Mini Storage Gate Access Systems

[Wendy Carpenter]

Here’s my second of what will likely be quite a few mini storage questions! 

The property I’m purchasing currently has a fence on 3 sides, but no gate(s). The drive is a horseshoe shape around the back of the building (only one building on the property). We plan to put in an entrance gate on one side and then an exit only gate on the other. 

What do you all use for access? Key fob? Key code? Key card? I would appreciate advice on any systems and brands you are currently using for a gate opener and for tenant access. There seems to be a million out there! 

My partner is skeptical of using key cards (which I think would be the easiest/best route) as he thinks they have too much potential to be demagnetized and cause us a lot of work. 

It’s only an 82 unit facility, so not a huge one. I’m trying to be smart economically, but also get something that won’t cause us problems with low quality. 

[Mark Byrge]

Numeric key pad! You can program from remote location, key cards have to be done in person. I just switched all of mine over as it uses the same controls, just different head unit.