If your driveway is short or sloping, traditional swing gates can be very annoying. They also require a lot of clear space to open, and can be problematic on uneven ground. That’s why a lot of property owners prefer sliding electric gates. These types of gates clear the entrance way by sliding horizontally along the property boundary.
How Sliding Gates Work
Sliding gates are designed to take up less space than swing gates. A sliding gate moves along a track supported by a cantilever frame and is motor driven. Just like swing gates, they open and close by the use of remote controls, keypads or intercoms. Sliding gates have the added advantage of closing tightly to the face of the fence or wall, providing a barrier that is tricky to scale.
Nothing swings outwards or inwards, so there is no chance of the gate hitting a parked car, wall, or person.
Why They Suit Many Properties
Sliding gates are very space efficient. When a driveway rises steeply from the road, a swing gate can hit the house before it even opens. A sliding gate works well with a design that is space constrained.
They are effective for wide entries, as a long slide gate can follow the boundary instead of needing a large arc of clear space.
Track or Cantilever?
There are two main systems. Track gates run on a rail set into the ground, which is a simple and inexpensive system that does have its disadvantages. Leaves and stones can obstruct them. Cantilever gates do not have this problem because they are supported by a frame that does not touch the ground along the opening, making them better for irregular or gravel surfaces.
Your installer will be able to make the best recommendation after surveying the site taking into account slope, surface and available space beside the gate.
Materials and Style
Gates can be made from different materials. Steel can be formed to create different shapes. Aluminium is light and durable and is available in a range of colours. Timber gives a traditional look and suits country properties and older style homes.
Consider things like your desired level of privacy, as well as the appearance of your fence. Choose the type of boards and spacing to achieve seclusion, or go with open latticework to show off your garden.
Safety First
Modern systems incorporate sensors that reverse or stop the gate if anything is in the way. Photocells can be placed at the entrance of the driveway to protect children or pets. This additional feature is very valuable if children or pets use the driveway.
Only have professionals carry out installation. Make sure they understand the importance of a manual release and battery back up to ensure the gate can still be used in a power outage.
Access Control Options
There are many ways you can open sliding gates:
- Handheld remote controls for every vehicle
- Keypads for the family and frequent guests.
- Check who is at the gate using an audio or video intercom.
- Smartphone-based controls
Choose a system that works best for you. Families with lots of deliveries may want to go with a video intercom system. Or a family that doesn’t need 2 way communications may just go with remotes.
Planning and Permissions
You will need to ensure you have the proper planning permissions before ordering your gates. This is dependent on factors such as height, if the gate opens onto a highway, and if the property is in a conservation area or is listed. You will need to plan for the power supply and groundworks, so ensure to perform a detailed site survey.
Keeping Them Running Smoothly
To get the longest possible life from your gate, keep it clean, and make sure moving parts are lubricated and tracks are clear. Wiping down the gate and checking remote batteries is work that should be done quarterly. Having your gate serviced yearly allows an engineer to perform the same routine checks and test the gate’s safety features.
A Practical Upgrade
Sliding electric gates offer security and convenience with a good design that saves space. They aren’t cheap, so be sure to look through the styles and talk to professionals.
A well-designed entrance can impress visitors and increase the value of your property. A thoughtful design and placement of an entrance can offer numerous other advantages.