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

Should You Repair or Replace Your Damaged Driveway Gate?

September 29, 2022

So far, in 2022, there have been 12,902 documented severe weather events in the USA. Experts predict that the number and intensity of storms will only increase due to climate change. Properties, including siding, fences, and gates, are not immune to these events’ detrimental effects.

If your house and driveway gates have post-storm damage, fixing the issues as soon as possible before they escalate is crucial. Continue reading to learn whether you need to repair or replace your damaged driveway gate after a storm.

Common Types of Damage for Driveway Gates

A storm, whether it consists of heavy rainfall or strong winds, can easily damage your gate. The gate’s material, as well as the storm intensity and duration, will be a factor in the degree of the damage. In short, the heavier the storm is, the more damage there will be to your gate.

Some gate issues to expect after heavy winds and rainfall are:

Cracks and splinters
Damage to the automation or motor system
Damage to the gate’s structural identity
Severe corrosion (metal gates)
Fallen posts and damaged hinges
Collapsing of the entire gate
Washed away ground pillar or post foundation

The Most Durable Driveway Gate Material

Remember that each gate material acts differently during and after a storm. It will directly affect the amount of damage your gate endures.

For instance, wooden gates suffer more damage because of their high vulnerability to moisture and humidity. As a result, they crack and rot.

Aluminum driveway gates are less susceptible to moisture but can start corroding after heavy rainfall. However, metal gates, in general, are more durable than wooden ones. Vinyl is also a good material choice as it is entirely moisture-resistant.

Remember that your gate’s durability and resistance will ultimately depend on the quality of craftsmanship. For that reason, a high-quality wooden gate can show better results than a low-quality vinyl one.

Residential Gate Replacement vs. Repair

If you are wondering whether to repair or replace, follow the general rule for gate replacement: replace your entire gate if the storm damaged at least 20% of it. You should also opt for replacement if the gate has issues with alignment and its motor.

If you decide to repair instead, we suggest you start planning and saving up, as most repairs take time and are costly.

In addition, the parts you fix might not completely match the rest of the gate. This will disrupt the visual flow and reduce appeal.

Another thing to consider is hidden damage. For instance, your gate might seem fine at first but rot and corrode with time. So, whether you decide to repair or replace, do a thorough inspection beforehand and act quickly after!

Don’t Know Where to Start? Choose 4 Sure Gates

Nothing is impervious to a heavy storm. However, choosing a high-quality gate installer can minimize or eliminate risks. You will not only cut costs for potential post-storm repairs but also boost your security!

To take some weight off your shoulders, work with 4 Sure Gates. Our team has over two decades of experience providing gate installation, equipment, and repairs. We pride ourselves on our versatility, high-quality craftsmanship, superior products, and impeccable technical support.

At 4 Sure Gates, you can find everything you need – from access control system installation to high-end gate openers. Contact us today to discover more about our services and expertise. Don’t forget to check out our free quotes for gate installation services.

Popular Types of Automatic Gates for Residential Properties

August 11, 2022

Although property crime rates in the US decreased by 7.8% between 2019 and 2020, automatic security gates are still common for both companies and private properties.

Different buildings and institutions warrant different levels of security, and most residential properties don’t always need a high-security, impenetrable gate.

This article covers the most popular types of gates that US homeowners tend to go for.

Slide Gates

When automatic security systems are mentioned, the first type that comes to mind is usually sliding gates. They rely on a mechanism that incorporates rollers and a metal sliding track that are practical, elegant, and effective.

Slide gates are versatile, can be set at different angles, and function well on inclined or declined surfaces. Also, you don’t have to pay extra to get the ground leveled.

Curving Slide Gates

Curving slide gates are a subtype that’s modified for more limited spaces. Instead of trying to cram in a huge gate in a tight area, simply opt for a curved gate. Depending on your chosen design, these gates will either be curved or slide at a curved angle.

Vertical Lifting Gates

While these are more popular with warehouses, though residential properties often use them if they have restricted space. Two vertical pillars are placed on both sides so the gate can easily slide up. However, ensure that vehicles that’ll need to pass through aren’t too tall and won’t crash into the lifted gate.

Swing Gates

Swing gates are some of the simplest options design-wise. They resemble regular in-house doors but are fortified with sturdier materials and tend to be quite cheap.

One thing to know is that they usually open inwards – towards the property, lest they damage the ground or surface outside the said property. Swing gates may not be the best option if your space is limited.

Electric Gates

Most automatic doors nowadays are electric. Still, you have the liberty to pick your desired materials.

Steel Gates

Steel electric gates are the most durable and sturdiest you can find. But they’re also quite expensive, especially if you live in a low-risk area, where security isn’t that big of a priority.

Aluminum Gates

Aluminum gates are even more expensive due to their contemporary look, even if they’re not quite as protective as steel ones. They are lightweight and sturdy, making them a popular choice.

Let 4 Sure Gates Design and Install Your Automatic Gates

Working with trusted professionals is essential regardless of what kind of gate you want to go for. At 4 Sure Gates, we offer extensive gate designs to suit your preferences. Once you’ve chosen a design, our team will professionally install it on your property.

Combining affordable solutions with long-term maintenance services, we are the top pick for residential owners looking to install an automatic gate anywhere in Texas. Contact us now, and let’s get you the perfect security solution for your home.

Automatic Gate Parts That Need to Be Replaced Most Often

July 07, 2022

Around 38% of Americans were using home security services in 2021. In recent years, the crime rate on properties in Texas has increased, so implementing security systems has become imperative for Texans. A crucial part of these systems is the automatic gates.

These gates have many mechanical parts, some of which have a relatively short life span. In other words, if you want your security to always be at the top of its game, you’ll need to replace some of the mechanical parts of your gate frequently.

This article will cover all the essential components you need to keep an eye on.

Security Sensors for Your Automatic Gate

Automatic gates usually have several kinds of sensors. Since these are all electricity-powered, they’re sure to expire sooner or later, as most of them are automatically turned on almost daily. Defective sensors can be unsafe and may even cause gate failures.

One sensor you especially need to monitor is the one that detects and notifies you of intruders. Other types of sensors include safety sensors, which ensure your gate won’t close too late or too early, and light sensors, which can get clogged by dust, insects, and other debris.

Automatic Gate Overall Power Supply

Another essential aspect of your security gate system is the overall power supply. After all, the whole gate is automatic and electronic, so the loss of power supply, for any reason, will prevent it from doing its job properly. Moreover, it won’t be able to open – leaving you stuck outside or inside.

Check if there’s some issue with the circuit breakers or intercom, and try to fix it manually if it’s just a minor issue. For major problems, it’s best to get professional help immediately.

Your Gate Tracks

Tracks are constantly exposed to motion and pressure due to the gates sliding over and through them multiple times per day. As a result, they can be especially vulnerable to damage. Not only can they gather dust and debris, obstructing the gate’s movement, but they can also get dented or damaged, which would warrant hasty replacement.

Gate Remote Controls & Keypads

Whether you primarily use a keypad or remote control to open and close the gates, these little gadgets rely on batteries. So, they are bound to either need replenishment or proper replacement sooner or later. Consider changing the unlocking code regularly to reduce the risk of intrusions.

Automatic Gate Hinges

Hinges are essential in the opening and closing of gates. They hold the gate and facilitate easy movement. Keep a close eye on your gate hinges and call a professional if they get damaged, rusty, or loose.

Rely on a Professional Gate Repair Service Like 4 Sure Gates!

Texans in need of security gate services anywhere in Dallas, Fort Worth, Southlake, Grapevine, Arlington, and the vicinity, don’t need to worry, as 4 Sure Gates is always here to help. We are a team of professionals offering quality gate repair services at incredibly affordable prices, and we cover both physical and electronic malfunctions.

Contact us as soon as you notice something wrong with your security gate, and we’ll help you solve it in no time.

4 Reasons to Hire Professional Gate Installers

June 30, 2022

Your property’s gate can raise your home value by as much as $50,000. This is because the gate is a major part of a property’s curb appeal or the attractiveness of your home when viewed from the street.

Gated entrances add an air of luxury, as well as security, both of which are attractive qualities for any homebuyer. As such, gates are a good investment if you’re planning to sell someday and want to raise your property value.

However, gates are tricky to install. They need precise measurements and adequate structural support, not to mention that if your chosen gates are automatic, they require careful planning and placement of the controller circuit.

So if you’re planning on installing a gate for your home, it’s better to call gate installation professionals instead of trying to do it yourself. Here’s why:

Secure Gate Installation

The main purpose of your gate is to provide security for your property. If the gate doors are damaged or vulnerable, it gives uninvited people easy access to your place, putting the safety of your family and loved ones at risk.

With your family and your property’s safety at risk, it’s not recommended to pursue gate installation without any supervision from experts. You must hire someone who knows how to install gates properly to ensure the integrity of your gate.

Improved Safety

As mentioned above, damaged gates can be a major safety hazard around your property. But apart from leaving your home vulnerable to outsiders, damaged gates can also cause injuries, bruising, and fractures upon opening or closing them.

With a professional gate installation team, you know your gate and all its materials are in good condition upon installation. The crew can point out if your gate’s surface, hinges, and other parts have any damage, then provide a solution on how to fix them.

Efficiency of Service

Efficiency is vital for effective gate repair and installation. This is not something you can achieve simply by watching online tutorials. DIY hacks might work for small gates or if you’re dealing with repairs, but installing the main gate is complex and requires expertise.

Professional gate installation companies use their skills and experience to install gates properly. As such, you don’t have to worry about understanding installation instructions because you have a team that can efficiently install your gate for you.

Save on Costs

Gate installation involves the use of various tools, some of which are specialized. Gate installation professionals have access to these tools, which means you don’t have to rent or buy expensive equipment just for a one-time gate installation.

In addition, DIY-ing gate installation can result in damage to your gate parts and other costly mistakes. You might find yourself needing professional help in the end. As such, a properly installed gate by a professional team saves you money on part replacement and repairs.

Professional gate installers provide guarantees for their services. This means if any problem occurs within a specific period, they will fix it without additional charges.

So while it may be possible to install a gate by yourself, this warranty and the rest of the benefits mentioned above make professional gate installation a much more sensible option.

Professional Gate Installation With No Compromises

Let 4 Sure Gates take care of installing a new gate for your property. We have experience serving Dallas, Fort Worth, and surrounding areas for over 15 years now, so you can rest assured that you can get quality gate installation services.

Get in touch today for a free consultation and quote.

7 Factors to Consider When Getting a New Automatic Gate

June 16, 2022

From increasing curb appeal to adding a touch of sophistication, gates can boost your property’s value in a number of ways. Experts believe that adding a gate to your home can increase its value by more than $50,000, depending on the type that you install.

If you’re in the market for a new gate, there are a few things you’ll want to keep in mind, including the type, material used, your budget, and style preferences.

Choosing the right automatic gate can be a daunting task, but if you keep these factors in mind, you’ll find the perfect gate for your home.

Style of Automatic Gate

There are a variety of different gate types to choose from, each with its own set of benefits. If you’re looking for security, a closed gate might be the best option for you. If you’re looking for easy access to your property, a swinging gate might be the right choice.

Here are other notable aspects of each gate type:

Swing Gates: Swing gates open outwards and are a great option if you have a lot of space available.
Sliding Gates: Sliding gates open sideways and are a good choice if you don’t have much space available.

Material of Automatic Gate

The material of your gate will determine its durability and how well it weathers the elements. Choose a material that is resistant to rust, decay, and insect damage.

Some popular gate materials are:

Metal Gates: Metal gates are strong and durable and are a good choice if you live in a high-traffic area.
Wood Gates: Wood gates are beautiful and traditional, but they require more maintenance than metal or vinyl gates.
Vinyl Gates: Vinyl gates are the most affordable option, and they require very little maintenance.

Size & Shape of Gate

The size and shape of the gate will depend on the size and shape of your driveway. If you have a curved driveway, you’ll need a curved gate. If you have a long driveway, you may want to consider a double or even triple gate.

Purpose of Automatic Gate

The purpose of the gate will also dictate which type of gate you choose. If you need a gate for security purposes, you’ll want to choose a metal or vinyl gate with a locking system. If you need a gate for privacy, you’ll want to choose a wood or vinyl gate that can be closed completely.

Size of Your Property

It’s critical to consider the size of your home and the amount of space you’ll dedicate to the main gate. A sliding gate, for example, is ideal for a little area, whereas swinging gates need more room.

Before starting, measure the area to ensure that you obtain an accurately sized gate. This will help you move or slide your gate without any problems.

Weather Resistance of Your Gate

It’s also important to consider the weather resistance of the gate. Wood gates, for example, are not as weather-resistant as vinyl gates. If you live in an area with severe weather conditions, you’ll want to choose a gate that can withstand the weather.

Maintenance for Your Automatic Gate

Finally, you’ll need to consider the amount of maintenance your gate will require. Wood gates require more maintenance than metal or vinyl gates, but they look beautiful. Vinyl gates are the most durable and low-maintenance option.

Your Dream Gate Is Just a Call Away!

Is your gate giving you trouble? We can help! 4 Sure Gates offers a wide range of custom-made gates, which may be operated manually or automatically to meet your specific needs. We provide a comprehensive selection of gate operators, including manual, electric, and automatic – and we can install, repair, or replace almost any model!

Let 4 Sure Gates take care of everything for you to enjoy the benefits of a properly working gate. Reach out to us today to get a free estimate.

Why Hire Professionals for Electric Gate Repair and Maintenance

May 26, 2022

The average lifespan of an electric gate should be roughly 15-20 years. Though electric gates may be pricier than standard gates, they are a worthwhile investment not just because they last longer but also because they’re convenient and easy to use. However, like any investment, they should be cared for.

To ensure that your gate lasts its entire lifespan and even beyond, it’s crucial to turn to professionals. At 4 Sure Gates, we understand that many people may opt to repair an electric gate instead of purchasing a new one when it breaks down.

Some go the DIY route, because of cost considerations. However, this may result in issues, especially if the person trying to fix an electric gate has no prior experience.

Hiring a professional to repair and maintain an electric gate is the best option for this and other reasons.

Minimize the Risk of Mistakes with Your Electric Gate

One of the most significant difficulties with working on an electric gate on your own is inexperience. You might not have the proper knowledge of the gate’s internal workings to correctly determine what’s wrong and, therefore, what needs fixing. Electric gate systems can be complex, and making a mistake while working on them can render the gate in worse condition than before.

Professional electric gate specialists are familiar with multiple types of electric gates and their systems, enabling them to assess the issue accurately. From there, they can determine the best steps to take.

Puts You at Less Risk for Harm

Another disadvantage of fixing an electric gate on your own is that you can risk harming yourself. There is the potential to get electrocuted or get tools and fingers caught in machinery. Instead of putting yourself at risk for injury, put your safety first and hire a professional who will take the appropriate safety procedures while fixing the gate.

Furthermore, if you attempt to fix the gate and it goes wrong, there’s the likelihood it will continue to stay broken and then pose a risk to someone else. It’s better to hire a professional who can quickly fix the problem before anyone gets hurt.

Costs Less in the Long Run

Some people may balk at hiring a professional for fear of the high costs it may entail. But trying to fix an electric gate by yourself can worsen the damage, turning a minor issue into one that requires extensive repair or even replacement.

It’s better to hire a professional right away as they can target the error and correct it before the damage worsens. Also, the professional may be able to spot problems in your gate that you hadn’t noticed before and correct them early on.

Get Quality Service for Your Electric Gate from a Professional

Hiring a professional ensures that electric gate repairs are done right and on time. Instead of making do with DIY solutions, turn to a trusted company that will restore the gate’s performance and even extend your electric gate’s lifespan.

4 Sure Gates has been repairing and maintaining various models of electric gates across Texas for many years. We have specialists who can assess and identify the issues on your residence or commercial property’s electric gate and make the right repairs to get it back in working order.

Contact us today to schedule an appointment or read about our services.

Manual vs Automatic: The Great Gate Debate

May 19, 2022

Your driveway gate, while unassuming, is a critical part of your property. It provides your property safety and privacy, and it also adds to your home’s overall curb appeal and overall value.

Now that we’ve established the impact of a great gate, the question now lies on which kind of gate you should get for your home. There are many gate types that you can choose from, but the most common dichotomy that sparks debate among homeowners is between manual and automatic gates.

These gates have their own advantages and disadvantages, and choosing one over the other can completely change your property. If you’re still on the fence about whether to choose a manual or automatic gate, this piece should be able to help you make the right choice.

Why You Should Choose a Manual Gate

The biggest advantage a manual gate has over an automatic gate is how efficient it is priced in comparison to its automatic counterpart. While you can easily spend up to $10,000 for a high-quality custom automatic gate, you can get an equally secure and beautiful gate for less than a quarter of the cost.

Another reason why you could pick manual gates over automatic ones is the abundance of styles that you can choose from. It’s hard to transform your home into a memento for the art deco movement if you have an automatic driveway gate at the front. The materials these gates are made out of also impact their overall appeal.

Security is another factor that pushes people towards manual gates. Since manual gates need to be opened by someone, it is easy to vet any visitors trying to enter your property.

Pros of Choosing Automatic Gates

Let’s now hop to the other side of the fence.

The biggest thing that pushes homeowners toward automatic gates is their ability to boost their property’s value. An effective automatic gate can boost your home’s safety, which makes it viable to potential buyers by the time you plan to sell it.

An automatic gate can also boost a home’s curb appeal if you choose the right one. Most automatic gates look modern, so these things go well with commercial buildings and modern-looking homes.

Another factor that makes homeowners choose an automatic gate over a manual one is the convenience it offers. If you can’t be bothered to go in and out of your car, an automatic gate easily becomes your best friend.

The kind of security an automatic driveway gate can provide to a home is different from its manual equivalent. Most automatic gates give you the ability to see who is at your gate inside your house. It allows you to control who gets to enter your property without ever having to go to your driveway.

Choose the Perfect Gate for Your Home

Both manual and automatic driveway gates are viable for most homes. Whether you go for one or the other boils down to personal preferences. As long as you get your gates from a trusted gate company.

If you have any more questions about these types of driveway gates, our gate professionals at 4 Sure Gates will be happy to help. We offer best-in-class gate installation and repair in the Dallas-Fort Worth area and surrounding neighborhoods.

Contact us to address your concerns.

Everything You Need to Know about Automatic Gates

May 12, 2022

There are roughly 2.5 million cases of burglary in the US per year, and 66% of those are home break-ins.

Installing an automatic gate is one of the most effective ways to protect your home from intruders. While the simple presence of a gate is often enough to deter trespassers, motorized gates take security to the next level by letting you control entry and exit points at the simple touch of a button.

How Do Automatic Gates Work?

Automatic gates commonly rely on a specially designed motor or hydraulic system to operate. Handheld devices such as remotes, intercoms, and access control keypads are used to send signals that will activate the motor. Automatic sliding gates commonly have a single motor, while swing gates have two.

Some automatic gates come with smartphone apps that let you control your gate from a distance or even speak with visitors via an intercom.

Advantages of Installing An Automatic Gate

Automated gates provide the following benefits to both commercial and residential properties:

Security – Automatic gates protect your property from all types of intruders, including vandals, trespassers, and burglars.
Insurance – Some insurance providers offer a discount on premiums if you’ve taken extra measures, such as installing an automatic gate, to protect your facility.
Convenience – With a motorized gate, all you have to do is push a button for the gates to open and close on their own.

Types of Automatic Gates

Swing Gates

Automatic swing gates feature two doors on each side. Like a traditional hinged door, both automatic gate doors swing in the same direction to permit access. Swing gates can rely on linear screws, hydraulic rams, articulated arms, or concealed underground motors for smooth operation.

Sliding Gates

Sliding or rolling gates are built with wheels on the bottom, allowing them to slide smoothly across the track. They’re suitable for uneven ground and sloping driveways.

Sliding gates are known to be one of the most secure gate types. This is because they can be incredibly difficult to force open, and they have fewer vulnerable points than a swing gate.

Vertical Lift Gates

Vertical lift gates are designed to move up and down to allow access. A vertical support tower holds the gates together.

This type of gate is an ideal choice if the terrain is uneven or if there isn’t enough space for a slide gate or swing gate installation.

Bi-Folding Gates

Bi-folding gates are composed of two gate panels hinged together. When activated, the panels fold in on themselves, providing ample space for pedestrians and vehicles to enter and exit.

Bi-folding gates are suitable for sites that don’t have enough space for a gate to open and close.

Ultimately, the right type of automatic gate for you will depend on your budget, property layout, and accessibility needs.

Maintenance Tips for Your Automatic Gate

Wax your gate regularly to keep it shiny and attractive. Waxing also prevents the finish from flaking off.
Aside from cleaning the outer sections of the gate, maintaining the electrical components is crucial. Watch out for insects that could reside in it or leave behind moisture that could damage the circuit board.
You may have to lubricate some parts of your gate to keep them functional. If moving parts aren’t sealed, you’ll have to grease the hinges and wheels for optimal performance.

Get Top-Notch Security with 4 Sure Gates!

4 Sure Gates offers custom fabricated gates that can be manual or automated at your request. Our technicians are highly skilled in gate repair and installation and are available around the clock for all your needs.

Contact us for a free estimate.

Automatic Gate Safety and Maintenance Checklist

May 05, 2022

If you neglect your automatic gate’s safety and maintenance, you could face serious financial and legal repercussions. Minor issues can become more severe over time, meaning they’ll be more expensive to repair later. If your gate malfunctions due to negligence and injures someone, you may face a personal injury claim.

Ensure your automatic gate’s strength and safety with our checklist.

Automatic Gate Tune-Up Checklist

With regular inspections and maintenance, you can prevent or spot issues with your automated gate system earlier. This will help you save a lot more money in the long run, and it allows you to make the most of your current automatic gate operator before needing to replace it. It should last at least 10 years.

Schedule a yearly check-up, especially if you have a wooden gate, as their finishes wear down faster. Keeping a wooden gate’s finish in good condition is critical for preventing water damage.

Your automatic gate tune-up checklist should include the items below, depending on whether or not your type of gate has the relevant part.

Check these parts for sufficient greased or lubed:

Bearings and chains inside the operator panel
Rollers or wheels that support the gate
Drive chain
Truck assembly
Limit switch shaft
Gearboxes

See if these parts need their paint and finishes redone:

Pickets
Framework
Hinges, latches, and receivers

You may need to have these parts tightened:

Truck assembly studs
Brake assembly
Lower and upper rollers
Chain tension
Pulleys in the operator panel
Operator panel bolts
Pickets (if bolted to the gate)
Device mounting (gate operators, photo eyes, and other safety devices)

Additionally, you may need to have these parts replaced:

Keypads
Clutch pads
Batteries in wireless keypads
Gate timer
Wireless transmitters

Of course, any of the other parts may need to be replaced as well if they’re severely damaged.

Automatic Gate Legal Safety Requirements Checklist

To ensure your gate is compliant with safety regulations, make sure it meets the following requirements:

Your gate has the minimum number of entrapment protection devices (this depends on the type of gate, but the minimum is 2 for each direction of travel for most).
Entrapment protection devices are installed where there are entrapment hazards.
Warning signs are visible from each side of the gate.
The gate cannot come into contact with the controls and a person using them.
The gate operator is appropriate for the type of gate and its construction (such as whether or not it’s strong enough to hold the gate’s weight).
The rollers are covered.
Pinch point hazards are eliminated or covered.
There are no protrusions at the bottom of the gate.
Your gate must have fall-over protection.

Signs You Need a Repair or Replacement for Your Automatic Gate

Parts of your automatic gate will eventually deteriorate no matter how well you care for them. Look out for these signs that you need a repair or replacement:

Your gate makes loud screeching, rattling, or banging noises.
Your gate doesn’t fully close or open.
The roller tracks are misaligned.
Your gate opens and closes on its own.
The sensors are failing.

The Best Automatic Gate Repairs in Dallas and Fort Worth

If you notice your automatic gate is damaged or has worn down parts, have 4 Sure Gates work on it immediately. Ensure your gate’s durability and safety with our automatic gate repair services.

Call us at (817) 965-7873 to get a free estimate.

Signs that It’s Time to Replace or Repair Your Driveway Gate

March 10, 2022

Driveway gates, especially electric sliding gates, cause numerous dangers and hazards when not maintained correctly. It’s every homeowner’s responsibility to maintain their gates. This isn’t only to ensure that the gate lasts long. It’s also to ensure the safety of everyone using it.

Your gate may have outlived its lifespan or has accrued significant damage that calls for extensive repairs. 4 Sure Gates, having done numerous gate repairs across Texas, knows what signs and dangers indicate it’s time to get your gate repaired or replaced entirely.

Signs to Look For in Your Automatic Driveway Gate

Does Your Driveway Gate Make Unusual Noises?

It’s normal for a squeak now and again, but loud, unusual noises are a big red flag. The gate may make strange sounds during opening and closing, such as very loud screeching, rattling, or loud banging as though components were striking against one another.

Another telltale sound is if you have an electric, motorized gate, and the motor starts making faulty sounds. There could be a foreign item in the motor, or it has shorted out somewhere.

Does Your Driveway Gate Have the Inability to Fully Close or Open?

This is especially important for electric gates, on or off tracks. They are specifically designed to fully slide in or out of the driveway area. If the gate has a habit of getting stuck partway, it may indicate that there’s debris or an obstruction on the track.

It may also indicate issues with the motor. The obstruction, foreign object, or even pest infestation can prevent the mechanism from fully opening or closing the gate as needed.

Is Your Driveway Gate Misaligned?

Rolling gates with tracks that are misaligned need to be repaired immediately. The longer a gate stays misaligned, the worse the damage will get. The gate must roll smoothly and accurately over the track. If it leans to one side, it means the gate is veering. It may bend the metal and create more damage to the gate that requires larger repairs in the near future.

If a gate is veering off the tracks or is completely off the track or can no longer fully close because it can’t reach the other side, it may need a complete replacement. Otherwise, it won’t close securely and protect your driveway.

Does Your Driveway Gate Open & Closes On Its Own?

Electric gates often have their own opening, closing, and automatic locking mechanism. If the gate is now opening and closing on its own, or if it latches and fails to lock correctly, it’s an indicator that the motor or the electronic system is malfunctioning.

It needs immediate repair; otherwise, you’re running the risk of the gate suddenly opening, making your area unsecured. Moreover, if the gate is opening and closing on its own, it may randomly cause an animal, a vehicle, or a person to get trapped inside or cause damage if it decides to close as a vehicle is passing through.

Does Your Automatic Gate Have Failing Sensors?

Electric gates’ opening, closing, and locking mechanisms respond to a command issued through a remote and detected by a sensor. If the sensor is failing to respond to the command or has delays in responding to the command, this suggests problems with the internal system.

Remember that automatic gates are heavy, often fast-moving, and therefore dangerous when out of control. The system needs to be inspected and repaired or entirely replaced with effective sensors and remotes to correct the issue and keep it functional and safe.

Correct & Repair Gate Issues Before They Become a Risk!

By identifying key problems and indicators of repair needs like these, you can maintain your gate’s performance and ensure your property’s continued security and safety. Have professionals assess your gate as soon as these indicators are found so all key issues can be detected and repaired.

4 Sure Gates has inspected, repaired, and maintained gates throughout Texas for years! Our specialists can correct major gate issues and repair or restore gates correctly, or replace them entirely if needed. Contact us today to get a quote for your service and get your gate working safely again!