The Benefits of Using a Digital Gate Lock for Modern Homes
For years, we’ve relied upon strong, durable locks to keep our homes safe. And while many high-quality locks exist, demand for digital locks is increasing. However, while smart locks for our front and back doors have been a common feature for a few years now, there is growing demand for smart perimeter security – such as a digital gate lock. How can these digital locks make your gate safer?
To learn more about the benefits of using a digital gate lock, we contacted Lock & Key York. They are well-renowned locksmiths in the UK, with a wealth of experience with both smart locks and traditional lock types. So, what are the main benefits they mentioned about a smart door lock for your gate? How can these locks provide even greater security and durability than a standard gate lock?
Digital Gate Locks Are Becoming Increasingly Popular: Why?
As we already touched on above, digital locks and smart door locks have been a common addition to homes for a few years now. Ever since the ‘smart home’ era started, smart locks have existed.
Why, though? Why are people increasingly turning to ‘smart’ technology instead of just sticking with a tried and tested gate lock style?
- For one, it’s easier to connect all of your home security systems together when they all ‘talk’ to the same smart interface, right?
- At the same time, some people prefer the convenience. Being able to lock/unlock your gate remotely is a pretty nifty feature!
- Also, some of us just like the idea of making forced entry more difficult. Not every criminal has a tool for digital lockpicking.
- Finally, there is a passion for tech in the modern world. If we can make something ‘smart’, we are drawn to the concept.
There are practical reasons for going for a digital gate lock, but there is also the simple ‘FOMO’ (fear of missing out) factor. People who love to be at the forefront of technological advancements might find that a smart lock is just what they are missing. What are the main benefits of going smart with your gate lock, though? What kind of advantages does it offer over a standard mechanical gate lock?
The Key Advantages Of Switching To A Digital Gate Lock
There are quite a few benefits to installing a digital gate lock rather than sticking with the tried-and-tested. Some of the main advantages, which we spoke about above, include;
Remote Access
Let’s say you have a parcel turning up today, and you know it cannot be left at your front door. With a traditional gate lock, you need to hope the delivery driver can reach over and unlock your gate.
With a digital gate lock, you get a notification when they are trying to get inside. Then, you simply unlock the gate remotely for them. Or, you provide them with a one-time access code so they can get into the garden and drop your parcel off. In fact, speaking of access…
Multiple User Codes
You also get the benefit of being able to create numerous codes for each user. That means that you, your partner, your children, your dogwalker, etc., can all have your own access code. Useful, right?
Not only does this allow you to make it harder for someone to break in because you avoid using the same code over and over, but it also allows you to know who entered and when. Most digital gate locks come with a database that you can use to see when the gate was opened and what code was used to open it.
Having more than one access code means you do not have to just share one code, and, as mentioned above, you can quickly create temporary codes for one-time entrants. You can even quickly remove codes from the database if someone moves out or if they forget their access code.
Ease Of Use
With a digital gate lock, you simply need to enter a code, and the gate will unlock. With a mechanical gate lock, you need to be able to unlock the gate with a key, or reach over the top and unlock the gate – not everyone has a key and/or can reach over.
Access becomes more limited then, which is obviously quite annoying. Code-based access is much easier and avoids anyone having to manually struggle with the gate. That improves accessibility for people who are unable to climb over the gate or who are not physically strong enough to open it.
Keyless Entry
Finally, but by no means least importantly, there is the benefit of no longer needing keys. Keyless entry is a key benefit of a digital gate lock; you no longer have to store and/or hide that garden gate key.
Keyless entry is useful as it means that someone cannot pick the lock, either. With a traditional gate lock, a criminal can unlock the gate using a lockpicking kit. With a digital gate lock, this is much more difficult. Keyless entry means no more having to keep the key easily accessible, but also no more worries about losing the key and/or having to get a locksmith to re-key your gate if you lose the key.
Digital Gate Locks: A Simple But Convenient Choice
So, we hope the above has given you some insight into why the digital gate lock is not just a fad. They provide an extra layer of protection that you simply cannot get with a standard lock type.
Are they for everyone? No. Not everyone loves the idea of using digital tech to manage access to their homes or their gates, right? Some might prefer to see their gate lock mechanisms in operation. Others may not be comfortable with smart tech enough to rely upon it day-to-day. However, for anyone with a love for technology or who regularly uses smart locks elsewhere, go for it!
Hire a locksmith in your local area and ask them for a quote about a digital gate lock. You might be shocked at just how cheap these new additions can be, and how much they improve your security.
