admin Most customers prefer to have sliding electric gates on their properties because they do not want to deal with opening driveway gates in the pouring rain. Customers see electric gates as an ideal solution.
Sliding electric gates have been frequently installed in new homes across the UK for the last 10 years. This is not surprising, as they provide a solution for those fed up with getting out of their vehicles in order to open gates. These slides also have added security compared to traditional gates.
Electric vs Manual: What’s the Difference?
Electric gates offer more benefits than simply providing convenience. Using a touchless opening system provides the user with a more comfortable experience as they do not have to step out of their car, open the gate, or experience rain. A system like this is also more safe as the user does not have to leave their vehicle unattended to open the gate. This is also a big advantage for people with limited movement or older people.
There are advantages to automatic gates over their manual counterparts, some being more valuable than the latter’s lower price and being more reliable. Automatic gates close themselves, ensuring your property is never left wide open because you forgot to close the gate. You can even set up the gates to work with an intercom and CCTV system to monitor and control access to your property. Additionally, automatic gates provide better security than manual gates. Would-be intruders can’t just push the gate open like they can with manual gates.
Although they have their disadvantages, manual gates can work better in some scenarios. For example, their cost is much lower than automatic gates. They don’t rely on electricity to operate, and their automated counterparts generally have a battery backup to facilitate operation with no electricity. They also have fewer moving parts, which results in less maintenance. For some people, this simplicity is a benefit. If you are looking at sliding gates, you are likely dealing with a larger property. Larger properties usually have more room for automated gates to make more sense.
Why Sliding Over Swing?
Space constraints make sliding gates more preferable than swing gates. If you don’t have room for a swing gate to open inwards or outwards, you will want a sliding gate. Sliding gates operate by moving along the top of the fence, which gives them good clearance on uneven terrain. Sliding gates are preferred in windy areas because they can stay in one position which is useful for windy situations. Swing gates do not have this feature.
The design is just as important as functionality. Especially with aluminium gates. They slide open in such an elegant manner. They do not have the same impact on the overall aesthetic as a large swing gate since they stay in the interior of the gate instead of opening outwards.
What Should a Good Company Offer?
Now we’re getting to the important stuff. This is a big investment, and with it comes the potential for bad installations to create a headache.
Another thing to appreciate in companies is memberships in some of the federations such the DHF (Door & Hardware Federation), as it shows some level of commitment to their standards. You want them to have conducted a comprehensive analysis of your land before sending a quote. They should prepare for any potential issues head of time such as checking the land the gate will open towards, the power supply, any drainage issues, or buried power lines. Good companies will often be available to service these motor gates should they go wrong.
Safety Features You Shouldn’t Compromise On
Electric gates are heavy and powerful, which means safety needs to be taken seriously. Any reputable installer should include obstacle detection as standard – sensors that stop the gate if something (or someone) gets in the way. This is particularly important if you’ve got children or pets.
Photocells create an invisible beam across the gate opening. Break the beam whilst the gate’s closing and it should stop immediately or reverse. Some systems use pressure sensors on the leading edge instead, which work in a similar way.
You should also have a manual release mechanism. If there’s a power cut or the motor fails, you need to be able to open the gate manually from inside your property. It sounds obvious, but not all installations include easy access to this feature, which can be a real problem in an emergency.
Warning lights and reflective markings might seem over the top, but they’re worth having if your gate opens onto a pavement or quiet road. The last thing you want is someone walking into a moving gate because they didn’t realise it was automated.
The Bottom Line
Electric sliding gates start on the lower end of the pricing range of home improvements, but they can make a significant impact on how you operate and/or interact with your home. They can be a significant upgrade to your home’s appearance, which is a good advantage to have if you are planning to sell. They certainly help with the overall safety of your property, and help make entering your home or leaving your home automated, which is terribly convenient.
Of course it is a decision that could take some time to reach. In addition to the above checklist, make sure you know and/or understand what work is or is not included in the price, as this is often the biggest source of frustration on the customer side.