Automatic gate systems

The biggest mistake in gate automation is starting with the operator

An operator cannot correct a gate that drags, twists, binds, or sags. Attaching an operator to a gate with an existing mechanical problem can place additional strain on the equipment.

When we design a new automatic entrance, we evaluate the gate and operator together. When automating an existing gate, we first determine whether the gate itself is suitable for automation.

Before automation is added, the gate should

• Fit the opening correctly
• Move freely
• Remain properly aligned
• Clear the ground
• Have appropriate support posts
• Use hardware suited to the gate
• Be compatible with the intended movement

Automatic swing gates

Commonly used for residential driveways, estate entrances, apartment communities, and selected commercial properties. Planning accounts for gate width, weight, wind exposure, driveway slope, vehicle stacking, support posts and direction of travel.

If the driveway rises sharply behind the entrance, a standard gate may not have enough ground clearance to open. Our custom gate fabrication lets us consider the actual grade before the gate is built.

Automatic sliding gates

Useful when the entrance does not have enough open area for swing gates or when vehicle stacking space needs to remain available inside the property.

A sliding gate requires sufficient clear space along the fence for travel — that area should not be routinely blocked by landscaping, parked vehicles, stored materials, or other obstructions.

Automatic cantilever gates

Supported from beside the opening rather than relying on a ground track across the driveway — frequently appropriate for larger commercial and industrial entrances.

The total frame extends beyond the clear opening because part of the gate serves as a counterbalance. For large properties, see our commercial and industrial gates.

Sloped properties

With a swing gate, the driveway may prevent the gate from opening without dragging. With a sliding or cantilever system, changing elevations affect support locations and clear travel. A poorly designed gate on a slope may create repeated problems with ground clearance, alignment, hinges, rollers, operator load and closing position.

We measure and evaluate the grade before selecting the gate design.

Power and equipment planning

Automatic gates require a reliable source of operating power, and the project may also involve power for entry devices or communications equipment.

Planning should occur before finished pavement, columns, landscaping, or other site improvements make routing power more difficult. When electrical or communications work falls outside our scope, it should be coordinated with the appropriate contractor.

During a power outage

The method for operating or releasing the gate during an outage depends on the operator and entrance configuration.

Property owners and managers should understand the appropriate procedure for the installed equipment rather than waiting until an outage occurs. For commercial and managed properties, the emergency procedure should also be communicated to the people responsible for the property.

A large moving object

Its design should account for vehicles and pedestrians who may be near the entrance while it operates. Depending on the system, the project may incorporate appropriate detection or safety devices related to gate movement.

Pedestrians should have a practical path through the property, and entry equipment should not require drivers to stop within the gate’s travel area.

Problems come from the gate or the equipment

A gate may stop working properly because it drags, binds, moves out of alignment, has damaged hinges or rollers, has a bent frame, or has a shifting support post. The problem may also involve the operator or access-control equipment.

High-use gates should be monitored for changes in alignment, ground clearance, hinges, rollers, gate travel, frame condition, hardware and operator performance. A small mechanical issue can place unnecessary strain on the operator if it is ignored.

One entrance, planned as one system

We work with homeowners, property managers, general contractors, businesses, apartment communities, industrial properties, municipalities, and qualifying government projects. Tell us about the gate, the opening, and how the entrance is used.