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Barrier and Security Gate Arms

barrier arm in the parking lot

Vortex specializes in commercial door service, repair and replacement, as well as access control systems, such as barrier and security gate arms.

barrier arm in the parking lot

Barrier arms are one of the most adaptable security devices on the market. Available in a variety of sizes and configurations, they can be custom fit to almost any location.

  • Standard Barrier Arms. The most commonly installed barrier arm. Built to manage heavy traffic, they consist of a single pole up to 15 feet long.
  • Wishbone Barrier Arms. Designed to control wide traffic lanes at industrial and manufacturing sites, these arms are up to 30 feet long, made up of two poles installed on either side of the supporting post, for added stability.  I”m not sure what this is?
  • Articulating Barrier Arms. Built for spaces with low ceilings or overhead obstacles, such as power lines, that could prevent a rigid arm from raising to its full height. Articulating arms have a hinge that allows them to fold in on themselves as they’re raised, reducing their height by up to half.
  • Automatic Barrier Arms. Raise automatically after being activated by a keypad, card reader, proximity sensor, or smartphone app.
Hand Held Card To The Scanner To Open The Car

Service and Repair

Barrier arms can experience mechanical and electrical issues and often are damaged by vehicles. Vortex technicians are trained to service, repair, and replace all critical parts, in order to minimize downtime. We know these units are critical to the security of your building and property, which is why our teams are ready to respond quickly to any and all issues, including:

barrier arm at entrance of a garage
  • Worn or Broken Parts. Though barrier arms are designed to function for years, problems can arise over time due to repeated use. Vortex service technicians inspect gears, belts, and bearings to identify problems before breaks occur.
  • Sensor Malfunction. Damaged sensors prevent barriers from opening to admit authorized users or cause them to close unexpectedly, possibly harming vehicles. Accumulated dirt and debris can also interfere with sensors, preventing them from reading signals or detecting vehicles.
  • Faulty Control System. Barrier arms are operated by an electric control board. Incorrect programming, bad software, or damage from a rainstorm or power surge can cause them to open inconsistently or incorrectly.
  • Corrosion. Unless properly sealed, rain, snow, and ice can deteriorate bolts, hinges, and other metal components, preventing the arm from opening and closing smoothly.
  • Communication Issues. Poor wiring can prevent the control board from signaling the motor, leading to access problems. If the unit is part of a larger access control system, problems within the network can lead to operational difficulties.

Vortex not only repairs barrier arms, we also help extend their lifespan and lower the cost of ownership through our preventative maintenance programs. We can even upgrade your existing equipment to improve its reliability and performance.

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What Our Customers Are Saying

Excellent
4.8
David W.
I'm a Building Engineer and use these guys all the time. They are my number one go to vendor for any and all types of door repairs. I've read on some other reviews that they are too expensive but I have not found that they are over priced at all. You get what you pay for, most doors and entrances are heavily used and you want to hire quality repairmen/women when you really need the job done right. They are always quick to respond with lots of insight as to how to fix, repair, and prevent future breakdowns. Never had any issues with a door or entryway breaking down again after they have repaired it and all their work has stood the test of time. I highly recommend their services and even though I can choose from many other local and national vendors in the area, I always prefer Vortex when I need the job done quickly, properly, and without future issues.
Team P.
We have a small print shop storefront close to the AT&T Center (where the SA Spurs play) and needed a retail front door. We shopped around and called a number of door companies with minimal, or should I say, less than enthusiastic efforts to gain our trust and business. Our stores structure was built in the 1950's so there were many company representatives who came to check it out and never got back to us or there quote was out of this world because of the possibility of many unforeseen issues, to say the least. Once we called VORTEX I could tell we finally had the ball rolling in the right direction. There were a number of folks involved from the beginning; the local Mgr. Randy McFarland, Scott McGauvren, to the installers including Cotton and Josh as well as a few others who's names I've forgotten. Most importantly it was a great overall effort by everyone involved ! Although not everything went as planned due to the age of the building and the unexpected obstacles, everything went as smoothly as anyone could expect. Even though they had to return after the initial installation, it was all handled in an organized and professional manner. Thanks to Mr. McFarland and his San Antonio, VORTEX group we have an awesome retail storefront door. JS
Steve W.
Joey and Ernie did a great job. Thank you.
Ky M.
Quick Service and very knowledgeable in what was going on and how to fix the problem. Adam, went above and beyond to even fix a minor problem on a door outside the original quote.
Ryan R.
Good work by Greg
izzy B.
Edward was great!
Trent S.
Wyatt B and AJ were amazing. Great service
Dustin M.
The customer service from the tech was outstanding and the quality of workmanship was great. These guys worked their tails off and didn't leave until it was perfect!
Gary C.
The team is always super responsive, professional, knowledgeble and efficient. I find Tristan and Orlando to be all this things including a"go to " resource and a true pleasure to work with. Signed: Gary C from Wells Fargo Bank.
Vortex Doors - since 1937

Perfect service, incredibly fast.

Please call us at (800) 698-6783 for 24/7 customer support.

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