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

Automatic Gates: How Secure Are They for Your Home?

September 30, 2021

secure Automatic Gates in Dallas, TX

Automatic gates for driveways are a popular option among people who want to enhance the security of their homes. They make sure that small children and pets stay safely within your property while keeping uninvited people and their vehicles out.

Apart from controlling access to your property, automatic gates for driveways can keep your home more secure in the following ways:

Ensuring Privacy

Depending on their height and design, automatic gates can shield your property from the prying eyes of curious neighbors and peeping Toms. They can also keep expensive items, such as luxury cars, hidden from unsavory characters as well as passers-by.

Preventing Burglaries

According to data from the FBI, burglary is among the most common forms of property crime in the US.

Burglars often case a house before trying to break in, so they can identify any vulnerabilities and security features that could put them at risk of discovery. They prefer homes with good accessibility, few or no security devices, and weak entry points.

An imposing automatic driveway gate made of heavy-duty materials can put off would-be burglars, as climbing over it or breaking it open takes too much time and effort. It also makes a lot of noise, which can alert neighbors.

How to Improve Your Automatic Gate’s Security

While automatic driveway gates are resilient and designed to enhance home security, they can be compromised. Here are some common ways an automatic gate can be breached and how to prevent them.

Power Issues

A power outage, or an intruder cutting the power, can prevent your automatic gate from closing or staying closed. For this reason, it’s important to have a backup power source and surge protector.

Brute Force

Ramming a gate with a heavy object such as a vehicle can cause its hinges or lock to break apart. To prevent this, choose a solidly constructed gate and install an additional lock—preferably an electric lock or magnetic one. Regular inspections and maintenance of the hinges can also help keep your gate resilient to brute force attacks.

If you have high-security requirements, a sliding gate is a better choice than a swinging gate. A sliding gate must be pushed off its track to be compromised—an extremely difficult task.

Additional security features such as retractable bollards behind your gate can also help prevent breaches from brute force attacks.

Hacking

In the old days, automatic gate remotes worked by transmitting a code to the gate receiver, which would then unlock it. However, this was not a very secure method, as anyone with the right tools could pick up the code and use it to unlock the gate.

Modern automatic gates come with a rolling or hopping code, an encryption system used in keyless entry devices like car remotes. With rolling codes, your gate remote creates a new code each time it’s used, making it difficult, if not impossible, to capture and replicate.

If you have an old automatic gate, consider having an automatic gate company check if it uses a fixed code or the new rolling code system. If it uses the former, it would be best to replace your gate with a newer one with better security features.

Another option is to install an intercom so that visitors would have to call up to your house, and you’d manually allow them entry by pressing a button.

Turn to the Experts in Automatic Gate Installation & Repair

Automatic gates are a worthwhile investment for homeowners who want to keep their property and loved ones safe from outside threats. While there are some vulnerabilities in automatic gates, these can be quickly addressed through proper maintenance and upgrades.

To learn more about improving the security of your residential property with automatic driveway gates, reach out to us at 4 Sure Gates by calling (817) 965-7873 or filling out our form.

5 Advantages of Automatic Sliding Gates for Homeowners

September 23, 2021

An automated sliding gate also referred to as an automatic or rolling gate, is an increasingly popular choice among homeowners. This type of gate has two wheels fitted on the bottom that run along a metal track. Unlike conventional swing gates that, true to their name, swing open, an automated sliding gate slides along the track to open or close.

Automated sliding gates are convenient. With an automated sliding gate, you won’t have to get out of your vehicle to open or close the gate. This is a feature that you’ll definitely appreciate during rainy or snowy weather.

Automatic sliding gates are an excellent investment for many other reasons. If you’re on the fence about having one installed on your property, here are five benefits that might help you with your decision.

1. Automatic Sliding Gates Help Improve Home Privacy

Installed in a perimeter fence, a solid automated sliding gate helps keep your property away from the view of passers-by and neighbors. You won’t have to worry about unsavory characters seeing your valuables, whether it’s new patio furniture or a collection of luxury vehicles.

2. Automatic Sliding Gates Increase Security

An automated sliding gate allows you to control who gets to enter your property. It will prevent people from manually entering the premises.

Automated sliding gates are also more resilient to physical force than swing gates, making manual intrusion—such as by ramming it with a vehicle—unlikely to be successful. To make them even more secure, you can have a magnetic lock installed. A good-quality magnetic lock can withstand a holding force of at least 1,500 lb.

3. Automatic Sliding Gates Improve Safety

An automated sliding gate is a great option for families with children and pets. It will help prevent them from wandering outside. Additionally, it will help keep out animals and unscrupulous individuals that may want to harm your loved ones.

4. Automatic Sliding Gates Increase Curb Appeal

Curb appeal refers to how attractive your home looks to a person viewing it from the curb or the sidewalk. Improving curb appeal is especially important if you plan on selling your home in the future. Prospective buyers are more likely to want to look inside your home if the exterior is attractive.

Even if you don’t plan to sell your home, having an automated sliding gate installed is still an excellent way to add a “wow” factor to your property. A professionally installed automated sliding gate in an attractive design creates a positive first impression on visitors and passers-by.

5. Automatic Sliding Gates Are Space-Saving

Because of the mechanism of automated sliding gates, they are ideal for smaller properties or homes with short driveways. A sliding gate doesn’t occupy too much space when open, making it easy to park your car or back up from your driveway without hitting the gate.

Have Your Automatic Sliding Gate Installed by 4 Sure Gates

Since 2005, 4 Sure Gates has provided quality gate installation services to homeowners throughout the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex. With more than 15 years of experience, our team can assist you with the professional and efficient installation of your automated driveway gate.

Reach out to us today at (817) 965-7873 for a free consultation.

Should You Invest in a Solar-Powered Gate Opener?

September 16, 2021

Solar-powered gate openers become more popular every year, and because their manufacturing costs have steadily decreased, they’re more accessible now than ever before! And though homeowners get to enjoy many benefits, solar-powered gate openers are not ideal for every property.

4 Sure Gates breaks down the pros and cons before you invest in a solar-powered automatic gate opener.

What are Solar-Powered Gate Openers?

In solar-powered gate openers, solar panels harness energy from the sun to charge the battery instead of drawing it from an outlet. This stored energy is then used to open and close your gate. Unlike conventional automatic gate openers, solar-powered gate opener systems are not dependent on your AC power source.

The amount of energy captured from the sun’s rays depends on the size of the solar panels. If you open and close the gate up to 20 times a day, you need only a 10-watt panel. But if your gates open and close about 100 times a day (usually in multi-family buildings), you might need a 28-watt panel.

To determine the right solar panel for your automatic residential gate opener, ask our expert technicians.

Benefits of Solar-Powered Gate Openers

You Minimize Your Energy Bill

A typical American home pays an average of $115 every month for electricity. Because a solar-powered gate opener isn’t dependent on outlets, it will not add to this bill. The only expenses it entails are the upfront installation costs and maintenance, of course.

In addition, a solar-powered gate opener doesn’t require costly pre-installation preparations. Unlike traditional gate systems that need electrical adjustments, their solar-powered counterparts only need a place to install the panels.

Power Outages Don’t Affect the Gates

If you experience frequent power outages in your area, solar-powered gate openers are your best choice. Reliable batteries store enough energy for up to 10 cycles, even during days with minimal sunlight. You won’t experience the inconvenience of manually opening or closing your gate.

Solar Panels are Scalable

Should you upgrade to a bigger, more powerful automatic gate, you don’t have to replace your panel with a bigger one. You simply add another panel to capture the energy the new gate requires.

Drawbacks of Solar-Powered Gates

It’s Not Ideal for Locations with Limited Sunlight

The solar panels require at least eight hours of unobstructed sunlight to charge a battery fully. If it doesn’t get enough sun rays, it can’t power the cycles sufficiently.

As such, homeowners in rainy locations or places with long winters might be better off with a traditional gate system. In the same vein, solar-powered gate openers aren’t suitable for properties surrounded by dense trees.

It Requires More Maintenance

While solar-powered automatic gates don’t add to your electricity bill, they do require slightly more maintenance. On top of routine maintenance, homeowners have to clean the panels at least twice a year to ensure adequate absorption of sunlight.

Additionally, homeowners need to prune the trees around the panels to prevent the branches from blocking the sun.

If you need professional advice for solar gate openers, contact 4 Sure Gates technicians. We’ll help you determine if a solar gate system meets your property’s requirements.

Call us at (817) 965-7873 or send us a message today.

Four Telltale Signs You Need Residential Gate Replacement

September 09, 2021

An automatic gate can last up to 20 years, but many factors can shorten this lifespan. Harsh weather elements, above-average use, and poor maintenance worsen the effects of wear and tear. And at some point, a gate becomes beyond repair.

In that case, it’s more cost-effective to have your residential gate replaced instead of facing frequent, costly repairs. You’ll save more — and achieve greater peace of mind — if you invest in a brand new gate.

4 Sure Gates compiles four telltale signs you need a gate replacement…now!

1. Defective Safety Features of Your Residential Gate

Residential automatic gates can cause serious injuries, which is why they’re fitted with safety features like sensors and alarms. In fact, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) estimates about 300 emergency room injuries every year due to automatic gates. Cases range from cuts to amputations to even fatalities.

Malfunctioning safety mechanisms, therefore, are your biggest consideration for replacing your gate. By proactively getting a new gate, you reduce the risk of collision, crushing, and other massive safety hazards on your property.

In addition, old models of automatic gates have outdated safety features. Upgrading to a new and safer gate minimizes the risk of accidents for family members, especially young children, and pets.

2. Physical Damage to Your Gate

An automatic gate that’s physically deteriorating is an inconvenience and a security risk. Not only is it prone to malfunction, but it will also be easy to break in. A gate that hardly operates and fails to protect your family is better off replaced.

For instance, once rot sets in the wooden planks, it’s extremely difficult to get rid of it. Wooden gates with cracks look like an easy target for determined burglars. In the same vein, rusted and dented metal gates compromise your security.

3. Gate Alignment Issues

If the tracks are severely worn down or damaged, the gate runs off the tracks during opening or closing. Loud grinding noises usually accompany this problem. In some cases, this could be fixed by a technician.

However, some misaligned gates are impossible to repair and require replacement. The gate might have a defective gate arm or gear rack — replacement parts that are difficult to get ahold of. The alignment issue could also be caused by shifts in the foundation where your gate is installed.

We strongly recommend calling our repair team if your gate derails. Gates are heavy (averaging at about 250 lbs.) and need specialized tools. Ask the technician if it will save you time and money to get a new gate instead of anticipating possible derailments.

4. Broken Gate Motor

A defective gate motor often manifests as a slow or unresponsive gate. Your gate motor might have succumbed to rust, corrosion, and wear and tear. In some cases, pests and extreme weather worsen the issue.

This could be solved by replacing the gate motor. The problem, however, is that gate motors are not as easy to replace as a gate opener remote control. You may not find a suitable replacement quickly, and every passing day brings safety hazards and security risks to your property. It’s often easier to get an entire fence gate replacement.

If you’re unsure whether your gate needs to be replaced or not, call the repair technicians at 4 Sure Gates. We’ll recommend a cost-effective solution that meets your safety and security needs.

Call us at (817) 965-7873 or send us a message today.

Five Reasons Your Business Needs a Proper Gate System

August 26, 2021

Almost all commercial establishments have gates, but are they strong and secure enough to protect your business? With a greater focus on online security, many companies are taking their physical security for granted, investing in subpar gates that might not deliver the security they need.

4 Sure Gates advocates investing in a proper commercial gate — one that’s suited to the level of security you need and the traffic flow of people and vehicles that enter your premises. While it entails a higher upfront cost, a robust commercial gate will deliver more savings and more assurances of security.

Here are five reasons you should invest in a proper security gate system for your commercial property.

1. Heightened Security

In Texas, property crime is one of the crimes that people fear the most, and for a good reason; property crime accounts for 85% of all crimes reported by Texas law enforcement agents to the FBI. Larceny-theft is the most common, making up 72% of all incidents. Burglary, meanwhile, accounts for 16% of property crime.

These figures show that physical security should not be overlooked, and the threat of property crime is real.

Secure your perimeter with a commercial automatic gate system. Unlike manual gates with locks that can be picked or cut, automatic gates are more difficult to breach. In fact, the presence of an automatic gate alone may deter would-be burglars or vandals. Many property crimes, after all, are opportunistic in nature. And a strong commercial gate leaves only a tiny window of opportunity for criminals.

2. Better Access Control

Many commercial gates come with access control systems that help you manage the flow of people and restrict unauthorized entry.

Physical security breaches could lead to a huge financial loss for the company. People usually gain unauthorized entry through tailgating (following someone with authorized access before the gate or door closes) and weak gates that they can easily break.

Perimeter security is your first line of defense against physical breaches. If you have a reliable gate access control system in place, you minimize the risk of unauthorized access.

3. Improved Privacy

Commercial security gates block out the view of outsiders, leaving you to conduct operations without any onlookers. Depending on their design, gates could either partially cover your premises or completely hide them from view.

Regardless of your industry or business, your property should have some level of privacy.

Even if you don’t work in a competitive field, it pays to protect your premises and employees from prying eyes.

4. Better Curb Appeal

Every business wants to project an image of trustworthiness and professionalism…but a flimsy fence won’t inspire confidence in investors and stakeholders.

In contrast, a sturdy, imposing, commercial gate — whether it’s a rolling or swing gate — shows that you take the security of your employees and assets seriously.

Plus, a gate with the right design will enhance the appearance of your premises. And you have an abundance of choices when it comes to gate sizes, shapes, colors, and finishes.

5. Bigger Savings

Commercial gates save you resources. For instance, keypads and fingerprint recognition systems reduce the need for manpower. The same goes for vehicle recognition systems; no need to hire employees whose sole job is to allow cars entry. You have an efficient system to do that for you!

In addition, commercial security gate systems guard you against the potential losses from burglary and theft.

Any way you look at it, your business will greatly benefit from a proper commercial gate. If you want to explore gate options for your company, contact 4 Sure Gates. We’ll help you determine the commercial gate system that’s right for you!

Call us at (817) 965-7873 or leave us a message today!

Three Factors in Choosing the Right Gate Access Control System

August 19, 2021

The type of gate access control system dictates the level of security your property will have. With burglary being the second most common property crime in 2019, your choice of access control is a crucial security decision.

To help you narrow down your choices, 4 Sure Gates explores important factors in selecting the right access control system for residential and commercial automated gates.

1. Level of Security

The first thing to consider is the level of security you need. While we all desire the best security system possible, it’s simply not cost-effective for some properties.

Most homes, for instance, don’t need an elaborate video intercom system that virtually verifies the people at the gate. Meanwhile, many high-security buildings need more than keypad access controls.

If you require a relatively low level of security, consider keypads and proximity card readers.
- Keypads require a code or PIN as credentials.
- Proximity card readers require the person to hold their proximity cards within the reader’s operating field.
If you require an average level of security, consider RFID and ANPR.
- RFID gate access control systems use keycards or fobs. These registered devices are scanned at the gate and grants the person access once the keycard or fob is verified.
- ANPR gate access control systems use character recognition to scan a vehicle’s license plate. If the system confirms that the plate is registered in the ANPR system, the gate opens.
For properties that require a high level of security, consider a gate intercom. In this robust security system, the tenants or employees can verify the person at the gate and open it remotely.

2. Traffic & Frequency of Use

Properties that allow entry to many people require a quick and straightforward system to avoid bottlenecks at the gate. Meanwhile, in a single-family home, household members can take their time keying in the PIN at the keypad.

For those who need a convenient method, such as tenant buildings, proximity card readers allow quick access to tenants. It also prevents people from forgetting the PIN or sharing the credentials with unauthorized individuals.
For properties that see many vehicles, RFID, ANPR, and vehicle detection systems work best. As the vehicles approach, the gate access control systems quickly verify the vehicle and slowly open.

3. The Manufacturer

Whatever gate access control system you’re eyeing, verify the reliability of the manufacturer. While reputable providers usually cost more than their less established counterparts, your peace of mind justifies the price increase. Your family or business, after all, deserves dependable security.

Read through reviews and testimonials to see if they deliver on their promises
Check how long the manufacturer has been in the business. The longer, the better.
Verify the kind of properties they serve. Do they specialize in commercial or residential gate access control systems?

4 Sure Gates Carries a Wide Selection of Gate Openers & Gate Access Control Systems from Well Known Manufacturers

Whether you need a simple method or an elaborate, high-security alternative, our team can provide it. Call us now at (817) 965-7873, or send us a message for professional advice for your gates!

Maintenance Tips to Keep Your Automatic Driveway Gate Functioning Well

August 12, 2021

Automatic driveway gates are an excellent investment. Apart from convenience, they improve security, enhance privacy, and enhance curb appeal for any property.

Driveway gate systems are made from tough materials like iron and wood, but they still require periodic maintenance to keep them looking and functioning their best. Proper and regular upkeep helps protect your investment by preventing major problems.

Here’s how you can perform maintenance on your automatic driveway gate and keep it in tiptop condition for many years to come. Before you start, however, make sure that the power is turned off.

Keep Your Automatic Driveway Gate Clean

This simple step prevents a lot of future problems. Dirt, dust, dead insects, and bird droppings can accumulate on your gate. The latter can speed up corrosion on metal gates and fade paintwork on plastic or wooden gates.

To clean your automatic driveway gate, use a mixture of mild detergent and water. Using a sponge, apply the soapy water to the gate. You can use a scrub or brush to remove particularly stubborn build-up. Afterward, rinse the gate thoroughly with water, making sure that no soap residue remains.

If you have solar panels on your gate, you can use a squeegee and a window cleaner to remove caked-on dust.

While you’re cleaning, be on the lookout for rusty spots, especially on the track, if you have an automatic sliding gate. You may try removing it yourself, but do it with the utmost care; otherwise, you might end up damaging the metal further. If you find evidence of corrosion, the best thing to do is to contact a trusted automatic gate repair company right away.

Check the Batteries & Replace, If Needed

On average, a gate battery needs to be replaced every five years. If your battery is fairly new, but your gate opener won’t work, or if the battery doesn’t hold a charge, there might be a problem with either the voltage regulator or the solar panels. A competent gate repair person can fix both with ease.

Lubricate Chains & Hinges

Hinges are subject to wear and tear as they’re the components on your gate that are used the most. Keep them lubricated using white lithium grease or a silicone-based lubricant. Both can be purchased from most hardware stores.

Avoid using conventional grease. While this may work well in enclosed machinery, it will attract dirt to exposed parts of your automatic gate system. Over time, it will collect more dust and other contaminants, creating friction and wear on moving parts.

Chains should also be lubricated at least once a year to prevent damage caused by excessive friction. Slide and swing gates typically have concealed, internal chains that also need to be lubricated.

Other components that need to be oiled may include:

Opener gears
Wheels and tracks
Opener gears
Hydraulics

Automatic Driveway Gate Service & Repair

While only done every few months or once a year, maintenance ensures your automatic gate’s smooth operation and aesthetic appeal. Still, despite one’s best efforts, a gate may malfunction for several reasons. Some examples are obstructions and damage caused by pests, weather, or power outages.

If you notice a problem with your gate or need assistance with its maintenance, reach out to the team at 4 Sure Gates. We have more than 20 years of combined experience in servicing and repairing automatic gate systems.

You can rely on us to get your automatic driveway gate looking and functioning like new. Call us at (817) 965-7873 to learn more about our services.

The 4 Sure Gate Guide to Modern Gate Designs

August 05, 2021

The sheer number of modern gate designs can overwhelm any homeowner. To help you narrow down your choices, 4 Sure Gates compiled a simple guide to modern front gate designs.

Gates can be categorized according to style and operation. There are three gate designs according to style: swing, sliding, and retractable.

Swing Gates

These gates swing open up to 90° to allow the vehicle entry, commonly swinging toward the direction. Swing gates may swing away from the property, provided that it won’t block traffic, even when fully open.

There are two types of swing gates: single swing and double swing.

Here are some guidelines:

Invest in swing gates if your driveway is on a flat plane. Swing gates aren’t ideal for sloped driveways as they scrape the ground.
Choose single-swing gates if the driveway or walkway is small.
Choose double-swing gates if the driveway is wide, so the weight of the gate is evenly distributed. Plus, it’s easier to open and close.

Aesthetics

Swing gates are a classic entrance gate design, which means they will complement most properties. However, it looks best with homes with a traditional design.

Sliding Gates

Sliding gates consist of one large gate that slides to the side via metal rollers and disappears to the side of the entryway. These are the best option if you are looking to save space. Unlike swing gates, sliding gates don’t occupy much ground when opened.

Sliding gate designs fall into four categories:

Rolling electric gates have rubber wheels, so they don’t need a track. These give you a simple and uncluttered design.
V-Track electric gates slide on a v-shaped track. It’s best for areas that don’t experience snow; the track might freeze or get obstructed by snow.
Cantilever sliding gates have neither track nor wheels. It doesn’t touch the ground and is supported fully by the rails on the side of the gate. If your driveway is rocky or if you experience snowy weather, cantilever sliding gates are your best choice.
Telescopic sliding gates are made up of two or three panels, which stack in front of one another and fold compactly into the side of the gate.

Aesthetics

Any property would look great with sliding gates. However, sliding gates complement homes with short driveways. They also look best on properties with a modern design.

Retractable Ground Gates

As their name suggests, retractable gates slide (sink) into a recess on the ground. This modern metal gate design is ideal for homeowners who:

Want to save the most space. Retractable ground gates require no additional square footage.
Have an extremely wide gate. No matter how wide the gate is, you can open and close it within seconds.
Are willing to meet a high upfront cost. Retractable ground gates are more expensive than their swinging or sliding counterparts.

Aesthetics

Most retractable ground gates comprise metal tubes or slabs. They give off a modern, sophisticated look.

Manual vs. Automatic Gates

In terms of operation, fence gate designs are divided into two categories: manual and automatic.

Manual gates are for homeowners who don’t mind opening and closing the gates by hand and latching and unlatching the locks. Manual gates are also more affordable and don’t depend on power.
Automatic gates are for homeowners who are willing to spend more in exchange for greater convenience.

If you’re not sure which gate design (style and operation) you want, don’t hesitate to contact 4 Sure Gates. We’ll help you determine the gate that meets your goals.

Call us at (817) 965-7873 or leave us a message today.

Maintenance Tips to Keep Your Automatic Gate Working Well for Longer

July 29, 2021

Automatic gates are a must for any property where security is a priority, whether residential, industrial, or commercial. When installed at the front of a driveway or the entrance of a facility, automatic gates control vehicular access.

Automatic gates can also be used to secure interior areas. For instance, you can install an automatic gate to section off parts of a warehouse while allowing easy access to workers with security clearance and their equipment.

Designed to withstand daily use, automatic gates are highly durable and resilient. However, maintenance is still necessary to keep them in perfect working order and extend their lifespan. Regular upkeep also allows you to catch minor issues before turning into major problems requiring repair or replacement.

Here are some ways you can keep your automatic gates running smoothly.

Wash & Wax Your Automatic Gate

Whether your automatic gate is installed outdoors or indoors, it will accumulate dust and debris over time. To keep it looking good, give your gate a good wash at least once a year. Washing your gate not only removes surface contaminants but also prevents rust from forming.

You may use a mild detergent and water solution along with a sponge to clean your automatic gate gently. Afterward, rinse it well in clean water to remove soap residue.

Once dry, you can wax the gate. This will help protect the finish from flaking off and the color from fading.

Check for Pests

Rodents, insects, and other pests can get inside the workings of your automatic gate and wreak havoc on its circuit board as well as other electrical parts and wiring. Moisture left behind by slugs and snails can also damage the inner workings of your automatic gate.

Be sure to keep an eye out for telltale signs of pest infestation in and around your gate, such as rodent droppings, slime trails, and spider webs. If you find any, reach out to a local automatic gate contractor so they can fix the damage. You might also want to invest in pest control services if the infestation occurs in an automatic gate installed indoors.

Lubricate Your Automatic Gate Parts

An automatic gate system has many moving parts. Most high-end automatic gates have their moving parts sealed. However, if your automatic gate’s components aren’t enclosed, you’d need to lubricate them once a year to prevent excessive friction. Note that too much friction between parts that touch each other can result in damage.

Parts you would need to lubricate include chains, wheels, hinges, and joints. If your automatic gate is the sliding type, you’d also need to lubricate the track it runs on, as well as the exterior chain.

An Easier Way to Maintain Your Automatic Gates

Performing maintenance on your automatic gates is time-consuming and tiring, especially if you have multiple gates throughout your property. However, proper upkeep is necessary if you want to keep your gates in excellent condition for longer.

For your convenience, you can turn to the experts at 4 Sure Gates to maintain your automatic gates. We serve residential and commercial clients throughout the Dallas-Fort Worth area.

You can rely on our team of licensed gate contractors and installers to perform comprehensive inspection and maintenance work on your automatic gates. If your gate is damaged and a fix is needed, you won’t have to call somebody else—we also repair gates.

Learn more about our gate services and get a free estimate by calling (817) 965-7873.

Explore the Four Most Popular Gate Materials

July 22, 2021

The choice of material affects upfront expenses, future expenses, and the service life of your gate. And because a burglary can cost a homeowner an average of $2,661, it pays to be critical of the materials you choose for home security.

To help you decide, 4 Sure Gates compiled the most popular gate materials for home and business owners in Texas.

Wooden Gates

A perennial favorite, a wooden gate never goes out of style. It complements most properties, but it’s best for homeowners who want a rustic and cozy appearance to their property.

Choose a wooden gate if:

You want a homely feel. Without a doubt, wood is the most homely-looking material. It’s more welcoming than aluminum or wrought iron gate.
You have a specific look in mind. Wooden gates can be stained or painted in different colors. Whether you want a natural grain or a trendy olive green fence, you can achieve it.
You want to block out the view. Most wooden gates completely cover the property from prying eyes.

Wood, as with all materials, comes with disadvantages.

Wood is vulnerable to weather. Wood absorbs water when it rains and expands. Conversely, it dries out and shrinks when it’s hot. As a result, the gate’s hinges must be strong enough to support the weight fluctuations.
Wood is prone to rot. To prevent rotting, wooden gates require periodic maintenance, which is more expensive than other gate materials, like wrought iron. The wood surface needs to be sealed regularly.

Aluminum Gates

Sleek and sophisticated, aluminum is the gate of choice for property owners who love a modern design. It’s lightweight, versatile, and easy to shape into whatever design you envision.

Choose an aluminum gate if:

You want a bespoke appearance. Unlike wood or wrought iron, aluminum doesn’t have a distinct look. As such, it can be formed into any design you imagine. Aluminum ranges from rectangular panels or elaborate security gates.
You want a gate with minimal maintenance. Aluminum doesn’t absorb water, rot, or rust, unlike other metal gate materials.

Beware of the cons of aluminum gates, too.

Aluminum is not ideal for locations with intense weather. Because aluminum is lightweight, strong winds and hail can damage the gate.

Aluminum may not be the best for automatic gates. The vibrations from the gate motor worsen the wear and tear, which may decrease the gate’s lifespan.

Wrought Iron Gates

If you want a gate design that’s imposing and grand, go for wrought iron. It’s the gate material used by old, stately mansions, thanks to its durability and elegance.

Invest in a wrought iron gate installation if:

You want a gate that could last generations. This is evident in old homes with wrought iron gates still intact. Wrought iron is sturdy enough to last for decades.

You live in an area with intense weather. If you encounter torrential rains, tough winds, or intense heat, wrought iron gates are your best choice. It stands up to extreme climate conditions.

You want a gate that intruders can’t cut through. Given its density and thickness, it is difficult to tamper or cut through wrought iron.

Tough as it is, wrought iron still has its disadvantages.

Wrought iron doesn’t provide much privacy. Most wrought-iron gates allow outsiders to see through and view your property.
Wrought iron is more expensive. Given its durability, wrought iron often carries a heavier price tag than wood and vinyl.

Vinyl Gates

Though not as popular as its wrought iron or wooden counterparts, vinyl is still a trusted material.

Choose vinyl if:

You want an affordable solution. Vinyl is more affordable than its wrought iron and wooden counterparts.
You want extra privacy. A vinyl gate can completely block the view, offering you better privacy.
You want a water-proof gate. Water slides off the vinyl. As such, these gates resist heavy rainfall.

Vinyl also comes with cons.

Vinyl is vulnerable to temperature changes. Vinyl expands and contracts as the temperature shifts, so it must be properly reinforced.
Vinyl is vulnerable to harsh weather. Winds and storms can destroy vinyl gates. Moreover, UV rays can cause the vinyl to fade.