Dumpster enclosure gates are evolving from simple chain-link fence barriers with slats to more complex and aesthetically appealing – and more effective – structures. A dumpster enclosure on a commercial or institutional property isn’t just for keeping your unattractive dumpster out of sight, but if built the right way, your enclosure gate will also keep out marauders, both human and animal. Take it a step further and add some thoughtful visual appeal to the materials and design, and you’ll have a structure that is in harmony with your business, while preventing unauthorized access to the garbage.
But before you plan your dumpster enclosure, there are some important things to think about. You want your enclosure to be serviceable for a long time, and you don’t want to be faced with space or other issues after it’s built. A company that specializes in gate sales, gate openers and dumpster enclosure gates is going to have the obscure type of knowledge you need to make the best choices for this previously utilitarian – and kind of gross – area.
There are a few main components of a commercial dumpster fence/gating system that should direct the design of your enclosure area:
Protect Enclosure Walls
Protect enclosure walls and gates with bumpers, poles and curbs. Maneuvering large vehicles in the parking lot can cause significant damage, as can the emptying and replacing of dumpsters by a garbage truck. Place these protective structures inside the enclosure as well for added protection.
Pay Attention to the Gate
The dumpster enclosure gate should be of good quality, with these features:
- Strong hinges that can hold up heavy gates – Hinges are subject to strain, and should be heavy duty, particularly if the gates are made of steel.
- Strong pins installed at a good depth: Gates are subject to considerable stress when the wind blows, and can even blow open if not well-secured. Gate hardware should be of good quality, while enclosures should have strong, thick pins that are sunk at least 2 inches deep into asphalt to stabilize. Preventing gates from blowing open not only protects the dumpster and contents, but will help keep passing vehicles from unintended encounters with the gate.
- Sufficient ground clearance: Your gate should be installed with sufficient ground clearance so it opens and closes properly. Over time, land can subside and gates can sag, so make sure yours is a few inches off the ground and that it swings open and shut easily when refuse crews arrive to empty the dumpster.
Plan for a Wide Opening
Your dumpster enclosure’s opening should be wide enough to allow the dumpsters to be moved in and out efficiently, ideally with room to spare.
This will not only save time but also prevent damage to the enclosure walls. If you’ve ever noticed other dumpster enclosures with damage near the openings, you can bet the opening is not large enough for easy access. You’ll also notice that those damaged dumpster enclosure gates don’t exactly send a message that that business cares about upkeep or appearance.
Design for Durability as Well as Aesthetic Appeal
Commercial gate enclosures offer an opportunity for the property owner to get creative. A wide variety of attractive designs and materials are used by business owners to enclose dumpsters these days, including board and batten cedar, vinyl enclosures and surrounds, modular panel systems, simulated stone surrounds and cellular PVC and composite surrounds. Whatever material you use, do choose heavy-duty steel posts whenever possible to reinforce the strength of the enclosure.
The Advantages of Installing or Updating Your Dumpster Fence & Gate
Some might think this article about dumpster enclosures is a little enthusiastic and overwrought, but a business with street front visibility and a waste area that can be seen from the street or is visible from your parking lot needs the benefits of a quality, attractive dumpster enclosure and gate.
- It keeps your property looking attractive and well-cared for. Properly maintained commercial facilities are less likely to be broken into, and a detail like a modern-design, heavy-duty dumpster fence is a real deterrent because of its implications as to how thoroughly the owner maintains and protects their assets.
- It keeps people out of your trash. Not only does this increase your facility’s security (like healthcare facilities with bio waste, or businesses who get rid of sensitive documents), but it stops you from having to pay overflow costs resulting from outsiders putting stuff in your dumpster.
- It keeps out vermin like raccoons and rats, who can get into your trash and make a mess, not to mention a possible health and safety hazard.
It’s affordable, and when properly designed, installed and maintained, dumpster enclosure gates last a long time. If you’re a business with an outdoor lot and private dumpster, consider how it currently looks and functions. Couldn’t you use the advantages of having it updated?
Use a Local Commercial Door Installation for Your Enclosure
With all the options available today for a dumpster enclosure, it’s important to know the ins and outs of the style and materials you have to choose from. Call a company who provides a wide range of gate sales and gate service, including installation and repair. They’ve likely seen it all, and they’ll be able to make sure you make the choice that is best for the needs of your business.