Author: 4 Sure Gates

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.

Why You Should Upgrade to a Wrought Iron Gate

April 29, 2021

If you’re thinking of improving your property’s entrance and front-yard elements, now is the best time to do it. After all, spring brings everyone out of hibernation—especially after Texas’ freezing winter—so you can expect visitors or neighbors to drop by.

One way you can do this is to upgrade your weathered gate to a fancy-looking one, like wrought iron. You can choose various materials to raise your front gate’s aesthetic appeal, but you can never go wrong with wrought iron. Here’s what you need to know about this gate material and why it’s a perfect choice for your gate upgrade.

What Makes Wrought Iron Special?

Wrought iron is a malleable form of iron that’s forged rather than cast. Unlike most iron components, it’s not poured into a mold and left to cool. It’s worked into its form using a hammer while it’s hot. The longer it’s forged, the stronger and tenser it gets.

Wrought iron is purer than cast iron, with only one to two percent slag (the by-product of separating iron from its raw ore). It also has lower carbon content than cast iron. These attributes make wrought iron stronger and more resistant to corrosion than steel and other metal materials. This strength has made it a popular material for many rugged products, including railings, nails, and gates.

Benefits of a Wrought Iron Gate

Easy to Maintain

 It’s no secret that wrought iron is much more expensive to buy and install than steel and cast iron. According to HomeAdvisor, the national average cost of a wrought iron gate installation is around $2,700. However, that’s the only major expense you will have for a while because the gate is a breeze to maintain. With a common wire brush and water, you can wash off the dirt build-up on your gate, and that’s it.

On the other hand, a steel gate needs to be washed with a mixture of soap and baking soda and fully rinsed before leaving to dry to bring back its shine. 

If your gate is painted and the paint starts to chip, it’s fairly easy to repaint it. If it gets damaged, a skilled wrought iron repair professional can easily fix it without you needing to buy a new gate. It’s ideal for homeowners on a budget and who don’t want to waste money and materials.

Multiple Design Options

Wrought iron is easy to mold and bends into any shape. If you have a custom design in mind, your gate designer can create it. You can let your imagination run wild with shapes and forms that are distinct to your property – even your own initials. Your designer can make them all come true without sacrificing your gate’s structural integrity and durability.

If you don’t want to create your own design, no problem. Every gate contractor has its standard designs. Ask for a catalog and choose the best design for your home and neighborhood. 

The craftsmanship that goes into wrought iron gates is unmatched. It takes a skilled and experienced forger to create beautiful works of art that also serve as deterrents to trespassers. Whether your home has a contemporary or rustic design, this type of gate will look perfect with it.

Improves a Home’s Curb Appeal

Curb appeal has a higher objective than just making your home look beautiful from the road. It also makes your home more attractive to a buyer when the time comes that you’re ready to sell.

A Michigan State University study found that improving curb appeal, specifically the landscape design and other front elements, increases a home’s perceived value by 5% to 11%. With the elegance and classic look of wrought iron, you can make your home stand out like a beautiful piece of art in the property market.

If you’re going to spend money on your gate, you might as well make sure that it’s made from a reliable and beautiful material. A wrought-iron gate will enhance your home design while reinforcing the security of your property.

Get Your Wrought Iron Gate Professionally Installed

4 Sure Gates has been providing gate design, installation, maintenance, and repair services for more than a decade to Dallas and Fort Worth homeowners and business owners. If you need a contractor for your gate improvement project, we’ll be happy to work with you.

Call us today to discuss your ideas and get a free estimate.

Choosing the Right Gate Opener for Your Automatic Gate

April 22, 2021

Now that you’ve selected your gate’s size, color, and material, it’s time to consider whether you want to go automatic or manual. If your gate is fairly small and made of a light material, going manual is no problem.  But having a heavy and solid gate may require automation.

Automation makes it more convenient to open and close your gate, often with just a click of a button on your remote control or smartphone. You don’t have to get out of your car or require someone inside your house or commercial property to wait for you and operate the gate. It’s no surprise that the global automatic gate industry is a multi-million dollar market.

If you want to automate your gate, you need the right gate opener. A gate opener is usually part of your electric driveway gate’s cost, so when you make a choice, consider your budget, not just your preference. Here’s a guide to finding the right opener for your gate.

Determine How Your Gate Operates

The first step in finding the right gate opener is determining how your gate operates. There are two popular types of gates: swinging and sliding. The mechanism of your gate opener should work with the kind of gate you have.

Swinging gate — If you have a swinging gate, you’ll need a top or bottom-mounted swing arm. These are independent modules that are relatively low-profile. They’re barely noticeable when mounted on your gate.

A linear or ram arm is more noticeable but is easier to mount than other types. Compared to top and bottom mounted arms, which need to have their modules installed on the ground, you only need to attach a linear arm to a column and the gate itself.  

Sliding gate — With a sliding gate, you’ll need to have a chain-operated gate opener. The chain runs under the gate and is operated by a discrete motor.

Consider the Weight of Your Gate

Not every gate opener is built the same. The ones that cost hundreds of dollars are made for light loads, around 1,000 pounds. There are also heavy-duty openers used for hefty wrought iron and steel gates that weigh around 2,000 pounds or more. These can cost thousands of dollars.

If you’re not sure about your gate’s weight, ask your gate contractor and shop around for openers that accommodate the load. You may also check your gate and gate opener’s specification sheets to see if they’re compatible. Some may come with safety features, opening mechanism options, or power source options.

Take Your Columns into Account

Apart from your gate and gate opener’s weight, you should also consider your column’s heft and capacity. This is especially true for ram openers, which attach directly to it. A flimsy or thin column may crack or even break under the pressure of your gate opener’s operation.

Ask your gate contractor to assess your gate to see if its columns are solid enough for a gate opener. If not, you may want to consider a bottom or top-mounted gate opener connected directly to the ground.

Think About the Power Source

Since gate openers are electronic, they’ll need a power source to work. Before installing a gate and gate opener, consult with an electrician to ensure that you have electricity available in the area of your gate. Otherwise, you may need to spend extra to have electrical wiring installed.

You might also want to discuss a solar power source with your gate installer. A lot of gate openers come with one, which makes your gate energy-efficient. This way, you don’t have to worry about your gate failing to operate because of a blackout. As such, you might want to check the location of your gate to ensure enough sunlight to harness electricity.

You get to save money on bills, too, because you don’t have to use energy from your main power grid. Solar power being better for the environment than traditional power sources is also a nice bonus.

Look for Safety Features

Gates are made of heavy, solid metals. If any electronic parts malfunction, it could cause the whole installation to fail or move unpredictably. Prevent your gate from causing injuries or damage to your car by making sure that it has safety features like:

  • An infrared sensor that stops the gate from moving when it detects an obstacle
  • Remote control or smart application on your phone that lets you control the gate from afar

These features allow you to be far from the gate every time it opens or closes. You don’t have to worry about you or your car getting squished between the gate panels.

With advancements in technology, automatic gates and gate openers are starting to become the norm. Find the right gate opener by considering important factors like your gate type, column size, power source, opener safety features, and more.

Get Your Gate Opener Installed By a Professional

If you’re looking for a professional team to install your automatic gate opener, contact 4 Sure Gates. We provide customized gate design, installation, and repair services to businesses and homeowners in Dallas and Fort Worth. Our team has over 15 years of experience in professional gate installation and service. Trust us to provide quality services every time.

Call us today to get an estimate for your gate project.

What You Need to Know Before Installing a Gate

April 15, 2021

Your gate serves a variety of purposes for your home. Some people want a sturdy gate that wards off intruders. Others prefer something aesthetically pleasing to increase their home’s resale value.

Whatever the reason, installing a gate can improve a property’s value by at least $50,000, according to the real estate website Realtytimes.com. With the national average cost of a gate installation reaching upwards of $1,900, you could get large returns for your investment.

But even though you’re not planning to sell your home in the future, you can always enjoy the perks of having a durable and beautiful gate. Here’s what you need to know before installing your gate.

Property Size

While large and elegant gates look amazing, they’re not always the best option for your home. You should first consider your property’s size. If you live in a small space, consider getting a sliding gate to compensate for it. If you have more than 10 feet of driveway space, a larger swinging gate may fill the space better. Work with your designer and gate contractor to determine the best gate size for your house.

Gate Type and Design

There’s a wide range of gate designs available for any home, but they fall into three main categories:

  • Single swing — This features one large gate connected to posts or columns with a set of hinges. It’s good for entryways that lead directly to your door or a small driveway.
  • Double swing — This is a set of two gates that swing from hinges connected to two posts or columns. It’s ideal for larger driveways because the weight is spread evenly between the two gates, making them easy to open and close.
  • Sliding — This also has one large gate, but it’s connected to metal rollers. The rollers help you slide the gate open or close when unlocked. As mentioned earlier, this is the best choice if you want to save on space.

Your gate’s design is another important factor to consider, as it affects your property’s curb appeal. Curb appeal refers to how attractive a piece of property is when viewed from the sidewalk. This is a significant factor in the value of a home.

You can discuss mechanical or automatic gate ideas and other designs with your gate installer. Customization is best with aluminum or wrought iron; a gate manufacturer can easily mold the materials into different shapes and sizes.

If you can’t envision the gate you want, you can always choose from a catalog of designs that fit your home and discuss its installation with your home improvement contractor.

Material

Your gate’s material doesn’t just influence your gate’s appearance but also plays a part in its durability and adaptability to the area’s climate. Here are the most common materials homeowners use for their gate.

  • Steel — This is a popular choice because it’s readily available. Steel is quite durable, too. If you’re going for a steel gate, choose a powder-coated one to make sure it doesn’t rust in the rain or snow.
  • Iron — Iron is another popular choice because of its look. Wrought iron, specifically, adds a touch of elegance to a gate’s design. Plus, iron can be molded into different shapes and curves. Homeowners who want a secure and sturdy gate prefer it for its strength and durability.
  • Aluminum — Aluminum is not as sturdy as steel and iron against impact, but it’s perfect if you don’t want to deal with rust problems. It’s lightweight, too, and easy to install.
  • Wood — If you want a classic look for your gate, use wood. It offers a great sense of privacy, as it’s made of wider and thicker slabs. However, it’s tougher to maintain than a metal gate. It’s susceptible to rot when it’s exposed to rain. You’ll need to reseal it regularly to protect it from the elements.

 Selecting and installing a gate is just as complicated as choosing your wall materials and furniture. You must give it much thought, or your gate will be ill-fitted. Size, design, and material must go hand in hand with your overall home design and environment.

Get Your Gate Professionally Installed

If you’re looking for a professional to design and install your gate, turn to 4 Sure Gates. We’ve been installing, repairing, and maintaining gates in Dallas, Fort Worth, and surrounding areas for more than a decade. You can trust our team to create a beautiful and secure gate for your property.

Call us today to get a free estimate.

Best Practices for Maintaining Your Gate

April 08, 2021

Even if you live in an area with a low crime rate, you can never be too sure. Installing a gate is a great way to improve your home’s security.  A gate, whether manual or automatic, keeps unauthorized visitors away. Plus, it prevents your pets and children from wandering into the street.

Gates, however, wear out over time. They’re constantly exposed to the elements, after all. Years after installing your gate, you may notice problems like grinding, squeaking noises that weren’t there before, or chipping paint that ruins your gate’s appearance. Your gate may also be difficult to close or open or refuses to respond to a remote controller.

These problems are more than just minor annoyances. If they’re left to persist, they can lead to irreparable damage. The best way to prevent these issues is through regular maintenance. Here are the best practices in maintaining your automatic or manual gate.

Clean It Regularly

One of the best ways to ensure your gate’s consistent function is by giving it a thorough cleaning at least once a year. Clean off the dirt with soap and water. Rinse and dry it immediately. If you see any signs of rust, let a professional gate repair service get rid of the corrosion. You don’t want it to spread deep into the metal parts of your gate. It can cause metal parts to break, and you’ll end up paying for costly and time-consuming repairs.

Get Rid of Pests

Your gate helps deter pests from entering your home. No matter how durable your gate is, however, rats, slugs, snails, and insects can damage it significantly. This is especially true if you have an automatic gate. Ants and cockroaches are notorious for burrowing into electrical components for warmth and shelter. They build colonies and bring in dirt from the outside, causing short circuits and corrosion.

Rats like to chew up wires and urinate on electrical equipment, too. This can cause your automatic gate to malfunction and fail, leaving you with a heavy door to open and close manually until it gets fixed.

If you want to get rid of pests humanely, contact a pest control specialist. They’ll set up traps and chemical deterrents to ensure that your gate is rodent and insect-free. If you suspect that the pests have already burrowed into your gate’s electrical components, call an electrical gate repair technician immediately. Touching the inside of electrical equipment can cause damage to the component – and your health. 

Lubricate the Joints

Even when your gate is electronically controlled, it still has a lot of mechanical parts. Contact points like the hinges are prone to wear after years of use, making the gate difficult to open and close. It can get stuck, too. And if you force your gate to open or close, you may end up damaging it. So, what can you do to improve the performance of your gate’s parts?

Lubricating can do wonders to your gate. It would be best to use lithium grease, not WD-40, as the latter only lasts for a short while. Use the lubricant on the main drive chain of your gate. Consider putting some on the hinges as well. Make sure to wash and wipe off the excess grease. You don’t want it to gunk up your gate’s paint and finish.

Update the Software

If your gate has smart features—for instance, if you can open or close it using your phone—chances are it has an operating system and applications. These pieces of software need to be updated constantly to fix possible bugs and glitches that could ruin your gate’s functionality.

Updates also patch up possible security vulnerabilities to ensure that your automatic gate doesn’t get hacked by cybercriminals. Updating your automatic gate’s software is a complicated process. Leave this task to your gate technician.

Your gate is your first line of defense against trespassers and other unauthorized people who might want to gain access to your property. As such, you need to make sure that it works properly through regular cleaning, lubrication, pest control, and software updates. These tasks may cost a lot of time, money, and effort, but they’re essential if you want to keep your gate durable and smooth.

Get Professional Electrical Gate Repair

Some gate maintenance and repair tasks require the work of an expert like 4 Sure Gates. We provide automatic gate installation, maintenance, and repair services for homeowners and business owners in Dallas, Fort Worth, Arlington, and its surrounding areas. Our team offers quality work at an affordable price.

Call us today for a free installation and repair estimate.