Agate is a basic security measure most people have. Often used at the entrance, they help limit and control access to and from the area. However, unlike regular gates, automated gates do more than just restrict access. They offer convenience and flexibility. If you are interested in these gates, this simple guide offers all the information you need on these mechanized gates.
What is an automatic gate?
An automatic gate is a gate that uses electric motors to open and close the gate. This is also known as gate automation, which allows you to conveniently open and closes your gate from the comfort of your car. To do this, you need a transmitter such as a button or a card that sends a message to a receiver with your command to open the gate. You can add these gate automation mechanisms to an existing gate. Alternatively, you could get the full automated gate package.
Automatic gates consist of two basic parts: the gate and the gate operator. The gate provides the physical barrier that you should move to gain access. The gate operator, on the other hand, is the mechanism that opens and closes the gate. Most automatic gate operators are electric but can either be chain- driven, gear-driven or use hydraulics.
Types of automated gates
There are 6 different types of automatic gates. These include
1.The sliding gate- this is the most commonly used type, especially for light-duty applications. The gate is mounted parallel to the inner side of the fence, and it slides horizontally along a metal track to open or close.
2.The cantilever gate – it's quite similar to the sliding gate, but it doesn't run on a metal track on the ground. It used tracks that run along the inside of the surrounding fence.
3.The swinging gate – these are gates hinged on one side that open like a door. They can consist of a single or double leaf design and are often used in residential applications.
4.The vertical liftgate – this gate moves vertically along a railing installed on the fence. It is ideal for situations where there's limited space available to open the gate. They are fast and reliable, but their appearance makes them unsuitable for residential applications.
The vertical pivot lift gate – this gate rotates in and out to open and close the entrance. It hinges on a pivotal point and is supported entirely by the gate operator.
5.The bi-fold gate – this gate comprises two gate parts that are hinged together and roll back when the gate is activated. This gate is often used in pairs as each pair controls one side of the gate.
6.The barrier arm gate – this includes a horizontally suspended pole that acts as the gate. It is lifted to allow access. However, due to its simplistic design, it's not very secure.
A quality automatic gate should offer years of trouble-free service and protection. That's why you should make smart investments as they can make a whole world of difference. Before getting an automatic gate installed, do some research, find something that best suits your needs, sticks to a budget, and shop around to get a competitive price. This simple guide should be enough to help you make the right choice.
