Author: 4 Sure Gates

Five Reasons Your Business Needs a Proper Gate System

August 26, 2021

new Commercial Gate System at a business in Dallas

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.

Your choice of fence or gate materials will depend on your budget, aesthetics, preferred maintenance level, and more. 

If you need specialist advice for your new gate, call 4 Sure Gates at (817) 965-7873 or send us a message.

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!