We’ve seen automated electric gates in movies and TV shows for a long time. We’ve seen some of them as we pass by affluent neighbourhoods. It always looks like a piece of luxury for houses or offices with a lot to lose. While security is a big part of the decision to install an electric gate, there are plenty of other reasons to do it.
There are different types of electric gates in the market. All of them are powered by different kinds of motors. It sounds like a herculean task but really, you just need to know a couple of things to get set and go. And that’s what we are here to help you with.
How to Choose an Electric Gate?
If you are a new entrant in this space, welcome. Here are a few things you need to know before you go out to pick a gate that you fancy. We will find out what you want and what works best for you by answering a series of questions on gates.
How Your Gates Will be Used
The first thing you need to determine is how much the gates are used. Typically, they are used once in the morning when everyone is going out for school or work and once in the evening when everyone returns. There will be a couple of others when running for errands or receiving and seeing guests off and such. All electric gates work on motors that determine their functionality. So depending on how often and how much you use them, you must pick a gate and its corresponding motor.
What you want the electric gates for also determines the material. Do you want heavy wrought iron gates or something lighter and cheaper? That depends on frequency too.
Who Will Use the Electric Gates?
If you’re installing one at your home, your family members are probably the only folks who need to know how it works. Your installer must tell you about the safety features. Children and pets, of course, should not have access to the workings of it. They are operated by remote control or a keypad or an intercom that must stay out of the reach of children and pets. Those who don’t live with you must ideally not have the controllers. But if they do, they must be a part of the safety training. You must also think about what to do with deliveries and service suppliers. The last leg, of course, is to think about entry for emergency services. In case something goes wrong, they must be able to enter the premises.
How Much Space Can You Spare?
The type of gate you choose depends on the space you have at your gate. Swing gates need an arc to open and close. Sliding gates need width. Bi-fold gates need half the space that swing gates do. But they need ground tracks that need to be cleaned regularly. Also, obstacles in the area like plants or stairs will have to be removed.
You can also try telescopic gate which split the gate into overlapping sections. They slide along each other and save space. They can typically be split into three sections.
You can also try bi-parting sliders with two gates. They open in the middle as each leaf slides away to the side. That saves space too. But do bear in mind that the more innovation you want in your gates, the more the cost.
What Materials to Consider for Your Gates?
The material of the gate has a lot of bearing on aesthetics, budget and safety. So this is a crucial part.
- Wooden gates come from long sections of wood that are bonded together with nails. This looks good and comes with no gaps. They have a retro look and feel too.
- Iron and/or steel can be heavy but they can be welded into shapes making it exclusive. These can be ornate and the budget is flexible depending on how far you go.
- Aluminium metal gates will save you from rust and corrosion. It is light, strong and durable. These gates also come with a coating to give them the look of a wooden gate.
Servian are experts at gate installation and our team in Dorset are ready to help with your gate requirements. From supply, installation and maintenance our friendly team can take care of it all.
Our Dorset automated gates installation team is on hand, ready to provide you with a FREE no-obligation quote.
