How to choose the best electric gate system for your home driveway
Installing an electric gate system has become standard practice for many households in the UK. This is only really a recent innovation though, with many people installing their first gate last century. If you are thinking about installing an electric gate system for your home driveway, you will need to choose the best gate system for your needs. To help you work out which system is best for you, we have put together this brief guide. It is important to note, however, that electric gate installation is a specialist job. It should only be carried out by trained professionals.
Types of Electric Gates
There are two main types of gate system: swing and sliding. Swing gates are, as the name suggests, opened by swinging them open. Swing gates, therefore, There are many different different types of electric gate system available for installation. Most homes in the UK will choose between swing and sliding gate systems. Swing gates are usually installed on larger driveways, while slide gates are usually installed on smaller ones.
The swing gate system will have the gate itself mounted at one end of the driveway.
HomeWhat options are available for Electric Gates
There are many options when it comes to purchasing an electric gate system. Here you can find out what the best options are for you.
* There are two types of electric gate systems: underground or surface.
* Underground: Using this method, the electric gate system is installed underground, usually up to 100 feet away from your house.
* Surface: Using this method, the electric gate system is installed on the surface, usually up to 100 feet away from your house.
* Both types come in three different types.
* Open gate: An open gate allows a vehicle to pass by the gate without slowing down.
* Swing gate: A swing gate allows a vehicle to stop, turn around, and then continue through the gate.
* Sliding gate: A sliding gate allows a vehicle to stop, turn around, and then continue through the gate, but will not open or close unless manually operated by the driver.
* In addition, each type comes in different price ranges; it can range from £1500 to £4000 per gate.
* To figure out what type of gate system is right for you, ask yourself the following questions:
* Where will the gate be installed?
* Will the gate open in both directions?
Which type of electric gate system is best for your driveway
There are many options when it comes to purchasing an electric gate system. Here you can find out what the best options are for you.
* There are two types of electric gate systems: underground or surface.
* Underground: Using this method, the electric gate system is installed underground, usually up to 100 feet away from your house.
* Surface: Using this method, the electric gate system is installed on the surface, usually up to 100 feet away from your house.
* Both types come in three different types.
* Open gate: An open gate allows a vehicle to pass by the gate without slowing down.
* Swing gate: A swing gate allows a vehicle to stop, turn around, and then continue through the gate.
* Sliding gate: A sliding gate allows a vehicle to stop, turn around, and then continue through the gate, but will not open or close unless manually operated by the driver.
* In addition, each type comes in different price ranges; it can range from £1500 to £4000 per gate.
* To figure out what type of gate system is right for you, ask yourself the following questions:
* Where will the gate be installed?
* Will the gate open in both directions?
How an electric gate system works and how to install it
An automatic electric gate system provides added value to a property. It’s not only a great security measure, but it allows you to control access, so you can keep your property secure, whatever your circumstances.
* Know the difference between a driveway gate and a side gate. Driveway gates are operated by a wall switch. They’re often fitted with automatic closing and opening systems for convenience and safety.
* Consider automatic swinging gates. If you’re building a home, or you simply have limited space, automatic swinging gates are a practical option.
* Consider remote controlled gates. Remote-controlled gates can be customised to suit your requirements, including adding safety sensors, access control, and intercom systems.
* Consider a swing gate. Swing gates are operated by a wall-mounted lever, which is operated manually by a gate opener.
* Consider a sliding gate. Sliding gates offer convenient access, and they’re ideal for properties where space is limited.
* Consider automatic sliding gates. Automatic sliding gates can be customised to suit your requirements, including adding safety sensors, access control, and intercom systems.
* Consider safety sensors. Safety sensors are an important feature to have installed on automatic gates.
Benefits of an electric gate system
Although gate systems have been around for decades, with modern technology, they’re better than ever.
* They are extremely secure. Unlike manual gates, which can be opened with a key, most gate systems require a code or keycard to gain entry.
* They’re super convenient. Most systems have keypads and displays, which allow you to open and close the gate remotely. In fact, many systems also have intercoms, which allow you to communicate with people on the property.
* They’re easy to customize. Since gate systems can be customized, you can add gates, cameras, and intercoms. The possibilities are nearly endless.
* They’re energy-efficient. Most gate systems have timers that automatically shut the gate down after a specified amount of time. This can help conserve energy.
* They’re affordable. Gate systems cost a fraction of what they’ll cost to install a manual gate.
* They’re versatile. Gate systems can be used for a variety of purposes, including controlling which vehicles can come and go.
* They’re safe. Most gate systems have double-locking devices, which prevent the gate from being opened without the proper code or keycard.
* They’re low-maintenance. Except for annual battery replacements, gate systems don’t require a lot of upkeep
Which motor to choose for your electric gate
When considering your motor for an electric gate, you should consider three factors:
* Your gate’s weight.
* Your gate’s nose weight.
* Your gate’s ground clearance.
* Your gate’s material.
* Your gate’s maximum opening width.
* Your gate’s maximum opening height.
* Your gate’s maximum opening height, when open.
* Your gate’s maximum opening height, when closed.
* Your gate’s maximum opening speed.
* Your gate’s maximum operating load.
* Your gate’s load speed.
* Your gate’s maximum opening frequency.
* Your gate’s maximum opening frequency, when open.
* Your gate’s maximum opening frequency, when closed.
* Your gate’s maximum opening pressure.
* Your gate’s maximum opening pressure, when open.
* Your gate’s maximum opening pressure, when closed.
* Your gate’s maximum opening
Choosing between sliding and swinging gate
Choosing between sliding and swinging gate is best made considering the type of gate you’re intending to install.
* Sliding gates are more suitable for large properties because of their larger 8-foot-wide panels. But, for properties where space is limited, swinging gates are ideal.
* Sliding gates are safer and more convenient. Swinging gates require space to be cleared of vegetation and vehicles.
* Sliding gates are quieter than conventional gates. Swinging gates, on the other hand, are noisier.
* Sliding gates have a longer lifespan. Swinging gates need regular servicing and, over time, may eventually need to be replaced.
* Sliding gates are more affordable. Swinging gates are more expensive.
* A sliding gate is weatherproof. Swinging gates aren’t.
* Sliding gates require less maintenance. Swinging gates need regular servicing.
Questions to ask before making a purchase
If you’re thinking about buying an electric gate, there are some important questions to ask.
* Price. Ask how much you would be charged per gate per month.
* Warranty. Ask how long each electric gate comes with its warranty.
* Installation. Ask how much the installation will cost.
* Accessories. Ask whether there are any extras you’ll also need.
* Remote control. Ask about what remote controls are included.
* Safety. Ask about the safety protocols followed when mounting an electric gate.
* Additional benefits. Ask what the electric gate can do for you.
* Repairs. Ask about the repair policy.
* Maintenance. Ask about the maintenance guidelines.
Conclusion on choosing an electric gate for your home
Electric gate systems come in many shapes and sizes. However, there are generally two types available – swing gates and slide gates. Swing gates are the most popular type of gate system, but slide gates are not too far behind. In this post, we’ve outlined the different types of electric gate systems and how to decide which one is right for you. I hope you found this guide helpful. If you have any additional questions, please give Adrian a call on 07855-781433
Electric Gates
We work hard to be the best Electric Gate company in Northern Ireland
Automatic Gates
Automatic Gates for home or business – we can help you with that.
Maybe you want new gates or maybe you want to automate an existing gate – we do it all.
Got an automatic gate that is broken – call us for a free quote – or even just advice.