There’s no doubt self-storage security has an impact on attracting and keeping quality renters. There are several considerations that come into play when laying out your strategy. Design and budgeting dictate the choices you make for system components. The key to a successful security program is making these components work within your site plan and budget. The facility should show a secure appearance to reassure tenants, attract and impress prospects, and discourage potential criminals.
The two factors of budgeting are time and, of course, money. Planning ahead for both will make a project run smoothly to completion. Conduit runs need to be in place before pouring concrete. Buildings and driveways will be nearly constructed when the security installation begins. Proper installation will take time. You can help by letting your installer know the schedule early, and keeping him informed of any changes. The sooner you sign his contract, the better scheduling priority you will have for completion.
Any successful storage development depends on the proper budget. The security factor is no exception. It is one part of the overall development, which will contribute to the bottom line.
The building layout on the property will determine how much fencing is needed, the type of gate, location and quantity of entry devices, the number of cameras, necessary lighting and the fit of other components. Buildings on the perimeter eliminate the need for much fencing, but create a visible barrier for passers-by and law enforcement. Hallways create the need for protection of belongings and safety of individuals. The gate and office location will dictate visibility from the office, and possibly the type of gate.
Choosing a Gate
Your self-storage security begins with your gate and fencing. In the planning stages, most developers begin with the layout of the buildings, progress to the office, then try to make a gate fit. The correct approach is to identify where the gate should be in relationship to the access point and locate the office and buildings accordingly. When this is followed, access to the office is included with the proper flow of traffic throughout the yard. The gate location is the most important security consideration, but usually the last to be addressed.
The style of gate and fence can contribute to the look and feel of the business, and can even enhance your curb appeal. From an operation perspective, the least desirable type of gate is a swing gate. The number of cycles per day creates too much wear and tear on this type of gate, making it a maintenance headache. Swing gates require room to swing away to avoid contacting the vehicle.
Slide, or roll, gates move sideways across the drive. They require room to pull away from the drive, but no extra footage in the traffic flow area. Slide gates are mounted on a mid-rail on the fence panel with rollers, top and bottom. No part of the gate itself is in contact with the ground. This is known as a cantilever style.