Name: 4 Sure Gates
Address: 4 Sure Gates - Repair & Installation 5400 Kennedale st, Fort Worth, TX, 76140, US
Telephone: (817) 965-7873

Pros and Cons of Various Sliding Gates

February 24, 2022

new automatic Sliding Gates in Dallas Texas

Sliding doors have come a long way—researchers discovered the earliest variations in Pompeii built in the first century. Modern sliding doors and gates follow the same concept, a doorway on a track with multiple benefits but far more advanced in security, automation, and durability.

4 Sure Gates has had many customers consider and request sliding gate installation because of their many benefits, as we will discuss below. But choosing the right type of sliding gate depends on what’s well-suited for your property. Each type has its benefits and downsides.

To make an informed decision on the type of sliding gate to get, consider the following pros and cons.

Rolling Electric Gates

Pros of Rolling Electric Gates:

It’s a commonly used gate, making it the most accessible option for private residential and commercial uses. They’re also ideal for wide driveways and take up less space than swinging gates as they will roll over a track and out of the way instead of needing space to swing in an arc.

These sliding gates often have an electronic system that allows homeowners to open them automatically. It’s more convenient to use and more secure as you don’t need to step out of your vehicle to open the gate. They can also close and lock automatically behind you.

Cons of Rolling Electric Gates:

Rolling electric gates are very large and heavy, especially for larger driveways. Should there be any malfunction with the gate’s motors or internal systems, for example, when dampness or moisture penetrates it, the gate will not operate. It’ll be far too heavy and troublesome to open on your own.

Furthermore, as these are the types of gates that don’t rely on a track and have sophisticated motors that enable them to function this way, they’re often more expensive than other gates by roughly a couple of hundred dollars.

V Track Electric Sliding Gates

Pros of V Track Electric Sliding Gates:

These gates use a V-shaped track where the gate runs along upon opening. They are ideal for use in commercial and private areas. Still, they are more suited for large commercial properties, especially those requiring high security, and frequently let in delivery trucks and other vehicles. This is more stable than the standard electric gates because the track keeps the gate in place.

Cons of V Track Electric Sliding Gates:

This is not a good gate for areas that get plenty of snow, as you’ll have to ensure that there is no debris on the track. Otherwise, the debris will cause the gates to jam and potentially cause damage to the system. Furthermore, the rolling wheels of the slide gate are susceptible to wear on the track.

Cantilever Sliding Gate

Pros of Cantilever Sliding Gates:

Because these gates don’t touch the ground, there’s no concern about tracks and wearing down wheels. It doesn’t need support from below to open the gate as well. The elevated gate has rails on either side, making it an ideal choice for driveways that have uneven or pebbled ground. It’s also suitable for areas with plenty of snow.

Cons of Cantilever Sliding Gates:

It takes up much more space than other sliding gates. They typically need 50% more space than the other sliding gate types because of the beams and suspensions of the cantilever. If you have limited space in your driveway, this is not a good gate to choose.

Consult with Specialists About Your Gate

Electric gates and sliding gates of all varieties need to be expertly and carefully installed to ensure that they are built and applied correctly to your driveway. If you’re unsure about the type of sliding gate that best suits your driveway, it’s crucial to consult with professionals who can give you more knowledgeable insight about the right fit.

4 Sure Gates has designed and installed private and commercial electric sliding gates for properties throughout Texas for years.

Contact us today for a consultation, and start designing the perfect gate for your home and get it installed as soon as possible!

How to Choose the Right Type of Metal Gate for Your Driveway

February 17, 2022

If there’s one thing you can add to your property that improves its security and overall appearance, it’s a driveway gate. Adding a driveway gate will:

Protect your home from an array of threats, including trespassers and stray animals
Boost your home’s curb appeal, depending on the gate design you choose
Increase your overall property value because of the practical benefits mentioned above

If you want to maximize the aesthetic appeal and security that a driveway gate can provide, you need to choose the right type of material. As gate installation and repair experts, we know different materials have unique benefits. But for the purposes mentioned above, you should consider a metal gate.

Types of Metal Driveway Gates

Metal gates are sturdy, lasting longer than gates made from other materials like wood or vinyl. Apart from their durability against wear and tear over time, metal gates can also withstand more force, such as a vehicle crashing and hitting them.

With that said, you have plenty of options for the type of metal you want your gate to be. Each of these has different benefits, which we will discuss below.

Steel Gates

Steel is the most heavy-duty metal used in creating driveway gates. It can withstand the day-to-day force exerted when opening or closing a gate, as well as the force from sudden impact, like when something crashes into the gate.

Steel gates are also resistant to corrosion, thanks to the galvanizing and priming of the material. This makes steel gates low maintenance. With occasional surface cleaning and lubricating the hinges, your steel gate will protect your home for a long time.

Aluminum Gates

Unlike steel, aluminum is not the most heavy-duty material. Instead, it’s lightweight, which is its main benefit. It’s ideal for larger gates without having to worry about it sagging from its weight or being misaligned.

Though aluminum gates are not as robust as steel gates, they’re far from flimsy either. They can withstand natural wear and tear and are also highly resistant to rust.

Being made from lightweight material, aluminum gates are also easy to install. They also make for great automatic or electric gates because the gate motor won’t have to work as hard to open and close them.

Available in different colors, designs, and styles, aluminum gates provide the beauty and security of steel gates without the cost associated with it.

Wrought Iron Gates

Like steel, wrought iron is a heavy-duty material. Highly durable and malleable at the same time, this type of metal makes for perfectly secure and beautiful driveway gates.

Wrought iron gates are not susceptible to dents and bending, and can withstand shock damage. And with wrought iron being an iron alloy, it’s much more corrosion-resistant than regular iron.

The material’s malleability is its main benefit. You can have a wrought iron gate with an impressive, intricate decorative design since wrought iron can be shaped into all sorts of patterns. With a beautiful wrought iron gate, your home’s value is sure to increase.

Install Metal Gates for Your Driveway

Now that you know the benefits of metal gates and the different materials you can choose from, it’s time to equip your driveway with one.

4 Sure Gates offers metal gate design and installation services for homes in Fort Worth, TX and surrounding areas. Check out our gate designs today.

How to Keep Your Driveway Gate Safe From Pests

February 10, 2022

Automatic electric gates are convenient additions to homes—they make your property more secure while making it easier for you to get through your driveway without having to get in and out of your car.

But just like any piece of equipment, automatic gates need proper care and maintenance. This is especially true as gates are exposed to the elements, making them susceptible to more than just wear and tear.

One of the most overlooked risks to your automatic driveway gates is pest infestation. Depending on the material your gate is made from, it might be more prone to insects and other critters than others.

How Pests Damage Your Automatic Driveway Gate

There are different pests that can infest your automatic gates, including:

Snails & Slugs

Snails and slugs can often be found crawling outdoors, especially when your outdoor space has plenty of plants. As such, it’s not a stretch to see them crawling on your driveway gate, too.

But harmless as they may seem, the slime trails they leave behind can reach your automatic gate’s circuit board, resulting in moisture buildup that damages it.

Ants

Ants can build a colony almost anywhere, even near or on your automatic gate’s equipment. If your gate’s motor is on the ground or close to it, ants are something you have to look out for since they can corrode your gate’s circuitry and damage the motor.

Spiders

You may see spider webs form between the railings of your driveway gate, but that’s not the extent of the problem they pose. Similar to a snail’s slime, the webs can cause moisture buildup if they crowd the circuit board.

Mice

Mice are notorious for chewing through electrical gate wirings, affecting your gate’s ability to open, close, and lock properly.

Termites

If your automatic gate is made from wood, you also have to worry about termite infestation. Though the gate material is treated and sealed to make it suitable for outdoor conditions, termites can still tunnel their way through the wood, causing your gate to rot and compromising its structural integrity.

How to Prevent or Resolve Pest Problems Near Your Automatic Gate

Getting rid of pests can be a daunting task, so it’s best to call in a pest control professional. However, there are maintenance steps you can follow to prevent pests from ruining your automatic driveway gate.

1. Always Clear the Area Around Your Automatic Driveway Gate

Avoid unwanted pests from getting near your automatic gate by making sure the surrounding area is clear. Get rid of pools of standing water, heaps of fallen leaves and branches, or garbage.

2. Clean Your Automatic Driveway Gate Regularly

Though gates can function with little maintenance, it’s still a good idea to clean yours regularly. Wash and wax your gate at least once every few months and make sure no pests are making their home in or around it.

3. Spray Your Gate with Pesticide

Keeping your gates clean should be enough, but as extra protection, you may choose to spray outdoor pesticides around your gate to keep pests away. You can do this once in a while or after every time you clean your gate.

Pests Got Your Driveway Gate?

If your gate needs repair after being damaged by pests, you can turn to 4 Sure Gates for help. Our Dallas-Fort Worth, TX-based team has over 2 decades of experience in electric automatic gate repair and installation.

Get in touch today to schedule an appointment.

How to Fix Automatic Gates That Make Noise

February 03, 2022

Automatic gates provide plenty of advantages, from privacy and safety to convenience and aesthetic appeal. But while automatic gates are leagues better than manual ones, they can still be susceptible to problems, especially since they’re exposed to the elements.

One of the most common issues with automatic gates is the squeaky, grinding noise they make. The noises your automatic gate makes may be caused by different things, some of which are easily resolved while others may require professional help.

Below we help you troubleshoot your noisy automatic gates!

1. Check for a Lack of Lubrication

One of the most common causes of squeaky noises from automatic gates is a lack of lubrication. Your gate’s bearings, clogs, and gears are all moving parts that need to stay properly lubricated to work. This makes movement against the surfaces of each moving part smoother.

On the other hand, a lack of lubrication makes it hard for the gears to move. The squeaky noise occurs as the dry surfaces grind against each other.

Applying grease to all moving parts should solve this problem.

2. Check for a Dirty Motor

Over time, your automatic gate’s motor can become filled with moisture, dirt, and other debris since it’s exposed to the elements. Not only will this result in the motor making noises but it will also cause the gate to open slower.

If you have a brush motor, the brushes will likely need to be replaced. Otherwise, you can clean the motor according to the manufacturer’s recommendation.

You can go further and avoid this problem in the future by upgrading to impermeable weatherproof housing for your gate’s motor.

3. Check if the Battery is Low

Sometimes, the noise automatic gates emit isn’t a grinding or creaking sound, but insistent beeps instead. If that’s the case, your gate operator may have run out of charge. This usually happens after a power outage or if the battery is nearing the end of its lifespan.

To avoid this problem, simply replace the battery of your gate’s operator. Make sure to also have a backup on-hand in case of an emergency.

4. Check for Poor Installation On Your Automatic Gates

Automatic gates should be installed by professionals, especially since they require a certain level of knowledge about wirings. However, despite the task involving wirings, there aren’t regulations that limit its installation to professionals. Some people opt to install their electric gates themselves.

One of the consequences of poorly installed automatic gates is misalignment, which makes your gate emit a loud noise when being opened or closed. If this happens, it’s not something you can fix on your own.

Make sure to call a professional gate installation company to help fix the problem.

Repair Your Automatic Gates with the Help of True & Local Professional Gate Installers!

4 Sure Gates is a Fort Worth-based gate repair and installation company. We have a team of gate repair experts with over 20 years of combined experience repairing and installing gate equipment.

If your Fort Worth home’s automatic gate makes noises or you encounter any other problem, contact 4 Sure Gates at (817) 965-7873.

How to Measure for a Driveway Gate

January 24, 2022

If you haven’t thought about installing a driveway gate, you should consider doing so for security benefits and numerous other reasons. Having a driveway gate is one of the top 10 best ways to deter thieves and burglaries. While it won’t completely deter all thieves, having a good driveway gate is an excellent step towards securing your property.

4 Sure Gates has years of experience creating and installing driveway gates for many clients across Texas. One of the first things that any homeowner should do if they’re getting a driveway gate installed is to make the proper measurements. A driveway gate is an excellent method of improving security, but only if it’s correctly fitted to the driveway or the necessary gap in the fence.

Here are the key steps to measuring your driveway for gate installation.

Look At Your Driveway Size

Some of the most common gate sizes in the US are 10, 12, 14, and 16 feet. Your driveway itself should measure roughly between 9-24 feet. Often, many properties are at the lower end of this scale, with just enough room to accommodate a vehicle coming through. Measure the length of your driveway with a long tape measure to find out what size your property has.

Considering this measurement, the gate you choose should be slightly wider than the entrance itself. For example, a driveway that measures roughly nine feet across will need a ten-foot gate. If the gate is closer to ten feet, opt for the 12-foot gate.

Consider The Vehicle You Drive

The gate’s size also depends on the vehicles passing through. Do you drive an SUV, truck, or car? A smaller gate won’t be an issue if you drive a car. But larger vehicles and recreational vehicles like RVs need more space to turn, thus needing a wider gate. They may be unable to pull in properly if the gate is too small.

However, having too wide a gate will not suit some homes and properties. This is because the larger the gate, the more costly it is. Furthermore, as the gate size goes up, so do maintenance costs. You have to keep it rust-free, well-oiled, and in the case of mechanical gates, the motor needs to be kept dry and in good condition.

Double vs Single Driveway Gate

While the gate’s width is usually straightforward, deciding whether you’d prefer a double or single gate can be a bit more difficult. First, consider which direction you want your gate to swing. Remember that your vehicle must have enough room to pass, but there must also be ample room for the gate to swing in the direction of choice. With a double gate, both sides of the driveway must have the space for the swing.

Let’s say you have a driveway that fits a 12-foot gate. You could select a gate with a single outward swing, which means you need enough space for a 90-degree arc at the very least. You don’t want the gate to go too far out into the road, as it might obstruct pedestrians and other cars. Make sure you measure enough space that the gate does not swing out into the road.

Consult With Professionals On Your Driveway Gate

If you’re still unsure about your gate’s correct size and position, you should always contact professionals. Their expertise will help you properly assess and measure the right size of driveway gate for you.

4 Sure Gates has years of experience measuring and installing driveway gates of all sizes and types. Our technicians can provide you with accurate assessments and even a detailed installation plan to take on all the effort of putting your driveway gate together.

Contact us today to get a consultation and just relax as your gate gets installed.

4 Basic Automatic Iron Gate Issues and Ways To Repair Them

January 17, 2022

Iron gates are a popular choice for security and privacy but installing one can be a costly endeavor. But with regular use, repairs will inevitably need to be made at some point. That’s why at the first sign of even minor damages to your wrought iron gate, it’s best to act quickly to repair them.

Here are four common issues on iron gates and some ways to repair them.

Iron Gates Rusting

Rusting is how iron reacts with oxygen in the air producing corrosion products, like water, ferric oxides, and hydrated ferric oxides. This type of damage happens when moisture gets inside the gate through cracks or holes in the metal surface, leading to the oxidization of iron molecules.

Fortunately, it’s possible to deal with rust by sanding and repainting the affected area of the iron gate. If the damage has already occurred, then you can fix it by applying a rust-inhibiting primer or a paint specially formulated for use on iron.

Scratches And Other Minor Damages

There really isn’t much of a contest between manual and automatic gates in terms of security. The aforementioned risks with manual gates aren’t present with automatic gates.

You can remotely open the gate, drive through with your car without getting out, then close the gate behind you. It’s incredibly convenient.

Bolt cutters are useless. Burglars will need specialized electrical knowledge to get past.

Many automatic gates also have features that allow you to monitor who enters and exits your premises. It will, in most cases, eliminate the need for other security solutions.

Denting

Dents are like permanent gouges and scratches, but unlike scrapes, they don’t go all the way through to bare metal. One of the best ways to repair dents is by applying a filler.

First, you’ll need to sand the damaged area then apply the filler to fill the dent. Once the filler hardens, you need to smoothen it again through sanding. Afterward, you can proceed with repainting the area.

It’s unlikely that the new paint will match the old one, so this is a great opportunity for you to repaint the entire gate with something new.

Loose Hinges And Sagging Iron Gates

These are very common and can cause a lot of damage if not addressed in time. They mostly occur because the bolts holding them together wear out from regular use, so tighten those bolts regularly so your gates will function smoothly.

Aside from loose hinges, sagging can also be caused by the following issues:

Leaning Support Post: The gate will eventually drag if the support post starts to lean. The support posts need to be reinstalled when this happens.
Presence of soil: The hinges and other gate components may be affected by soil and other debris, causing issues like sagging. Take the time to inspect your gate, have it cleaned, and oiled if necessary.
Gate operator issue: Choosing the right operators is crucial to your gate’s performance. If the operator is too big or too small, the gate may start to sag. Be sure to install the right operator or replace the old one with the correct one.

Gate Repair Doesn’t Have To Be Difficult

Iron gates are a popular choice for security and privacy. They come in a variety of styles and can be customized to fit any home or business. But with regular use, repairs will inevitably need to be made at some point.

Thankfully, you now know the basics involved in repairing some of the most common iron gate issues. Always remember to clean your gates regularly and tighten bolts as needed to prevent these problems from happening in the first place.

If you feel like you’re not up to the task of repairing your iron gate, don’t fret. Consider reaching out to a professional to help restore your gate.

4 Sure Gates is a trusted automatic gate repair and installation company. If you need an iron gate repaired, contact us today. Our team would be happy to provide you with a free estimate and help you with all the repairs.

Must-Know Types of Gate Lubricants for Maintenance

January 10, 2022

Regularly lubricating your gate or garage door prevents damage and increases its lifespan. That’s an estimated $100 to $400 that you can potentially save on repair and maintenance costs.

Most cans of lubricants will cost you no more than $10, and they contain enough product for several uses. Below are the top gate lubricants recommended by experts:

1. White Lithium Grease Lubricants

Lithium grease works wonders for reducing friction, especially on gate parts with metal-to-metal contact. It comes in easy-to-use spray cans and is fairly simple to apply. Plus, it doesn’t stain, cake, or budge when exposed to extreme weather conditions.

This top-grade product is safe to use on all moving parts, including the electrical operators, cables, springs, latches, and chains of your gate.

However, the downside is that it tends to accumulate grit and grime because it only stays on the surface rather than soak into parts. Remember to use it sparingly and always check for dirt buildup.

2. Regular Grease Lubricants

Standard grease works well for closed mechanisms but not so much for exposed parts like chains and hinges. Because grease collects dirt and grime, exposure to dust particles forms an abrasive surface that can damage the moving parts of your automatic gate or garage door.

If you live in a windy area, it’s best to consider other types of lubrication.

3. Silicone-Based Spray Lubricants

Silicone sprays are superior to lithium greases since they are less messy and easier to apply. They are also water-resistant—they won’t wash off after a rain shower. Likewise, they penetrate well into components such as springs and hinges, ensuring better lubricating performance and protection.

Silicone lubricants are also ideal for extremely hot and cold regions since they can withstand harsh temperatures.

4. Oil-Based Lubricants

There are also oil-based alternatives. However, they’re not always a reliable option. They have a thinner consistency and wear off more quickly than most silicone-based lubricants and lithium greases. Additionally, oil-based lubricants tend to be less effective in extremely hot or cold environments.

How to Choose the Best Lubricant for Your Gate

Some types of lubricants work more efficiently on specific parts of your gate. Ideally, you should be using two different products.

For example, spray-based lubricants work best on wheels and hinges. They often come with thin, reusable straws that allow you to aim the product accurately.

Meanwhile, grease lubricants are ideal for rails and tracks. While they can be a pain to apply, they guarantee maximum protection and lubrication.

Reliable Gate Experts in Fort Worth, TX

If you’re not sure what type of lubricant to use, don’t hesitate to ask for help from the experts at 4 Sure Gates. We provide complete gate repair and maintenance for both manual and automatic systems.

If you plan to upgrade to an automated system, you can also turn to us for quick and cost-effective installations. We can fully customize your gate to match your property’s unique demands.

Get dependable gate services without breaking the bank. Reach out to us today to receive a free quote.

Manual vs Automatic: Which Gates Offer Better Home Security?

January 03, 2022

If you’re concerned about the safety of your home, one of the best ways to improve security is to have a gate installed. On top of acting as a physical barrier against intruders, gates are also deterrents. Burglars looking for an easy mark are less likely to target your house when you have a gate.

But which would be better for your home, a manual or automatic gate? In this article, we discuss their pros and cons to help you determine which is best for you.

Manual Gates For Home Security

Manual gates need to be opened, closed, and locked by hand. This presents a vulnerability as it takes more time to open. When you get out of your car to open the gate, it gives ill-intentioned individuals an opening.

The locking mechanism itself may also present a risk. If you use a padlock, bolt cutters will be able to cut through them.

However, manual gates are much cheaper than automatic gates. Small entrances would also not need automatic gates as they’re easier to secure with less expensive security options.

Manual models are also easier to maintain. And if there’s a power outage, you don’t have to worry about not being able to open them.

Automatic Gates For Home Security

There really isn’t much of a contest between manual and automatic gates in terms of security. The aforementioned risks with manual gates aren’t present with automatic gates.

You can remotely open the gate, drive through with your car without getting out, then close the gate behind you. It’s incredibly convenient.

Bolt cutters are useless. Burglars will need specialized electrical knowledge to get past.

Many automatic gates also have features that allow you to monitor who enters and exits your premises. It will, in most cases, eliminate the need for other security solutions.

Extra Functions

Automatic gates come with optional extra functions for increased convenience and security. It can be equipped with sensors that automatically open the gate when a car with the corresponding remote approaches. Audiovisual systems work particularly well with automatic gates by allowing you to see visitors and allow them entry from the safety of your home.

Unique and Varied Styles

Automatic gates are typically more aesthetically pleasing. There’s a wider selection of materials and styles to choose from, and they have a more seamless appearance. This adds curb appeal and resale value to your property.

The Downsides

Automatic gates have several clear advantages over manual gates, but they also have their disadvantages:

More Expensive:

As mentioned before, automatic gates are much more expensive, especially if you decide to add optional features. Manual modes cost about $2,500 while automatic models cost about $7,000.

More Maintenance:

Both the gate itself as well as the electronic system it uses need to be maintained. This further adds to the costs.

They Need Power:

Automatic gates are added inconveniences during power outages as the process to manually open them takes longer than with manual models.

More Prep Work:

Depending on the type of automatic gate, you will need a contractor, a landscaper, and an electrician to have one installed.

Have Your Gate Installed Today

Whether you need a manual or automatic gate installation for your home, 4 Sure Gates is here to help keep you safe. We have 15 years of experience providing professional gate services, and we’re happy to fulfill your needs.

Schedule an inspection and get a free estimate for your gate installation by calling us at (817) 965-7873.

What To Consider Before Installing An Automatic Commercial Gate

December 30, 2021

There’s more to installing automatic commercial gates than many business owners realize. Careless gate installation or improper maintenance can lead to accidents and even civil liabilities for businesses.

If you’re thinking of installing automatic security gates for your place of business, there are several things you need to consider first. This article will help walk you through some of the essential things you need before installing automatic gates.

Why Are You Getting A Gate?

It is vital that you first consider what your gate’s purpose will be. Will the commercial gate you’re getting be for added security and privacy or simply for added aesthetics?

If safety is your goal, then you should look into access control measures. If it’s the aesthetics you’re after, you can focus on what type of material would suit your property. Having a clear purpose will make you choose the right automatic gate for your needs.

It’s also important to consider how much foot traffic the gate will be exposed to. Will the gate be closed for most of the week, or will employees and customers require constant access? Knowing the answer to these questions will help you choose the suitable gate motor and access system.

What Type Of Gate You Should Get

Once you have figured out the purpose, it’s time to choose the type of automatic gate system to install. There are different types to choose from, but these three are usually the top picks for commercial spaces:

Swing Gate:

This gate is designed to be hinged on one side and swing open like a large door. Swing gates generally have a 90-degree arc and can open inward or outward. Swing gates are commonly used in residential properties but are also popular among business owners as a low-cost alternative.

Bi-Folding Gate:

This type of gate is made from two panels hinged together. The panels fold back onto themselves when they are activated. Bi-folding gates are used in pairs, with one installed on each gate opening. Bi-folding gates are perfect for properties with limited space and places that require fast opening and closing speeds.

Cantilever Sliding Gate:

This type of gate is suspended above the ground and relies on a counterbalance mechanism to open. Cantilever sliding gates are heavy-duty and weather-resistant. This type of gate is perfect for properties with limited space or requiring high-security entrances.

Having The Right Space

The space of your property almost always dictates the type of automatic door you need to install. Some varieties, like the swinging gate, depend on space to operate, so you need to consider the space you have.

Take precise measurements of your intended gate spaces and note any possible obstacles around them, like walls and trees. By having this information, you can determine the type and size of the automatic gate you should get.

Choose Your Means Of Access

It’s also essential that you consider how people will be accessing your gate. Your choice here will largely depend on how often the gate will be used and how secure you want it to be. There are a lot of sophisticated access control measures available. Here are some of the popular ones:

Keycard:

This allows access using unique electronic cards that can be tapped, inserted, or scanned.

Smart Key:

This is an electronic key used to open automatic gates. It works similarly to a standard key, but the locking mechanism is done digitally. You can either insert the smart key in an electronic keyhole or tap on a scanner.

Phone/App Entry:

This option allows you to open or close your gate using a dedicated app. It will enable users to lock or unlock the gate through the internet, even if they are currently in another city.

Fingerprint Reader:

This type of access allows entry by having your fingerprints scanned. All recorded fingerprints will be granted access, while others will remain locked out. This option is excellent for those needing another layer of security.

Remote Control:

Most commonly used in garage doors, this device allows you to open or close the gates whenever you are within range. While it is not the most sophisticated option, it is the fastest and most efficient access control system.

The importance of automatic commercial gates to your place of business cannot be overstated. However, it’s also crucial for business owners to know exactly what type of gate their property needs and plan its installation. This will avoid unnecessary headaches or costly changes in the future.

4 Sure Gates is an experienced gate repair and installation company offering different gate designs and systems. If you’re looking for the right gate system for your business, contact us today to get a free estimate and a chance to talk to our experts regarding your project.

Space-Saving Automatic Gates: Options for a Limited Space

December 23, 2021

The average size of an American family home is estimated to be around 2,500 square feet. While this size can be considered large, some families continue to live in smaller homes and work with limited space.

Options may seem limited for those living in these smaller homes who want to have their properties protected by automatic gates. Fortunately, there are gate systems available that can operate ideally even if the space is limited.

This article will talk about some automatic gate options you can get for homes and businesses with limited areas.

Automated Bi-Folding Gates

Bi-folding gates have a clever design. Instead of having their gate panels swing open, they fold onto themselves to allow access. This type of gate is often used in pairs, with one pair installed on each side of the opening.

The bi-folding gate’s design allows it to require half the space a traditional swing gate usually needs. This makes bi-folding gates an excellent option for those who have smaller areas to work with.

Traditional models of the bi-folding gate either have a track on the ground or a rail above the gates. These two models have their drawbacks. Tracks require regular maintenance due to their exposure to dirt, debris, and water. Meanwhile, rails limit the height of vehicles that can enter.

Fortunately, there are newer models that no longer rely on tracks and rails. Many modern bi-folding gates are now automated and use sophisticated access controls like keycards and electronic keys.

If you plan to get bi-folding gates, keep in mind that they must be carefully and accurately installed to operate efficiently. Consider working with an experience gate technician when having bi-folding gates installed.

Automatic Sliding Gates

The sliding gate is often regarded as the most commonly used automatic gate due to its simplistic design and ability to operate well in limited spaces.

Slide gates are mounted on rollers and are parallel to the fence or wall. Once activated, the gate slides to the side and behind a wall. Unlike bi-folding gates, a sliding gate doesn’t need space to swing open. It’s this design that makes it an excellent option for properties with limited spaces.

Sliding gates are available in a variety of styles. Here are some of the popular ones:

Cantilever Automatic Gate:
- Many commercial properties rely on cantilever gates for security. Cantilever gates are heavy-duty, durable, and don’t occupy much space. It’s similar to the basic sliding gate, but it is suspended above the ground instead of having rollers.
Bi-Parting Sliding Gate:
- This type of gate looks strikingly similar to a double swing gate. However, both gate panels slide to the side instead of swinging open. This type of gate is used in residential properties.
Around-the-Corner Sliding Gate:
- This type of sliding gate is perfect for areas that don’t have enough wall (parallel) space to accommodate a traditional sliding gate. What the around-the-corner gate does is follow a curved path and it slides to the perpendicular wall instead.

These are some fantastic gate designs that work perfectly, even in properties with minimal spaces. These options can be considered complex designs and may require more planning to be installed properly. Partnering with experienced gate experts should help simplify the installation process.

4 Sure Gates is your trusted automated gate systems expert that’s ready to help you with your gate installation or repair projects. If you plan to get the right gate for your property, contact us today. Our team would be happy to discuss your options and even provide a free estimate.