Author: 4 Sure Gates

Four Common Gate Motor Problems and How to Fix Them

July 15, 2021

Gate motor problems don’t always require a professional; some just need a quick fix, and they’ll be up and running again in no time. Check these troubleshooting suggestions compiled by our trusted gate repair technicians in Dallas.

1. My Gate Won’t Open

If your gate isn’t moving or its reactions are delayed, four culprits are usually to blame. 

Gate Outlets & Power Supply

Check the outlet where the gate is plugged. Use a different device to see if it works in the same outlet. Check other outlets, too, to see if their ground fault interrupter (GFI) is working.

Gate Remote Controller or Automatic Gate Controller

If the little red light on the top part of the remote controller doesn’t light up when you press the key, then your remote controller is malfunctioning. 

  • Change the batteries.
  • If changing the batteries doesn’t work, the remote controller might be at the end of its service life. Call your supplier or a technician to have it checked.

Safety Look Sensors & Obstacles

If the sensor recognizes an obstacle, it disables the gate from moving. Check if anything is blocking the way.

Cold Weather Can Affect Your Gate

When temperatures drop, the metal components contract. As such, the gate requires more power to start. The battery inside the metal box is also affected by the cold weather. The internal temperature of the battery drops, reducing the electrochemical reaction needed to produce electrical current, which enables the gate to operate. 

This problem is easily remedied. Clean the battery terminals to remove any resistance to the current flow. Then, apply cold-weather grease to the metal components — it’s important to use lubricants specifically formulated for cold temperatures. 

2. My Gate Won’t Close

If the gate doesn’t close:

  • Remove Physical Obstacles. Inspect if anything is blocking the gate physically. This could be a broken gate arm for a swinging gate or broken wheel bearings for a sliding gate. 
  • Close It Manually. If you can’t find any physical obstacles, close the gate manually. Turn the power supply off and detach the gate arm (for swing gates) or chain (for a sliding gate). Then, manually close the gate. 

If you can’t close the gate, there’s a mechanical issue involved, and it’s best to call a professional technician. The problem might be caused by worn-out components, like rollers, hinges, or rails.

3. Sensors Aren’t Working

When obstructed, the sensors and, by extension, your gate won’t operate properly. Common problems include pests that might have infiltrated the systems or a thick layer of dirt, debris, moss, or mold. 

Inspect the sensors and remove the blockage around them. A quick clean-up should do the trick.

4. My Gate Makes Weird Noises

A gate motor makes a normal, humming sound. However, if it’s noisier than usual or produces an odd noise, something might be off.

  • Check for physical obstacles that might cause the noise. It could be an object stuck in the mechanism or vegetation growing along the gate’s path.
  • If you can’t identify the source of the sound, call in a professional electric gate repair technician in Dallas.

When to Call a Professional Gate Installer or Repairer

  • Worn-Out Components. A technician sources the right parts for your gate and replaces them quickly to get your gate back in working condition.
  • Noise from an Unidentified Source. The repair technician inspects the gate motor to find the noise source and disassemble and reassemble the mechanism, if necessary.
  • Visible Gate Motor Damage. Wear and tear, rust, and other visible signs of damage are best handled by a trained technician.
  • Gate Malfunction Despite Troubleshooting. If the gate is not working, despite all your attempts to fix it, leave the problem to the professionals.

Contact 4 Sure Gates today, and get 5-star automatic gate repair services, honed by over 15 years of professional experience. Enjoy competitive quotes and round-the-clock service for Dallas, Fort Worth, Plano, and nearby areas.

Call us at (817) 965-7873 now for a free estimate!

5 Signs You Are Working With a Good Gate Contractor

July 08, 2021

For each successful project, you hear horror stories, such as contractors taking off with $4000 worth of deposit or getting charged for not finishing the work they agreed to.

It’s not always easy to find a good contractor. Unless you’ve been provided reliable references, you will not be able to confirm a contractor’s reliability until your project is already underway. 

If you have doubts about the company you hired for a gate installation or automatic gate repair, these five signs will help determine if you choose the right one. 

1. Willing to Provide Important Information & Help

A trustworthy contractor has nothing to hide. The people you hired for your project provided you with the necessary documentation and references right from the start. These include: 

  • Licenses to work
  • Proof of insurance
  • Necessary permits
  • List of references

If the gate contractor did not present any of this information before starting work, they should, at least, be willing to provide them upon your request. Documents like licenses minimize the risk of getting ripped off, while proof of insurance frees you from any liabilities like accidents.

2. Offers Written Estimates

Your gate contractor must provide a detailed, written estimate that describes the scope of the project they will undertake. A solid estimate should show the following:

  • Overall price
  • A price breakdown (labor and supplies)
  • Detailing when the work will be done
  • Terms and conditions
  • How long the estimate is valid 
  • Payment terms

A precise written estimate will help the project run smoothly and minimize the chances of unexpected costs. Most importantly, it provides tangible proof, unlike oral estimates. Once it’s printed on paper, it cannot be mistaken or denied. 

3. Signs & Honors Contracts

Every detail of the project must be put into writing. Both parties should agree on the terms, price, and general timeline of the project. A good gate contractor will sign and honor this contract.

If some aspects of the contract, such as materials, are unavailable for any reason, they will contact you first before finding a suitable replacement. They will make sure you approve of the alternative materials.

Anyone who refuses to work with a contract or actively convinces you to forgo documentation must be treated suspiciously.

4. Shows Expertise & Workmanship

When it comes to hiring contractors, of course, you must hire someone specializing in the type of project you have. However, there are instances when people pretend to be contractors to scam clients. 

The contractor you hired to install a new gate must explain in detail the process, the preparation, and the goal. They should also offer expert advice for any concerns you have. It will tell you if the person truly knows gates or is just pretending to know. 

5. Offers Clear & Timely Communication

Clear communication between contractor and client is essential, regardless of the type of project. Your gate contractor should provide timely reports on the progress of the project. 

They should also answer any questions you may have, primarily when an unexpected issue arises. If they provide regular updates and encourage you to check on the gate they are working on, that is a good sign.

Finding the Right Gate Contractor Can Be a Lengthy Process That Requires Trust

Hiring the wrong company can result in wasted time and money. If your contractor exhibits the excellent attitude, helpfulness, and behavior described above, your project is in good hands!

At 4 Sure Gates, you’ll find a team of licensed gate contractors and installers ready to work with you. We’ve been supporting our community for over 15 years. 

Visit our About Us page to learn more about our team or check our gate designs today.

4 Signs Your Property Needs an Automatic Gate Replacement

June 24, 2021

It’s no secret that automatic gates increase the value of your property. In fact, having a gate drastically increases your home’s value by as much as $50,000 or more. However, over time, natural wear and tear and other factors will contribute to the decline in its lifespan. And while repairing your gate will naturally be your first instinct, it may be more cost-effective in the long run to simply replace your automatic gate.

Which option should you take? If you are unsure whether your home’s automatic gate is due for a replacement, keep reading. Our experts at 4 Sure Gates have listed four indicators that it’s time to replace your automatic gate:

They Are Safety Risks for People and Property

The absence of safety features on more dated gates is undoubtedly one of the most important reasons to consider acquiring a new set of automatic gates. Given that older models are programmed to only perform two functions (specifically, opening and closing), they may end up crushing anyone or anything that gets in their way. On the other hand, more modern gates—which are designed according to industry safety precautions and protocols—are built with sensors that will pause or cancel these automated processes when they detect an obstruction.

They Offer Poor Automation Performance

Pay attention to how your gate opens and closes whenever you’re using it. On average, these operations should only take a couple of seconds. Thus, if you find yourself waiting longer than necessary before being able to successfully pass through, it may be time to check its opener. Sometimes, there may be an obstruction that prevents it from performing optimally so it doesn’t open or close as needed. However, if there aren’t any visible and tangible external problems, it’s best to take it as a sign to look at its motor. The motor might be performing poorly simply because it’s old. Replacing your old setup might be in your best interests if you want to avoid the inconvenience of a suddenly stalled motor or a broken gate!

They Have a Broken Motor

Sometimes, old automated gates don’t just perform poorly––sometimes they refuse to work altogether. It most likely is a problem with your gate motor. Check whether there’s rust or corrosion on it. The motor could also be damaged due to pests or harsh weather conditions. In the case that the motor is unsalvageable, you’ll have to replace it. But without the assurance that you’ll find a compatible model for your outdated gate, much less have a guarantee that the replacement will work effectively, it’s much easier on you and your pocket to replace the entire gate with a newer type instead.

Lack of Spare Parts

It’s also worth mentioning that similar to the motor, an automatic gate’s other minor components may not be as readily available on the market. And while you may look for alternatives online, it may not be the fastest or most guaranteed option. Replacing your automatic gate with a newer model grants you the freedom of having access to more spare after-market parts and accessories when the need for them arises once more.

Are you ready to experience the convenience and benefits of having a brand new automatic gate installed once again? Call 4 Sure Gates at (817) 965-7873 and schedule your gate replacement today!

Does Your Wooden Gate Need Professional Repair? Here Are 3 Common Issues

June 17, 2021

Wooden gates are strong and sturdy structures that many homeowners favor because it adds to the curbside appeal and provides an additional layer of security and privacy to a home. Additionally, wooden gates can last a long time with proper maintenance.

Because they are made from a natural material, however, it is susceptible to wear and tear, as well as regular damage. As an attentive homeowner, you’ll have to keep an eye out for signs that your gate is in need of professional attention.

Whether your wooden gate is in need of minor or major maintenance and repair, our team at 4 Sure Gates can take care of it. Here’s how we’ll handle these three common concerns:

Superficial Damage: Rotting and Rusting

Rotting occurs on treated and untreated wood, but untreated wood tends to rot faster, especially when it is constantly exposed to harsh weather conditions. Rot can affect the strength of the material and cause sagging on the affected portion and eventually, on the surrounding parts as well.

If the problem is neglected for too long, the entire structure will begin to lean and affect the hinges or the tracks, resulting in other structural problems that may require additional professional repair. Before you see any signs of significant damage on any of these parts, it’s best to schedule a routine checkup to prolong the gate’s life. 

Some wooden gates are designed with steel or metal parts. If this is the case, the gate must be checked for signs of rust. Rust and corrosion are simple problems that are usually ignored and simply chalked up to material aging and time. However, when neglected, rusty hinges can get stuck and corroded hinges can detach. Moreover, eroded tracks can cause buckling and affect proper closing or opening. Scheduling a maintenance checkup every six months can extend the life of the hardware and the tracks.

In between checkups, cleaning the gate with warm water and dish detergent can help remove hardware stains. Applying metal-grade wax will help protect the surface of the hardware from stains, discoloration, and rust. However, the protective coating from the wax wears off over time and the lubrication on the hinges and the track wheels diminish due to constant use and exposure to weather elements. 

Structural Weakness: Misalignments and Cracks

Snow, soil, and other natural debris can accumulate on the tracks or the bottom of the gate, preventing it from opening and closing properly. This can add friction on the parts that come in contact and forcing them to close or open may result in surface damage such as cracking or chipping off. Meanwhile, latches can get misaligned which makes opening and locking difficult. Latches are also prone to hardware damage due to constant use and movement.

Professional repair is necessary for gates that show evidence of damage on stress points like hinges, tracks, latches, and holes or cracks on panels, as well as gaps. If you need to force open it or need to use force to slide the latch on or off, it means it’s up for a checkup and maintenance.

To clean the tracks, especially the corners, you may use a small brush to do the job. You may also want to check for any plant growth along the track and on the corners of the gate. To ensure you get your money’s worth on your wooden gate, schedule a regular inspection and maintenance to prevent premature material degradation.

Weather Damage

Constant sun exposure can cause the wood to become brittle and break easily. Harsh weather conditions like storms, snow, and heavy rainfall can cause wood to swell due to moisture, and can lead to rotting. Storm winds and wind shear also put a toll on the structure, causing some panels to go missing or become wobbly.

To mitigate the damage, have your gates checked every six months by a professional. Performing preventive maintenance is better than spending a fortune on repair costs. As soon as you see any signs of wear or damage, have a professional inspect it right away.

Cleaning the area every two to three months is ideal to keep the tracks in mint condition, while lubrication of moving parts every year is necessary to ensure the longevity of the hardware and other moving parts that contribute to the functionality of the gate. The professionals may also suggest applying sealers to protect the wood surface and prevent it from expanding due to humidity.

Get in Touch with the Pros

At 4 Sure Gates, we provide repair and maintenance services to ensure the longevity of your wooden gates and all of their components. If your gate is exhibiting any of the issues we mentioned, give us a call at 817-965-7873 or fill out a secure form on our site about your concern – we’re ready to help!

Cantilever vs. Sliding Gates: Which is Better for a Commercial Property

June 10, 2021

Choosing a top-quality gate will not only improve your property’s facade aesthetically, but it is also an excellent investment when it comes to your privacy and safety and, of course, the convenience of safeguarding your property’s entrance and exit points.

An automatic gate can add to your curb appeal, extra security, and functionality for commercial properties. Among the top options are cantilever and sliding gates.

Key Differences Between Cantilever & Sliding Gates

A cantilever gate is a type of sliding gate with just a slight difference in wheel placement. In a cantilever gate, the wheels are connected to a vertical foundation, while the wheels of a sliding gate are located at the bottom with supporting wheels on the back. While this is a minor note of difference between the two, here are some of the critical points to consider:

Costs of Cantilever & Sliding Gates

A sliding gate is relatively less expensive than a cantilever gate primarily because fewer materials are needed for its fabrication. It also requires a smaller post and is not supported by mounting posts, so the frames need not be as strong as a cantilever gate’s frame.

Both gates, however, can be manufactured with various materials like iron, steel, aluminum, or wood. Thus, the cost of installation will depend mainly on the type of material you choose, the size of your property, and labor prices in your area.

Space Requirements for Cantilever & Sliding Gates

A traditional sliding gate has the same size as a typical driveway, perfect for smaller spaces. It is also an ideal choice if you want your gate to stow away nicely and inconspicuously.

On the other hand, a cantilever gate has to be 50% longer than your driveway to balance out the weight of the mounting posts – the size of which can vary. Also, it is adaptable to any kind of driveway pavement, so you don’t have to worry if you have a rough or uneven path.

Installation of Cantilever & Sliding Gates

Since a sliding gate has a smaller post or frame, installations are much easier and faster. It is also lodged close to the ground – preventing wandering animals from coming in or out of your property.

A crane is needed to lift a cantilever gate due to its heavier weight. Make sure your commercial property has enough space to accommodate the crane. However, when it comes to installing the side posts, it is quicker since they are installed without any interference on the driveway. 

The lifespan of Cantilever & Sliding Gates

When properly installed and maintained, both the sliding and cantilever gates can last a very long time. However, due to the heavy-duty construction of a cantilever gate, it is inclined to last longer than a sliding gate. Also, it is less exposed to abrasion as it does not roll directly on the ground.

Call 4 Sure Gates – Your Local, Expert Commercial Property Gate Installers!

If you need assistance in choosing the right type of gate for your property, talk to our technicians at 4 Sure Gates. We service Dallas, Fort Worth, Plano, and nearby areas. We also offer a wide array of gate designs, gate openers, and gate opener accessories.

Give us a call at (817) 965-7873 to learn more.

Most Common Questions about Gates for Commercial Properties

June 03, 2021

According to the U.S Bureau of Justice Statistics on crime, the most common types of property crime committed across the country in 2019 were larceny or theft and burglary. And as a business proprietor, your building or property is especially enticing to criminals.

Thus, it would be in your best interest to ensure that your employees, resources, and infrastructure are safe from intruders. In this regard, installing gates along the perimeter of your property becomes your first line of defense.

But which type of gate is best for your purposes? Here 4 Sure Gates answers some of the most common questions business owners ask when they’re considering installing gates on their property.

1. What type of gate is best suited for my property?

The best way to figure out what type of gate you need for your property is to talk to a reputable gate installer in your area. They are the experts who can offer the most useful advice when it comes to your specific needs.

However, there are generally four things you need to consider when you sit down and talk with them. These are safety and security, aesthetics, level of privacy offered and type of gate wanted, e.g., automated or manually operated.

2. Should I get automatic gates or manually operated ones?

This would largely depend on the type of business that you run. Automatic gates work by having a transmitter in your vehicle that can open and close your gates with the push of a button. For commercial buildings in urban areas or retail shop owners, this means you save time in your day having to leave your car idling, getting out, and opening the gates yourself.

On the other hand, businesses like construction areas need extra security given the number of valuable items that are on display outside. Having someone guard your gates and opening them manually might be more suitable in this case.

3. What can I do to make my automatic gates last longer?

Keeping their moving parts cleaned and lubricated are the top things you can do to ensure that your automatic gates run smoothly and efficiently. These are things you can also do on your own. Some parts, however, like belts and chains might need adjustments every now and then. For these parts, we recommend seeking professional services at least once a year or for every 10,000 cycles.

4. How would I know how many cycles the gates have gone through?

It is important to know the open and close cycles your automatic gate goes through in a day since this would determine when your gates need maintenance. This is typically easy to measure for residential properties but commercial gates can vary depending on the type of business or property use. For this, we recommend installing a counter so you never miss out on scheduled maintenance.

5. What kind of material should the gates be made of?

Consider your location and the kind of business you run when you’re deciding on the best materials for your gate. Essentially, you want something that will not corrode easily. For this, you might want to consider aluminum, stainless steel, or even plastic or vinyl.

If aesthetics are your main concern, you can never go wrong with wooden gates or wrought-iron fences. Ultimately, the choice of material is best discussed with your gate installer so you can make a better-informed decision.

Reliable Commercial Gate Installers and Repair

Having the right commercial gate for your property will not only add security and privacy but also contribute to aesthetic appeal and property value. 4 Sure Gates can ensure you get the perfect gate for your commercial property.

Call us today at (817) 965-7873 to learn more about our commercial gate installation services.

Does Your Property Need Swing or Sliding Gates?

May 27, 2021

The average driveway costs about $4,433 and homeowners can pay anywhere from $2 to $15 for every square foot. This adds up to a substantial amount. If you want to make the most of this expense, you’ll have to look into each component of your driveway.

Gates are one of the most important of these components; choosing between a swing or sliding gate is the first decision to make.

Compare the two options to identify which style is better for your budget, security needs, and aesthetic requirements:

Cost

From the number of moving parts to the installation and maintenance costs, the swing gates come out on top here.

Because of the more complex structure of sliding gates, they generally cost more to set up. Swing gates, on the other hand, may be installed by a non-professional.

Sliding gates also have more moving parts which makes maintenance more difficult. Gates that use tracks, for example, have to be cleared of debris to function properly and not cause issues down the road.

Security

In terms of security, these two gate styles perform similarly. Depending on the materials used, they both offer the same degree of protection as the main access points to your property.

The security of these gates can even be improved with added features like automation. Both these gates can be operated either manually or electronically. If you choose the latter, you’ll have more control and management options. You can also integrate your gate into your property’s security system, if you have one.

Space

Space is one of the most important factors for many homeowners. Making the most of your property means maximizing every square foot of space you have. With driveway gates, sliding ones tend to save more space than swing.

Because sliding gates slide along the fence or wall line, they take up minimal space, especially compared to how a swing gate takes up half a circle, with the gate as a radius, when swung.

Sliding gates are also ideal if your gate is located by the road or the sidewalk. This means there won’t be any risk of causing traffic on either pathway when the gates are opened.

Appeal

While both gate styles look identical when closed, the differences are clear when they are opened.

On the one hand, swing gates can look cluttered or out of place when they are opened. But they do give homeowners a variety of design options. They can look like big French doors, parting in the middle, or they can be one large gate.

Sliding doors, however, tend to look neater when opened. They virtually disappear into the walls or fences alongside the gate. But sliding gates usually work similarly, giving homeowners fewer real options when it comes to design.

Although the sliding gate is more space-saving, it is also usually the more costly option. The swing gate, on the other hand, takes up more space, but is generally cheaper and easier to install and maintain. Both styles perform fairly equally well when it comes to security features and visual appeal.

In the end, it comes down to the needs of your property and your own preferences. Read more of our blogs or consult our experts to help you choose.

If your gates need repairs, call us at (817) 965-7873.

Why You Need Automatic Gates at Home

May 20, 2021

A lot of burglars determine whether a house has valuable objects worth stealing by simply looking at the yard. According to Reader’s Digest, a burglar gets clues from things like the flowers in the garden, the toys scattered on the lawn, and many other seemingly innocent items.

One of the best ways to prevent this, of course, is by building a wall or a fence around your property. And with an enclosure, you’ll need an equally secure gate for your drive- or walkway. An automatic gate offers better security, as well as a list of other benefits for homeowners.

This article will go through the most important ones.

Why You Need an Automatic Gate for Your Home

Gates Provide Security

The ability to control the opening and closing of your gate with just a push of a button adds a layer of security that you just cannot get from traditional, manual options. For one, these gates are more difficult to tamper with and will most likely diminish the interest of any burglar.

Most automatic gates are also equipped with security system sensors that notify you and the authorities if unwanted access is detected. You can also install security cameras atop the gates to always stay on top of your property’s main access point.

These security measures are enough to deter a range of threats including burglaries and vandalisms.

Gates Provide Privacy

Privacy is an increasingly important factor in security. For similar reasons mentioned above, automatic gates can also enhance your property’s security by simply discouraging both culprits and passersby from peeking inside your property.

An automatic gate is a good indication that a home is well-secured and well-monitored. No one wants their face recorded in a security camera, looking conspicuous.

Gates Provide Value

A good-looking, properly installed, hi-tech automatic gate can easily give your home’s façade a facelift. It conveys a sense of class and taste, especially in this increasingly smart world. Aside from its aesthetic value, this feature also raises your home’s market value.

The added security is another selling point to potential buyers if you decide to sell your property down the road.

Gates Provide Safety

According to Safe Kids Worldwide, over 9,000 children are treated for injuries that occur when they are by themselves around motor vehicles. In some of these cases, the children are old and capable enough to operate a driveway gate but are still not old enough to be walking by the road by themselves.

Having an automatic gate reduces this risk significantly because children won’t readily have access to the mechanism that opens it, compared to traditional gates. This safety feature also applies to pets that may have learned how to open gates themselves.

Gates Provide Convenience

Like most automatic things, this feature makes gates more convenient for homeowners. Imagine not having to leave your vehicle to open or close the gate every time you come in or out of your driveway. It saves so much time as well.

This also makes it an excellent feature if you have visitors over or if your area is greatly exposed to rain or snow.

Contact For Sure Gates for Your Residential Gate Project

Automatic gates offer so many benefits for homeowners. Security and safety top the list, but there are other advantages that make the investment worth it. Read our other blogs for more information on automatic gates.

If you need repairs or installations, call us at (817) 965-7873.

What Kind of Gate Does Your Property Need?

May 13, 2021

A gate is not just for privacy and security or adding curb appeal or even raising a home’s value. According to The Spruce, a well-designed gate can quickly become the ‘focal point of a home’s front exterior.’

Since so much is riding on a residential property’s gateway, it’s essential to see what options homeowners have when choosing the right one for their property.

Here are a few of the most commonly chosen gate ideas, combining different styles and materials.

Property and Driveway Gate Styles

The different styles of gateways cater to different needs.

Swing Gates

As the name suggests, these gates swing open and closed like a door, allowing cars in and out the driveway. Ideally, the gates should swing towards the property and away from the outside, especially if the gate is located by the road.

If you want your driveway gate to open outward, make sure there is enough space when the gate is fully opened to avoid blocking passing traffic.

These gates usually open just 90 degrees and do not take up much space, apart from their length. Some even save more space by having two gates of equal length.

Swing gates are also usually installed on a flat plane to avoid scraping.

Sliding Gates

Much like sliding doors, these gates open and close by sliding in and out from a recess located in an adjacent wall or fence. Compared to swing gates, these save even more space. However, the space needed here extends beyond the driveway towards the side.

There are different kinds of sliding mechanisms that are applicable in varying circumstances. The popular V-track slider, for example, is not advisable for properties in snowy locations because the path of the slider needs to be clear and straight at all times.

Retractable Gates

A retractable ground gate is a type of sliding gate that slides in place from recesses on the ground. These are usually automatically operated and require a more complicated setup process, and are also usually more costly. 

This type of gate saves the most amount of space because the gate material is hidden underground when the gateway is open.

Automatic Gates

Automatic driveway gates are becoming more and more popular, especially as smart devices and the internet of things are becoming more common as well. These gates can be swing, sliding, or retractable in design.

They can also have different automatic mechanisms. Some gates can react to radio frequency remotes. Some can be opened or closed with a push of a button inside the property, and others can even be controlled using phone apps.

When it comes to the installation and maintenance of these automatic gates, we’d be happy to help. Call us at 817-965-7873.

Materials for Your Property or Driveway Gate

Gates can be made from different materials as well. The following are usually chosen for their strength and other unique qualities.

Wood:

Hardwood gates are popular because of the strength of the material and the character it brings to the property. This material can also be used together with metals, especially when making privacy gates that cover the gate area, not allowing people outside to see inside the property.

Metal:

The usual choices are aluminum and iron for their strength. The weight of these materials should also be considered, especially when you want an automatic mechanism.

Vinyl or PVC:

These materials are similar to those used in decking. They are light, durable, and usually cheaper than the alternatives.

Whatever style or material you choose, the guidance of gateway experts can help you. Give us a call or read the rest of our blogs for more information.

Gate Operator Buying Guide for Homeowners and Business Owners

May 06, 2021

If you’ve settled on an automatic gate, you’ll need a reliable and high-quality gate operator. These machines seem simple: they open your gate when you’re passing through and close it afterward. However, this straightforward task requires precision engineering and high-quality electronics. A malfunctioning gate opener can injure or even kill you. It’s not something to cheap out on.

If you want a gate opener that’s safe to operate and lasts long, there are a variety of factors you should consider before buying.

Your Gate Dimensions & Weight

Gates are large pieces of metal, wood, or composite that need a considerable amount of force to move. Some gate openers are made for lightweight gates, while some can open and close heavy, wrought iron or steel ones. Make sure that your gate operator’s capacity is the same or exceeds the weight of your gate.

The Way Your Gate Opens

The usefulness of your gate operator depends a lot on how your gate opens. If it’s a single or double swing gate, you may need top or bottom mount or ram-type openers. If you have a sliding door, you’ll need a gate opener that has a chain mechanism.

The Type of Gate Operator

There is a wide range of gate operator types to choose from, depending on your preferences and your electric gate repair technicians’ capabilities.

Remote-Controlled Gates

This is the most popular and basic type of gate operator. It lets you control your gate using an electronic device. It should, at least, have a close or open switch.

Bluetooth Remote-Controlled Gates

This type of gate allows you to use a Bluetooth remote to close or open your gate. You could even use your smartphone to operate it. 

Radiofrequency Gates

This is similar to a remote-controlled gate. It uses a slow and unreliable radio frequency to send a signal, so it’s not as popular.

The Best Electric Gate Opener Brands

Armed with the above information, find an automatic gate opener from trusted and reputable companies. Here are leading brands you’ll never regret choosing.

Ghost Controls:

Ghost Controls provides easy-to-install automatic gate openers, making it a favorite among professionals and DIY enthusiasts alike. You can get a single heavy-duty kit for just $469. If you want solar power, you’ll need to add $100.

Mighty Mule:

This company also offers DIY swing gate openers. What’s good about it is that their products have smart capabilities, so you can use your smartphone to control them.

ALEKO:

ALEKO provides a wide variety of gate opener parts for sale. Its items are suited more for contractors who want to customize a gate operator for their clients.

U.S. Automatic:

This company provides a range of gate opener kits. Its Patriot model can operate swing gates up to 800 pounds and 16 feet. Each item is Underwriter Laboratories (UL)-certified, so the safety of their gate operators is guaranteed.

 Check for Quality and Ease of Use

Your gate opener, like your gate, is going to spend years outdoors. They’re always exposed to the elements. You want to make sure that your gate operator is of high quality to survive everyday use. Here are a few reminders before you finalize your purchase. 

  • Check every part of the gate operator, from the mount to the internal hardware, to ensure that it’s not flimsy or break easily. 
  • Read the specifications sheet to ensure that it can withstand extreme heat and cold.
  • The spec sheet should also tell you how much pulling force the gate operator has. Never settle for anything below 500 Newtons. A gate opener with a low operating force may end up being sluggish.
  • Make sure your gate operator has an emergency release, too. This way, you can use it even during an outage.

Having an automatic gate offers convenience and security for your home. The flawless operation of your gate depends highly on the quality of your gate operator and its installation. 

Get Your Gate and Opener Professionally Installed

Now that you have the ideal gate and gate operator, it’s time to have them installed. While some gate openers are branded as “DIY,” you don’t want to take any chances. Get it installed by a professional gate contractor like 4 Sure Gates.

We provide gate installation, maintenance, repair, and replacement services in Dallas and Fort Worth. Our team has over 15 years of experience, so you can trust us to get the job done in no time.

Call us today to get an estimate or arrange for an installation or repair.