Manually operated gates can almost always be retrospectively fitted with automation – although one or two modifications maybe required – and is a fantastic upgrade, resulting in no more getting out of the car to gain access. As well as the convenience, automated gates are great for enhancing security and with many insurers now recognising them as a major deterrent, you may save money on your vehicle and household premiums. They can be customised with various control devices, which can be as simple, or as tech-y as you like and the addition of locking mechanisms also means that once they’re closed, they’ll remain secure.
It’s possible to find all sorts of gate automation and gate equipment online, usually at a really low price and we understand the temptation to go down this route. However, the installation of gates and automation is a very niche skill; covered by the Health & Safety Executive, who will prosecute both the company and person who carried out the work, in the event of the gates causing injury or worse, fatality.
All too often we hear from customers whose gates have suddenly stopped working and how they’re unable to contact the original installer to fix the issues. Sadly, when we visit, we usually find that the work carried out reflects poor workmanship, a lack of knowledge in making sure the gates are safe, and inferior products used, which can severely impact both the gate’s performance and durability. Poor-quality materials might lead to issues like misalignment, mechanical strain, and accelerated wear, ultimately causing the gate to function inefficiently or even malfunction. This is especially critical in moving parts, electrical components, or structural materials, where subpar items may struggle to withstand regular usage, exposure to the elements, or the mechanical demands of automated gates.
In short, using quality, compatible materials are essential to ensure your gates operate smoothly and reliably over a relatively long period time. Whilst the Health & Safety Executive’s stringent regulations for Electric Gates places the onus for meeting their standards on the company carrying out the work, you should feel confident that the company you’ve selected is able to abide by those requirements as ultimately a civil suit may be brought against you if your gates cause damage, injury or fatality.
The same HSE rules apply; before we start work on your electric gates (particularly if we’ve not visited you before), we’ll need to carry out an assessment (just the same as any other company attending will), so that we can be sure that the current regulations are met. We’ll let you know if any issues are found, but generally, if a reputable company has regularly looked after your gates, they should be fully compliant.
If your current automation is old, the motors will possibly be 230-volt, which will now only meet the HSE requirements if there are a number of safety devices applied. Most automation used today is 24-volt and is not always compatible with other existing parts, so it may be necessary to have some new safety devices applied as well.
Age and frequency of use will undoubtedly take a toll on motors/control boards (average life expectancy these days can be anything from eight to ten years – if regularly serviced) so there’ll come a time when it’s no longer possible/practical to repair parts and a new system becomes a more economical solution. Rest assured we’ll always do our very best to provide you with a cost-effective upgrade.
The average residential property only needs an Annual Service carried out at some point during the course of a year, whereas a gated development – with several properties on site, commercial premises, or schools will need a minimum of a Bi-annual Service or potentially Quarterly servicing – depending on the number of openings/closings during the course of a day/week. We offer Service Contracts to cover all three of the above scenarios.
This preventive approach can save on more significant repairs down the line and will keep your gates functioning reliably (well-maintained gates operate more smoothly and experiencing fewer interruptions means you’re less likely to face inconvenient malfunctions, or find yourself having to manually move gates that should operate automatically). With daily use, parts like hinges, motors, and control systems naturally experience wear. Regular servicing can catch early signs of deterioration, helping to prevent breakdowns. Also, electric gates are required to have safety features (like sensors) to detect obstacles and prevent accidents. Your servicing will include checks to make sure they’re fully functional – reducing risks of injury or damage. You’ll also be advised if the gates no longer meet the HSE regulations (the standards are updated from time to time) and you’ll be advised of what’s necessary to bring your system up to date and fully compliant once again.
Depending on the material your gates are crafted from will determine the extent of what’ll need to be done to keep them looking fresh. Metal gates/metal framed gates clad in composite boards or aluminium will simply require a wipe down with a damp cloth that has been soaked in a mild detergent – this will help remove any build-up of algae. Hardwood gates may have been installed with or without a treatment applied. An oil treatment can be applied at any time, so long as the gates are completely dry/free of moisture. They’ll also require a period of time to dry, which will vary on the product you use (we’d generally recommend the spring when the weather is not usually hot, frosts are no longer occurring and periods of prolonged dry weather are more likely). Metal framed gates clad in hardwood will be maintained with the combination of both of the above.
