulfil the requirements of the DIN EN 12604 regulation to keep your gates from falling over if the top hinge was to fail. Unfortunately, every major storm leaves at least a few sites like this one where […]
This month, we’ve invited one of our distributors to share their expert knowledge for our first ever guest blog. In the blog below, First Fence will be sharing their top tips and knowledge about school fencing and gates. Why fencing and gates around schools is so important When it comes to schools, perimeter fencing and […]
Guest blog: What is crucial to consider before getting an electric gate system?
Electric gate systems are convenient for the users. With an automated gate and lock system, all you have to do is drive up to the gate, activate a fob and like magic, it will open.
Installing an electric gate system shouldn’t be taken lightly though. These are complex systems and it is important to consider how you will use the gate before you go all out on electric.
We have invited electric gate experts Rolling Center to share a few considerations to make before you get an automated gate. Have a read and learn more below.
Electric gate systems can be installed on most existing gates and provide many benefits such as increased security and convenience of access to a property.
Installing electric gates can increase property value and improve the first impression. Whether to enhance privacy, deter trespassers or ease of controlling access.
Before making the decision there are many factors to consider if this choice is right for you. We will cover a few of them in this blog to help you make an informed decision!
Can I install my own electric gate system?
It is also important to think about whether you want to install the electric gate yourself or hire a professional. While it may seem like a good idea to try and do it yourself, installing an electric gate requires specialised knowledge and skill that only a professional can provide. So if you are unsure about what kind of electric gate would best suit your needs, it is highly recommended that you get in touch with a professional for advice and installation services.
How do I get power to my gate?
You need to have a power source near the gate such as a transformer and this is done by having cabling to the gate prior to installing an electric motor that signals the gate to open and close. This may cause disruption to the garden or driveway at the property entrance if there isn’t already any power there.
Before choosing any cabling or starting groundwork you must decide on an automation kit for the style of gate you have.
Depending on the size and weight this will narrow down the options. There are different voltage kits available, 24v, 36v and 230v. We would normally recommend 24v as this system has more features than 230v, such as altering the speed of the gate as well as health and safety compliance. However, if you have a gate heavier in weight or large in size a 230v may be more suitable. Always speak to a professional installer who can carry out a site assessment and quote for the correct specification.
Once you have your electric gate system installed you may want to further improve the security of your property, and a lock will precisely do this. A locked gate helps deter away unwanted visitors and prevents unauthorised access. Gate locks are an important addition to your home, as most residential areas come with limited street parking that must be shared by all residents. By installing a lock on your gate, you will limit parking access to those who live on your property, as well as discourage trespassers who may attempt to park in front of your driveway or entranceway.
When it comes to choosing a lock there are two main kinds: manual and electric. Manual locks require manual operation in order to release the gate to open whereas electric locks require programming and electric connection to the automation.
Manual locks require you to unlock them before they will open or close, so oftentimes it can be faster to press a transmitter to release an electric lock rather than having to get out of the car and manually open your gate. An electric lock is the best solution for ease of access to incorporate with your automatic gate.
However, both types of security solutions can provide an effective way to secure your property. Electric gates are a more expensive solution, so you could install a manual lock if budget is a factor and provide a more traditional approach to security.
Gates that are left open aren’t only a security or safety risk. An uncontrolled, open gate blowing open and closed in the wind can damage the gate hardware and the gate frame itself. The best way to avoid this is of course to ensure the gate is closed every single time after use. But we […]
Not sure what gate locks with code or key are? Or what the difference between bolt-on locks and mortice locks is? It can be confusing as there are a few different types of gate locks depending on different categories. Read on below as we cover: Different types of gate locks based on installation: Locks can […]
As national lockdowns were removed, ‘staycations’ became increasingly popular in the UK. Airbnb’s boomed and many found a way to use that old shed or annex as a source of income. It also meant that combination gate locks found a new purpose: securing the main garden gate entrance. When you think of a garden gate, […]
The video below shows how to successfully disassemble each of our Superlock digital keypad locks mentioned above. Our technical manager Ian then goes through the actual code changing process and how to assemble each lock again.
You might have had the pleasure of meeting our superhero, the Superlock – a lock that’s been busy keeping gates safe and helping gate professionals from all across the globe. But as the reach expanded to new territories and the challenges grew with it, it was time to upgrade the armour. So, without further ado […]
What are the benefits for a keyless combination lock for wooden gates? Keyless entry for wooden gates is increasingly popular for gate owners. Door locks with a combination code are frequently used internally in buildings, for convenience and also security. There are a number of advantages of this method of securing an outdoor point of entry, […]
It can be difficult to choose the right gate lock solution for your project, and even more so when there are many similar products on the market. At Gatemaster we always want to make life easier for gate manufacturers, which is why we’ve developed several gate lock ranges with this in mind. Two of our […]
For some of our locks, we offer a right-handed or a left-handed version and the lock handing you choose depends on whether your gate is right or left-hand hung.
It has keypad access on the outside and a handle on the inside.
Depending on how your gate is installed, you will need either a right- or a left-handed lock to ensure the keypad is on the outside when fitted.
If you choose the wrong lock handing, you will end up with a lock that has a handle on the outside, allowing anyone to enter.
To avoid this, you need to find out the correct lock handing and we are here to help.
Step 1: Look at your gate from the outside (secure side) or visualise it if the gate is yet to be installed.
Step 2: Determine if your hinges are on the left- or right-hand side of the gate.
Step 3: The side that your hinges are on equals the lock handing. For example, if your gate hinges are on the right, you will need a right-hand lock (and vice versa).
So, taking the BDGS single sided digital lock as an example again, if your hinges were on the right as viewed from the outside of the gate, you will need the BDGS1030R (10-30 mm box section) or BDGS4060R (40-60 mm box section).
Watch our video guide:
Looking at your gate and the position of hinges, you can determine the handing of your gate and your gate lock.
Examples of right-handed gates:
Right-handed lock
Right-handed lock
Examples of left-handed gates:
Handing of double-leaf gates:
Assuming we are standing on the outside, as the hinges of the leaf with the lock on are on the left, they need a left-handed lock.
Assuming we are standing on the outside, as the hinges of the leaf with the lock are on the right, this gate will need a right-handed lock.
So, remember the above guide when ordering any of the below locks as these are all handed locks:
Secured By Design (SBD) is the official police security initiative started by the UK Police service. It was started in 1989 after a housing crisis started a development boom of low quality and low security houses. The rise in burglaries was alarming and the Secured By Design programme was started to help house developers and owners find secure options for doors, windows, and entrances. The programme aims to reduce crime by offering clear standards for more secure options.
Initially working towards raising the standards for new house builds and developments, the Secured By Design standards are now involved from the beginning and advise on products and layouts to increase security. This is done by incorporating crime prevention techniques in the surrounding areas and recommending thoroughly tested products.
This includes gate systems, some of which have an Secured By Design recommendation. For gate locks, Secured By Design means the lock and gate system is tested to the Secured By Design standards.
Can I get Secured by Design gate locks?
This brings us to the question of the hour: Are the Gatemaster locks tested to Secured By Design standards?
Unfortunately, it is a question that is easy to answer, because no they aren’t.
As it stands, Secured By Design doesn’t certify stand-alone gate locks such as our bolt-on, weld-in or surface fixed locks. They have to be part of a complete gate system that is being tested to the SBD standards. It is therefore very difficult to get a Secured by Design gate lock and it would only be valid if it was installed on the specific gate system it was tested to.
In general, retrofittable gate hardware doesn’t conform to Secured By Design as these standards either applies to a complete system (the integrity of the complete system is tested) or padlocks (the integrity of the mechanism has been tested).
What you shouldn’t do
There will be many benefits to getting a Secured by Design gate lock and gate system and most likely you will be searching the market for one that conforms. These can come at a high price point, and if you don’t have the budget what are your options?
It might be tempting to use an internal door lock that conforms to Secured By Design and install on your external gate. Although this will technically work, you are left with a lot of unknowns about the anti-corrosion properties of the lock. You also have to remember that the locks have been tested as part of a complete door set and therefore the lock itself doesn’t technically comply.
When exposed to the outdoors, will it be suitable for the elements or rush within a few weeks? Although SBD compliant to begin with, a rusty lock will quickly be a security risk.
Some questions to consider before going with an internal Secured By Design door lock on a gate system:
Are the insides stainless steel?
What happens if installed on a timber gate and the softwood swells?
What happens when it is consistently wet?
It is possible to get SBD locks as part of a gate or door set-up that are more suited for outdoor use, but this is not our area of expertise.
However, without giving away too much, we are currently looking into the process of our gate locks becoming SBD compliant and testing them with gate systems from known suppliers in the industry.
Although not SBD tested yet, we do however manufacture locks that are highly suitable for external use, like the Superlock or Select Pro gate lock ranges. If you want a gate lock that can handle the elements, get in touch and our team can guide you.
You might also be interested in…
By Ian Hetherington | Apr 19, 2022 | Uncategorized
Not sure what gate locks with code or key are? Or what the difference between bolt-on locks and mortice locks is? It can be confusing as there are a few different types of gate locks depending on different categories. Read on below as we cover: Different types of gate locks based on installation: Locks can […]
When you send your child to the local playground, you trust that every precaution has been made to ensure your child’s safety. When it comes to the surrounding fence and gates, you need to incorporate certain safety measures like the right type of fencing and consider features like self-closing gates. The Royal Society for Prevention […]
Whether your customer wants a gate for security reasons or safety, chances are they want it to look good too. In recent years, composite gates have been gaining popularity. Thanks to the low maintenance and high durability, more and more homeowners choose composite gates. We go through your options regarding locks for composite gates. We’ve […]
Gate tethers work as a safety cable to help prevent gates falling. They are recommended to use in order to fulfil the requirements of the DIN EN 12604 regulation to keep your gates from falling over if the top hinge was to fail.
Unfortunately, every major storm leaves at least a few sites like this one where a gate is torn off its hinges, which often leads to severe damages and liabilities. So we went ahead and developed the Gate Restrainer, which will be there when it’s needed, but will remain (nearly) invisible otherwise.
The Gate Safe organisation recommends a gate tether as a great alternative to increase safety in the “single point of failure”, i.e., the hinges. This is following the mandatory rule (British Standard EN 12604:2017) that requires three hinges or the use of a gate safety device on all new swing gates.
There are a few benefits to using a gate tether instead of three hinges:
Gate tethers are visually unobtrusive but increase safety.
Some gate tethers can be retrofitted.
Gate tethers won’t cause binding like using three hinges can.
How is the gate tether constructed?
When we first designed the gate restrainers we wanted them to be as simple and functional as possible. We like to compare it to an airbag: neatly tucked away, hoping that you will never need it, but there to save you from a disaster.
That’s why we designed the gate restrainer from flexible braided stainless-steel wire. Maximum strength combined with added durability gives you a gate safety cable you can rely on.
The main benefit of the GRS Gate Restrainer is that it doesn’t interfere with your carefully powder coated gate posts.
It is installed by drilling just two 13mm holes – one in the gate and one in the gate post. Once the ends have been pushed through and the plastic bushes fitted, it stays hidden in your gate post and slides out when the gate moves, allowing for a 180° opening.
Our gate safety cables, GRS, are made from:
Braided stainless steel wire.
Heavy-duty stainless-steel stop ends.
Stainless steel top ends.
Plastic bushes to protect your gate from scratches.
The security
Given its slim appearance one might think that this restrainer is a ‘weakling’, but that couldn’t be further from the truth. Thanks to the braided stainless-steel wire, the GRS is a mighty force.
We have developed two versions to allow for a wider range of applications:
The GRS-03 can handle gates of up to 260 kg with its 3mm thick wire.
The GRS-04 can go up to 500 kg thanks to its 4 mm thick wire and the reinforced plates.
But don’t just take our word for it. Both versions of the GRS have been through a rigorous testing cycle to ensure their safety and functionality when disaster strikes.
Next to that, every restrainer is tested before shipment in accord with our strict quality control standards.
You can read the test results in the below test reports.
There have been cases where gate installers received large fines after the gate they installed fell over (FOBS 108, May 2020). Naturally this is a situation you want to avoid.
But more importantly, installing a simple safety device like a gate safety cable can be the difference between a gate that just needs to be re-fitted and a terrible accident. With the GRS you are out of excuses.
It can be fitted to any metal swing gate in minutes.
It doesn’t deflect from the craftmanship of your gate.
Anyone with a drill can install it.
It doesn’t cost the world.
At Gatemaster, we make products that will help gate manufacturers and installers all over the world create great products that work well and keep their customers safe and happy.
When you send your child to the local playground, you trust that every precaution has been made to ensure your child’s safety. When it comes to the surrounding fence and gates, you need to incorporate certain safety measures like the right type of fencing and consider features like self-closing gates. The Royal Society for Prevention […]
Usually when you are dealing with gate and fence panels every day, ‘compact and concise’ are probably not the first words that come to mind. Indeed, loading or unloading a custom-made gate or a stack of panels could be a project on its own. With our gate hinge, the Superhinge, Hill Trident were able to […]
We love to share our knowledge and experience with our customers, but we also learn a great deal from all of them. So was this blog post actually inspired by them. Following the recent thefts of farm gates around Bognor Regis, our local partners pointed out that our SCP push-fit security collar offers a great […]
Guest blog: Which fencing and gates should I choose for my school?
This month, we’ve invited one of our distributors to share their expert knowledge for our first ever guest blog. In the blog below, First Fence will be sharing their top tips and knowledge about school fencing and gates.
Why fencing and gates around schools is so important
When it comes to schools, perimeter fencing and gates have a huge role to play in providing safety and security.
Not only does a fence define the school boundary and create a visual distinction between public and private property, but it prevents unauthorised entry to the grounds, protects the pupils, staff and visitors, and deters theft and anti-social behaviour.
Choosing the right security fencing and gates for your school is important, read on to find out all your options!
What do I need to consider when choosing security fencing for my school?
What are your key boundary requirements?
You will need to consider how large the school area is, how many meters of fencing you need, as well as key access points within the fence line.
Do you require wide vehicle access points for buses or delivery vehicles, secure car parking for staff and multiple entrances for foot traffic? Also, consider if you need to go that extra mile and purchase gate hardware too, adding that extra security and theft deterrent, designating staff-only areas of the premises.
Possible risks?
Where do you think intruders might gain access? This is something you need to consider when looking at the different security fencing types. Have you secured the car parking and bike storage areas?
Quality and Maintenance
When you have a budget to stick to, it is crucial you make sure the fencing and gates are cost effective. However, finding the balance between the cost and the quality is of key importance.
Check that the products are manufactured from high quality materials and have some great customer imagery for you to see what the products look like in situ.
What does the fencing and gates look like?
As you’re securing a school, you still want the area to look appealing. Whether this is fencing that has been powder coated alternative colours to keep the fun and perhaps portray a smarter finish, or you select a fencing type that has better visibility, there are lots of options available through First Fence, including the possibility of having a custom RAL colour to match your school colours.
What fencing type should I choose?
So, we’ve explained different areas for you to consider when selecting your perimeter fencing, but now you need to know what options are available to you… Find our recommendations below.
Mesh fencing is a versatile security fencing, due to the choice of mesh types. Mesh fencing and gates are a strong, reliable security option that is made from high quality steel and then galvanised to prevent rust. An additional protective layer can be added with powder coating, which we can offer in a range of colours.
Most commonly used to set up a perimeter around school areas, game courts and sports stadiums, mesh fencing is a robust option that maintains a stylish and aesthetically pleasing design. Especially with the option to powder coat to your school colours.
Safe Top Mesh Fencing – Featuring a ‘rolled down’ top that contains no sharp edges, it’s a safer option when considering security fencing, making it an ideal solution for schools and play areas.
868 Rebound Mesh Fencing – Specifically designed to be used around multiple use game areas, as it can withstand the impact from a ball delivered at force and deflect it back into play.
V Mesh Fencing – Featuring a ‘v’ shape within its design, increasing stability of the panels, and making it difficult to climb, whilst being more child friendly.
Twin Mesh Fencing – Available in two varieties: 656 and 868. This refers to the diameters of the mesh wires within the fencing panels, making the fencing strong and excellent at combatting vandalism and theft.
Stripe Mesh – With a diverse selection of properties that can benefit a range of business needs, stripe mesh is suitable for a variety of environments, and with a climb deterrent design, as well as anti-tamper elements it helps increase the security line for your fencing.
Prison Mesh Fencing – The mesh wires are positioned close together to prevent people from fitting their fingers through the apertures, it is incredibly strong and cannot be cut.
Securifor 358 Mesh Fencing Kit (SR1 Rated) – A very secure yet discreet mesh system that is a good alternative to palisade fencing when you need a more aesthetically pleasing system. This product is SR1 (A1) rated, meaning that it can withstand a 1 minute attack time using tool kit A which includes prybars, pliers and levers.
With First Fence providing several types, widths and heights, that are in stock, it’s never been easier to order!
Don’t forget your gate(s)!
Including a mesh gate with your fencing system is crucial, as they provide an access point. As well as our twin and prison mesh gates that are available in a variety of heights and widths, we have our manual swing mesh gates and our automatic sliding gates too!
It is cost-effective, strong and long-lasting, which can be customised to fit almost any school area and match the aesthetic. An added bonus is that it is easy to install!
Go that extra mile in safety and add gate hardware to your school perimeter…
When it comes to school gates, there are multiple gate hardware options to add that extra safety and security element to your school. With products ranging from drop bolts to digital locks, with different entry types including quick release for fire exits, digital intercom and keypads which can be popular with schools for staff that need access.
Gatemaster recommends a latch deadlock like the Superlock BLD for the main school gates. The latch bolt allows you to operate the lock with just the handles when unlocked, making it useful when the gate is left unlocked during opening hours, but you can deadlock it at night for additional security.
There is also the option to add a robust and secure locking drop bolt which is suitable for mesh and palisade gates. Once the dropbolt is in the ground the locking plate is rotated around the edge of the gate, so that when the second gate is closed the dropbolt cannot be lifted.
Add your gate restrainer! It’s simple but essential, and is a strong safety feature to help prevent gates falling if the hinge were to fail and cause harm to pedestrians or property (something that is essential within a school environment). Available in two sizes the gate restrainer can support up to 500kg and can be fitted to any single or double leaf gates and railings.
Palisade fencing remains an extremely popular security fencing option, whether used for commercial properties, industrial sites or schools.
As the more traditional option, palisade fencing can provide added security to your school. Palisade fencing pales are made using a ‘cold rolling process’ meaning that the steel becomes lighter in weight, while maintaining its strength. In addition, anti-tamper fixings are used to secure fencing parts together, making it difficult for the fencing to be tampered with.
Palisade fencing can look quite intimidating with a Triple-Pointed or Single Pointed Pale type, whereas, a Rounded Pale give them as softer appearance. Palisade fencing and gates are also able to be powder coated with one of our RAL colours.
There is also our Combi Security Palisade Fencing, an SR1 Rated option, that provides a stronger and more robust solution, ideal for sites where increased security is required. This fencing option makes it far more difficult for intruders to access your site due the combi palisade having increased security of individual pales. Instead of being bolted to the front of the top and bottom rails, there is a v slot design feature that allow the pales to slot into the middle of the rails.
Add your gate…
Available in single and double leaf varieties, all our palisade gates are supplied with the correct posts and fixings to make it easy to assemble.
Palisade fencing and gates offer a great amount of strength and security, but you can always add that extra security with Gatemaster locks.
With palisade fencing and gates, you may benefit from using a bolt-on-lock. This is simple to install, and only requires three holes drilled through the gate frame. Then, simply bolt it on using the fixings supplied.
Railing Systems & Gates
Railing systems are a good choice for securing public locations, especially when there are children around. Besides being safe and secure, railing systems are very ‘stylish’.
Unlike the mesh and palisade fencing and gates, the railing systems are best suited for areas that require visibility and a medium to low level of security. For example, playgrounds.
You will find our railing systems come in various widths and heights, as well as numerous installation options (self-raking, vertical, bow top). Although, bow top railings are most popular when securing an area where children are involved, as they can be supplied as a RoSPA certified fencing system.
There are matching gate options with whichever railing system that you go for, with a selection of pedestrian, single leaf and double leaf, there are a wide number of options available… And don’t forget it you need something custom; we can do this too!
Final thoughts
Selecting a security fencing solution for your school is no small task, and there are a lot of things to take into consideration, not only the fencing and gates but the additional gate hardware that might provide that additional safety for your school.
Decide which elements are most important to you and this will help in picking the best option for you!
If you look closely at the gates in your street, you will find bolt-on gate locks a common sight on metal gates. Bolt-on gate locks are fixed to the frame of the gate with bolts or screws as shown below. They are usually installed symmetrically on the gate frame and are visible from both the […]
When you send your child to the local playground, you trust that every precaution has been made to ensure your child’s safety. When it comes to the surrounding fence and gates, you need to incorporate certain safety measures like the right type of fencing and consider features like self-closing gates. The Royal Society for Prevention […]
If you aren’t familiar with our Superhinge, it is our industrial heavy-duty hinge. This low-friction hinge was developed specifically for heavy gates and features brass washers and grease points to facilitate a smooth closing action. Sounds good? To showcase the strength and versatility of the Superhinge, scroll along to see some recent case studies where […]
Whether grass or AstroTurf, football pitches are prone to trespassers playing a game out of hours. Not only can this create clashes with any pre-booked games, but unsupervised play can easily lead to damages to the pitch or facilities.
It’s therefore highly recommended that you secure your football pitches.
Here’s how!
Secure your football pitches with security fencing
One way to stop unwanted use of your facilities is to secure the perimeter with gates and fencing. There are four noticeable benefits to this:
It secures the perimeter of the pitch
If high enough, it’ll prevent footballs going onto nearby roads
It helps with a visual demarcation of the facilities
It stops animals from going on the pitches
But a fence isn’t just a fence. Just like in other public areas, there are specific considerations to make before putting up a security fence surrounding a football field.
Considerations for football fencing
To avoid injuries and disruptions to the game, here’s what to consider when choosing your fencing for football pitches:
Reduce sharp edges by using safety channels on the mesh
Incorporate curved edges and flush sides for better ball rebound
Add cranked fence tops to end trespassers climbing over
Use divider netting to stop stray balls and get uninterrupted games
Increase the height of the fencing panels to prevent footballs escaping
If you want more tips about fencing for football pitches, consult your chosen fencing installer.
Gate hardware to secure your football pitches
Now that you’ve decided on the type of fencing, we move onto another crucial aspect of making your football pitches more secure: the gate and our specialty, the lock.
Locks for securing football pitches
Football pitches are often a part of a larger leisure centre or sports facilities. Securing the facilities can take a long time every evening when closing. It’s therefore no wonder you want a solution that won’t take hours to secure at that time of the day.
The combination padlock is often used for this reason. But they often rust, get lost, or are too fiddly to use. Although straightforward to source, they aren’t the most convenient for the users when it comes down to it!
We don’t have anything against padlocks specifically. But we can’t help but want to show you the more convenient solutions out there.
So, could we interest you in a different keyless choice to help secure your football pitches?
Keyless lock for football pitches
You’ve hit the nail on the head with the keyless aspect of the combination padlock. For public spaces used by a larger number of people throughout the week, keyless is the way to go.
It’s cheaper and easier to distribute a code, more convenient to use, and you don’t have to worry about replacing any lost keys.
For sports facilities like football pitches, tennis clubs, and leisure centres, we always recommend a single-sided combination lock.
With this, you get:
Keyless entry
Entry secured with a digit pin
Exit without needing the code
Hold-back function allowing you to close the gate without it locking behind you
Especially the hold-back function (a feature of all our single-sided digital locks) is beneficial. This way, you or the facilities manager can unlock the gate at the beginning of the game, enable the function, and leave knowing the gate won’t lock again during the game.
The football game can then go uninterrupted by runs to reception to unlock the gate again because the new guy kicked the ball out of bounds. Again.
Go mechanical to secure your football pitches
You might be surprised to hear it’s not necessary to invest in a fully electric system to achieve the above.
In fact, we offer a fully mechanical combination lock which will do the job. The Superlock BDGS is our number one lock recommendation for sports facilities because it has all the above features and is made from anti-corrosive materials.
But, if you prefer the look of our Select Pro range, the DGLS will do exactly the same; it’ll just look a bit squarer.
The BDGS with security shroud in a metal gate
The DGLS installed in a gate
There are other locks on the market, which will offer features such as easy code changing, and key overrides. These of course come at a premium price point, but it is worth researching and getting an idea of the features available. They might be overkill for your use, so keep your needs in mind.
The best lock to secure your football pitches
Ultimately it comes down to your personal preference as there are many gate locks out there that can secure your football pitches.
Here at Gatemaster Locks we aim to make gate hardware simpler. So, whether you choose the Superlock or the Select Pro, you will have a lock that is easy to install, simple to use, and has all the necessary features to make your football pitches more secure and convenient to use.
Open gates can lead to injuries and damage. Choose a gate closer to close your gates – even when you forget.
Any kind of sports facilities are prone to vandalism and trespassers outside of opening hours. It’s therefore important to make sure the perimeter is secured with security fencing. To increase security, you have to choose the best lock for your customer’s specific requirements, which can depend on the sport. In this blog we will focus […]
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Any kind of sports facilities are prone to vandalism and trespassers outside of opening hours. It’s therefore important to make sure the perimeter is secured with security fencing. To increase security, you have to choose the best lock for your customer’s specific requirements, which can depend on the sport.
In this blog we will focus on how to best secure tennis courts.
Why should you secure tennis courts?
As a fencing installer, you already know the answer to this question. If left open, tennis courts are prone to:
Unauthorised and out of hours playing
Vandalism
Trespassing
Littering
Installing a security fence around the perimeter is therefore high priority for tennis clubs. And you’ve already got the fencing sorted. But do you know which kind of lock will work the best for tennis courts?
Considerations for locks for tennis courts
To make the perimeter more secure, consider how your customers want their users to gain access and use the gates.
Do they want keyless entry?
Do they require a quick exit in case of emergencies?
Do their users have special requirements?
Do your customers want their members to access the courts with a card reader?
Once you have a better idea of how the tennis club members will use the gate, it will be easier for us to recommend the perfect lock. Even if they want something we don’t sell, we can help guide you and find a lock with another suitable supplier.
The benefits of keyless entry for tennis courts
Keyless entry is popular with most sports facilities. They often require access for many different users, which changes rapidly. Keyless locks are therefore the way to go because:
They eliminate the need for keys
Codes are easier, cheaper, and quicker to distribute
No need to change the lock in the case of security breaches – you can just change the code
These little benefits will make a huge difference to your customers as they can offer a convenient access method to their club members before, during, and after their game.
Our lock recommendation to secure tennis courts
When approached with a tennis club enquiry, we have two types of locks we suggest: a digital, single-sided lock or digital lock with quick exit push pad. There are benefits to each, which we will go through now.
Keyless entry, internal handle
If you want a keyless combination lock, we recommend getting a single-sided one. This way, club members get the convenience of a keyless entry with a free exit lever handle from the inside which saves the hassle of having to put in a code to exit the courts. This is especially handy when club members have to run out to fetch their stray tennis balls!
At Gatemaster Locks, we have two different versions of this lock type:
Both of these keyless locks have an anti-corrosive keypad, making them highly weather resistant. The Superlock even has a stainless-steel lock case and is suitable for those seaside tennis courts that we’d all love to own!
The unique benefit of the Superlock though is the slim 70mm case, which means you just drill three holes and install it on most standard metal gates. It’ll fit right in.
The Select Pro is an older design but remains a solid lock. With a square lock case and 10-pin keypad, it is a popular lock for a reason.
If you still aren’t sure if you prefer the Select Pro or the Superlock, we go through the differences in this blog.
Keyless entry, push pad exit
Another way to secure tennis courts is with a combination lock with push pad exit. Similar to the option above, these locks have a keypad on the outside for that convenient keyless entry. But this lock has a green push pad on the inside to facilitate easy and quick exits. This can be useful for outward opening gates as they are opened with a push without the need for codes.
If you want more information on the BQDG, we’ve recently made a video showing how it can be used to secure bike storage units. The benefits of this lock will also work to secure tennis courts.
Bonus tip: Regardless of which of the above locks you choose; you might want to consider using a lock shroud with it. If the gate or fencing has holes large enough to reach a hand through, this will help protect the latch from outsiders reaching through the gate.
Whether you decide on a Superlock or a Select Pro to secure tennis courts; push pad or internal handle, you’re guaranteed a simple installation. Both ranges are installed with just three drilled holes. It doesn’t get easier than that.
Do you also want to remove your sign saying, “Please shut the gate”? Then install a controlled gate closer like Cuckfield Lawn and Tennis Club did recently.
Read more
By Ian Hetherington | Mar 26, 2021 | Uncategorized
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When you send your child to the local playground, you trust that every precaution has been made to ensure your child’s safety. When it comes to the surrounding fence and gates, you need to incorporate certain safety measures like the right type of fencing and consider features like self-closing gates. The Royal Society for Prevention […]
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