Electric automatic driveway gates can beautifully compliment your property. Automating driveway gates enhance security, privacy, and convenience as well as adding kerb appeal.
They act as a significant physical deterrent, discouraging intruders from accessing the property. Privacy is ensured as automatic driveway gates conceal entrances and the property from public view. The primary advantage of gate automation is the convenience it offers, allowing swift and effortless access through the gate.
What type of gate automation is there?
There are two main types of automation for residential properties Swing automation and Slide automation.
Advantages of a Swing Automatic Gate:
- Aesthetics: Swing gates often have a more traditional and elegant appearance, adding to the overall curb appeal of the property.
- Space Efficiency: Swing gates require less lateral space for operation, making them suitable for properties with limited driveway space.
- Easy Manual Operation: In the event of a power outage or mechanical failure, swing gates can be manually opened or closed with relative ease.
- Lower Installation Cost: In some cases, swing gates may be less expensive to install compared to slide gates, especially for smaller gates.
Disadvantages of a Swing Automatic Gate:
- Sloping Driveways: Swing gates may not be suitable for properties with steeply sloping driveways, as they need level ground to function properly.
- Snow or Obstacles: Accumulated snow or obstacles in the gate’s swing path may hinder its operation.
Advantages of a Slide Automatic Gate:
- Space Adaptability: Slide gates are ideal for properties with limited space or driveways that slope upward.
- Enhanced Security: Slide gates are more difficult to force open compared to swing gates, providing increased security.
- Smooth Operation: Slide gates typically have a smoother and quieter operation, which is advantageous for properties in quiet neighbourhoods.
- Suitable for Snowy Regions: Slide gates are less affected by snow accumulation, ensuring smooth functionality in colder climates.
Disadvantages of a Slide Automatic Gate:
- Higher Installation Cost: Slide gates are generally more complex to install, potentially leading to higher upfront costs.
- Manual Operation Complexity: In the event of a power outage, manually operating a slide gate can be more cumbersome compared to swing gates.
Automated driveway gate installation
Ultimately, the choice between a swing automatic gate and a slide automatic gate depends on factors such as available space, driveway slope, budget, and personal preferences. It is essential to consider these factors and consult with a professional before making a decision.
One of the most significant dangers associated with automatic electric gates is the risk of entrapment or crushing. If the gate does not have proper safety mechanisms, it can close unexpectedly and cause injury or even death to a person or pet caught in its path. It is therefore essential that automatic gates should be installed by a qualified installer (such as a Gate Safe installer) who has the required training and certificates, uses approved equipment and complies with the Supply of Machinery (Safety) Regulations 2008. This means that all automated gates are classified as machines under these regulations and installers and end users of automated gates must ensure they comply with the legislation, this will include regular maintenance and checks of the automated systems.
Wooden Gates for automation
Most of our Courtyard & Driveway gate range can be automated. A few such as the Beckington and Farleigh are built with a heavy duty bottom rail for automation, The other designs simply need the addition of a heavy duty bottom rail. This is needed to help the gate withstand the stresses and strains of the automation movement.
