6 Things to Know Before Getting an Automated Gate

by Pathlie Lee Business consultant

Automated gates do more than help safeguard your loved ones, privacy, and property. An automatic gate installation also ramps up convenience, sheer grace, and adds value to your property when you decide to sell. Installing automatic electric gates can, however, be a sophisticated process that might need prior planning to execute with success.

Here are the six gems of information to know in advance to flush out any hustles when getting a properly working—and excellent craftsmanship—in your automated gate installation.

What is the Best Type of Automated Gate for You?

The rule of thumb is to ask an expert. For example, a leading automated gates installation company in Simi Valley/Oak Park up to Goleta such as Perimeter Security Systems can help you decide the best gate for your needs after a free-of-charge consultation.

Here’s why:

There are several automatic gate designs, manufacturers, openers, prices, spare part availability and expertise for any single need you might have for it. The insider information you get could be excellent for helping you strike an excellent balance in terms of your security, budget, privacy, and personality.

Are Automated Gates Safe?

An automatic gate combines the security you need, the convenience you want, and the first impression you deserve.

Expect safety photocells or an external unlocking key to release the gate in case there’s a power outage, for example.

You can also install one that comes with keypad transmitters, intercom system to know who’s at the gate from a distance, and even a smartphone app to conveniently open/close or allow/disallow certain people in/out of your property. No need to come out of your car to open your driveway gate here.

How Much Does an Automated Gate Cost?

The gates are cheaper than ever, although it’ll still depend on the design, manufacturer, quality, security system sophistication, material, gate kit, and quality of automatic gate installation service you use.

An automatic gate motor can cost anywhere between $850 to $1,500, for example. More affordable solar-powered automatic gates are available, too. Also keep in mind wrought iron/steel, bifold, single/double, swinging/sliding automated gates all cost different.

Can You Automate an Existing Gate?

Yes, you can. In fact, that might be cheaper.

But you’ll need a professional assessment to determine what type of gate opener installation you may need, for example.

If your gate is on a slope, as another example, you’ll need rising hinges to open/close properly.

How Much Does an Automatic Gate Installation Cost?

The best rule of thumb:

See if you can get an installation quote from a professional to help you budget in advance. Some offer fixed cost packages that include future repair and maintenance. But all offer varying warranties.

How Often Should I Service my Automated Gate?

An experienced automatic gate installer will tell you factors such as gate construct, material, weight, size, age, and the elements affect this.

Using a skilled installer will help ensure everything works as it should for the longest time.

Speaking of…

Should You Install an Automated Gate Yourself?

Here’s the thing:

- Can you determine whether a swinging or sliding automated gate is best for your sloping driveway or underground parking?

- Either choice demands delicately and precisely laid cables to avoid failing your electricity supply as well as top-notch sealing to lock out cable-cutting insects

- Swinging gates need deeply buried and cemented in posts to avoid sagging and getting stuck

- Sliding gates need excellently laid railing to avoid bumpy spots that can stop it or cause it to stop on a car or person

And there you have them. Getting a professional automatic gate installation can save you more money and frustration by ensuring your gate operates seamlessly.