When it comes to enhancing security in your parking lot, spike strips are a popular choice. They’re effective in deterring or preventing unauthorized access. One key decision you’ll face is whether to take the DIY route or opt for professional installation. Both options have their advantages and drawbacks, and making the right choice is essential to ensure your parking lot’s safety. Let’s quickly explore the pros and cons of DIY and professional installation of spike strips to help you make an informed decision.
DIY Spike Strip Installation Is Difficult, Less Reliable but Cheaper
Many property owners consider the DIY approach for its potential cost savings and hands-on involvement. Here are the key aspects to consider when installing spike strips on your own:
Pros:
- Cost Savings: DIY installation can be more budget friendly as it eliminates the need to hire professionals.
- Hands-On Experience: If you enjoy taking on projects and have some DIY experience, installing spike strips can be a satisfying task.
- Customization: You have full control over the placement and configuration of the spike strips to suit your specific needs. But you can also accomplish this with a professional installation during a consultation.
Cons:
- Skill and Expertise: Proper installation requires a lot of skill and expertise to ensure the spike strips are effective and safe. Errors can lead to ineffective security or even legal issues.
- Safety Concerns: Mishandling spike strips can lead to accidents, injuries, or damage to vehicles. You also may not be aware of local guidelines for spike usage. This could be a big liability for your parking lot.
- Time-Consuming: DIY installation may take longer. This is especially true if you’re new to the process. This could leave your parking lot vulnerable for an extended period.
Professional Spike Strip Installation is Fast, Efficient and Effective
Professional installation involves hiring experts in security solutions to handle the entire process. Here are the key aspects to consider when opting for professional installation:
Pros:
- Expertise: Professionals have the knowledge and experience to ensure proper installation. They can maximize the effectiveness of the spike strips while meeting your needs.
- Safety Assurance: With experts on the job, safety concerns are minimized, reducing the risk of accidents or damage.
- Efficiency: Professional installation is typically faster and more efficient. They will keep disruptions to your parking lot to a minimum.
Cons:
- Cost: Professional installation can be more expensive due to labor and expertise costs. There isn’t any downside otherwise. You can customize your installation by working with your installer during your consultation and planning process.
Making the Right Choice for Your Lot Is Relatively Clear
To determine whether DIY or professional installation is the best choice for your parking lot, consider the following:
- Skill Level: Do you have the necessary skills and expertise to ensure safe and effective installation? Not many people really do, and professional installation is likely the safer option.
- Budget: Assess your budget and weigh the cost of professional installation against the potential risks and expenses of DIY errors. This could be a short-term gain but result in a long-term loss.
- Timeframe: Consider your timeline. If you need security measures in place quickly, professional installation is the faster option.
- Legal Considerations: Research local regulations and legal requirements for spike strip installation to ensure compliance. If you don’t, they could cause you a lot of trouble and headache down the line. A professional installer will have this knowledge ready for any installation or consultation.
- Property Size and Complexity: The size and complexity of your parking lot may influence your choice. Larger or more intricate lots will benefit from professional installation.
- Long-Term Goals: Consider your long-term security goals. If you’re just using them as a deterrent, you may not care about the installation. You just need to make sure they won’t damage anyone or anything.
- Liability: Evaluate the potential liability involved in DIY installation. This could be a real problem if accidents or damage occur. You always want receipts for installation and servicing on hand for this reason. DIY can open your parking lot up to liabilities you likely won’t want.
Be Careful When Considering a DIY Spike Strip Installation
The choice between DIY and professional installation of spike strips for parking lot security is a unique one. While DIY may offer cost savings, professional installation provides protection. A DIY installation can save you money today but cost you a lot more than a professional installation would have over time. A poorly installed system can open you up to legal liabilities or damage your property. It could even result in the system just not working and this all being a waste of time and money. Keep in mind for this decision that safety and compliance are paramount when it comes to securing your property.