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

How to Choose the Right Security Gates for Your Commercial Property

June 09, 2022

In the US, a burglary occurs every 22.6 seconds. For businesses, a break-in can result in serious property damage, loss of valuable merchandise, and costly downtime.

One of the best ways to protect your commercial facility is to install a heavy-duty security gate. Having outdated, broken, or a complete lack of gates makes your facility an easy target for burglars, vandals, trespassers, and other intruders.

Here are several factors to consider when shopping for the right security gate:

Mode of Operation: Manual vs. Automated

Manual gates are often more affordable and easier to maintain than electric systems. They also don’t rely on power, meaning you don’t have to worry about access when electricity is out.

Because someone always has to be present to operate the gate, manual gates can be slow and labor-intensive.

Electric security gates are designed for convenience. This is why they’re perfect for facilities with high volumes of people or vehicles entering and exiting at all hours of the day.

Electric gates are operated using a press of a button, a remote control, or a computer command. They help save time, reduce staffing requirements, and boost productivity.

They can, however, cost more than manual systems. You’ll also have to comply with the manufacturer’s maintenance guidelines.

Design and Configuration

Aside from deciding between a manual and automatic system, it’s also wise to consider the different designs and configurations available. Each type offers unique applications and advantages.

Sliding Gates – Commonly used on driveways, this type of gate has rollers at the bottom to facilitate sliding.

Swinging Gates – These open by swinging to the left or right, and they are attached to the wall using hinges.

Scissor Gates – These are folded to allow entry and stretched to provide a lockable barrier. Scissor gates are perfect for situations where compact and secure access is a priority, but visibility and ventilation are necessary.

Vertical Lift Gates – These are widely used in storefront doors and warehouse entry points. The gate slides up to allow access and rolls back down to close.

Access Mechanism

Access mechanisms have become sophisticated over the years. You can choose from:

Key Cards – They are swiped to gain access to the gate. These are often used in automated parking lots.

Biometric Security Systems – Facial recognition and fingerprint scanners are used to identify people quickly and allow access. These are ideal for the high-security areas of a commercial facility.

Phone Entry And Remote Control – This option allows entry using a smartphone or a special remote control.

Commercial Gates Power Source

If you decide to go with an automated gate, you’ll have to pick a source of power. Of course, you can always rely on electricity that powers the rest of your property. But if you want a cheaper and more environmentally friendly power source, then you should consider solar power.

Safeguard Your Property with High Quality Commercial Gates

4 Sure Gates does all types of commercial gate installation projects. We install sliding and swing gates that help heighten security and increase the curb appeal of your property. Our team is available around the clock, and we’ll be happy to help you choose the right gate type and design for your facility.

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.

When to Repair or Replace Automatic Gates: An Easy Guide

April 28, 2022

Well-maintained automatic gates can last over 20 years, while the gate opener takes about ten years. However, certain factors such as hardware issues, electrical failure, and poor installation can cut this short.

Most of these problems are easy to repair, but there will come a time when repairs are no longer an option, and the gate needs to be replaced altogether.

This article will help you determine when it’s time for repairs and when a replacement is due.

Signs Your Gate Needs to Be Repaired

The following signs do not always indicate a major problem, but it’s best to call a professional for a thorough inspection. Here are some signs to look out for:

1. Your Gate Does Not Open or Close Smoothly

If your gate doesn’t open or close all the way, it could be due to obstructions, or you may have activated the “hold open” command. An electrical problem can also be a likely suspect.

2. Squeaking, Scraping, or Grinding Noises When Opening & Closing Your Gate

This could be a sign that the gate needs lubrication or that there is something caught in the track. Grinding noise can also indicate mechanical failure, while a beeping sound could mean problems with the battery.

3. The Gate Won’t Stay Open on its Own

The opener could have a problem, such as a loose connection, mechanical obstruction, or burnt-out motor.

4. Misaligned Gate Panels

If the panels on your gate are not aligned, it could be a sign that the hinges need adjustment or that the gate is out of balance.

5. Your Gate Swings Open by Itself

There could be a problem with the safety sensors, or the opener may not be shutting off properly.

6. Failure or Delays in Response

If your gate is unresponsive to the remote or if there is a delay in response, there’s likely an electrical problem.

7. Rust on Your Gate’s Hardware, Hinges, or Track

This is usually a sign that the gate has not been adequately maintained and needs to be lubricated.

Signs That Your Gate Is Beyond Repair

There are certain instances when it’s time to replace the gate instead of repairing it:

1. Your Gate Is Old & Outdated

If your gate is more than 20 years old, it may be time for a replacement. The same goes for the gate opener, which should be replaced every decade.

2. Your Gate Is Not Sturdy or Safe Enough

Automatic gates are heavy and capable of moving at one meter per second or faster. Without the appropriate safety features, your gate might cause a serious or even deadly injury.

A secure gate system should at least have automatic sensors, guards, and alarm systems for maximum safety and security.

3. Your Gate Needs Too Much Maintenance

If you constantly have to repair the gate, getting a new one can save you from costly repairs. This also goes for gates that are difficult to operate or need frequent lubrication.

4. Your Gate Is Damaged

Gates with several dents or are severely rusted should also be replaced. These issues can compromise your gate’s stability and put everyone who uses it in danger.

5. Your Gate Opener Is Not Working

If the gate opener is slow, stiff, or not working, it’s time for a replacement. This includes openers that are no longer covered by the manufacturer’s warranty.

Comprehensive Automatic Gate Repair and Replacement in Texas

If you’ve encountered any of these signs, it’s best to call a professional for a repair. However, if your gate is older than 20 years or you’re experiencing multiple problems, it’s time for a replacement.

At 4 Sure Gates, we provide reliable and affordable repairs for Texas residential and commercial property owners. With over 15 years of experience, your automatic gate will be up and running in no time. Reach out to us today for a free consultation!

Choosing the Perfect Driveway Gate

April 21, 2022

A driveway gate can do a lot more than just keep outsiders away from your home. The right gate can transform your home’s exterior and increase privacy. What’s more, if you choose an automatic one, you’ll never have to leave the car and walk out into the rain to open the gate ever again.

The question now lies in whether you can choose the perfect driveway gate for your property. With so many gate types and designs to choose from, something that seems like a simple decision can quickly become complex.

If you’re not sure which driveway gate works best for you, read on to learn what to consider when choosing a driveway gate for your home.

Know What Kind of Driveway Gate You Want

The first thing that you should think about when looking for the perfect driveway gate is the function that you want it to address. Does its attractiveness matter most to you, or would you prefer a simple gate as long as it’s automatic? Do you want one that delivers the most security? Knowing what you’re looking for in terms of its primary purpose can make choosing the right one a faster and easier process.

Decide Which Material Your Driveway Gate Should Be Made From

Besides function, you can also differentiate driveway gates through the materials used to make them. Specific materials lend themselves well to certain uses. Steel’s sturdy nature creates better security gates than aluminum, but the latter’s shiny and minimalist appearance makes it a popular choice among owners of modern homes.

Timber and wrought iron are other popular choices for driveway gates, and there are material combinations that make for unique-looking gates. The best gate materials will surely command top dollar, and the pricing could influence which gate will end up on your driveway.

Know How Much Space Your Property Has

The available space on your property is one of the first things you should consider when you’re looking for the right driveway gate. You may have found the perfect gate that ticks all the boxes, but that would be useless if your property doesn’t have enough room for it.

When purchasing a gate, your property’s dimensions should always be top of mind. The manufacturer should be able to recommend gate products that would fit well into your space.

Select a Style for Your Driveway Gate That Suits Your Home

Another important factor that you should look into is the style of driveway gate you want. You can look at the driveway gate as an important feature that can make or break the look of your home.

If you live in a neighborhood that requires its residents to respect a certain aesthetic, such as one with an HOA, it’s important to choose a gate that doesn’t break the rules while still enhancing your property’s exterior. It might make the search tougher, but the end result is worth it.

Research What Type of Driveway Gate You Want

Gates are about functionality and security as much as they are about looks. For this reason, it can be tough to figure out which gate type suits your property’s needs the best.

Read about the different gate types that you can have installed. For instance, swing gates are some of the most popular, but they aren’t the best option for properties with small driveways.

Get the Perfect Gate for Your Property

Add beauty and functionality to your property with the perfect gate. With these tips we’ve given you, you’ll be able to find a gate that not only looks attractive but also works well with your home and lifestyle.

If you’re interested in learning more about driveway gates, talk to the experts at 4 Sure Gates. We’re backed by years of experience providing quality gates to Forth Worth, TX homeowners. Contact us to learn more about our services.

How Does A High-Quality Gate Increase Property Value?

April 14, 2022

Your home is one of the biggest investments you’ll make in your lifetime. The good news is it can provide significant returns when you sell it in the future. For this reason, it’s almost always a good idea to spend on upgrades and updates that beautify and add value to your home.

There are multiple ways to boost property value, but installing new gates isn’t usually what comes to mind first. Most people look at replacing their roof or improving their home’s landscaping to boost its curb appeal. However, investing in a high-quality gate can do wonders for your property. Installing a top-quality driveway gate to your home can increase your home’s value in multiple ways!

A Driveway Gate Increases Your Home’s Curb Appeal

One of the biggest benefits a high-quality driveway gate can have for your home is increased curb appeal. The way your property looks when viewed from the street can greatly influence its value. According to Realtor.com, residential properties with high curb appeal sell for an average of 7% more than similar homes with less attractive exteriors.

A well-built automatic gate can easily raise your home’s value. A stylish gate will easily catch the attention of passersby and potential buyers should you decide to sell your home.

A High-Quality Gate Provides Privacy to Your Home

Your home is the place where you can escape from the world and unwind after a long day. However, it can be hard to let your hair down if your front door can easily be accessed by anyone walking by your house.

A well-placed gate ensures no stranger will easily be able to enter your property. Whether you buy a manual or automatic gate, having a physical barrier between your home and the outside world will provide an extra layer of privacy to let you and your family live peacefully.

Potential buyers also value privacy in properties. Like you, they don’t want to worry about strangers walking to the front door without a gate to bar their way.

Gates Add Security for Your Children & Pets

A good gate will give you peace of mind as your kids can roam around your property without fear of them leaving your home or being taken.

This is true for pets as well. While putting trackers on your fur babies will allow you to keep tabs on their location, having a physical barrier that prevents them from wandering off the property and into the street helps keep them safe from vehicles and individuals who may wish to do them harm.

Make Your Home Look More Upscale with a Driveway Gate

If your home is going for a specific feel, the right gate can add that touch of elegance that it’s missing. A well-designed gate that complements your home’s architectural style and comes with all the bells and whistles can easily make your home look and feel like a million bucks. You can be sure that future buyers will be impressed as well.

Boost Your Property’s Value With an Automatic Gate

It might seem like a minor change, but installing the perfect gate on your property can transform its exterior from average to amazing.

If you’re looking for the perfect gate to complement your home and add to its value, get in touch with the experts at 4 Sure Gates. We provide top-of-the-line gate products to homes and businesses throughout Dallas and Fort Worth, TX.

Talk to us today to learn more about our services.

How to Choose a Suitable Gate Design for Your Property

April 07, 2022

Property gates typically influence property value. Gates are among the highest ROI-earning property features, with a quality gate boosting a home’s value by as much as $50,000.

Property gates don’t just increase the overall curb appeal—they provide a sense of protection for the property. They also enhance the home’s elegance and appearance of sophistication.

The increase in demand for real estate and the search for ways to increase home value has led to many clients asking 4 Sure Gates about gate design.

Beautifully designed gates are visually appealing and deliver ROI when the time comes for homeowners to sell their properties. However, choosing the design wisely is important; otherwise, you risk putting off potential buyers. When choosing a design for your gate, consider the following:

Your Home’s Style

Common home styles include contemporary, modern, colonial, Tudor, Victorian, and Cape Cod. Identify your property’s architectural style and keep it firmly in mind as you choose your gate design. To fully enhance your home’s curb appeal and underscore its style, you need a gate that matches it as much as possible.

Or if you have plans to remodel your home to change its style, you have to choose a gate that will match or complement it. Your gate should not look out of place: for instance, an ornate, cast iron gate would look odd with a modern, minimalist exterior. On the other hand, a sleek motorized gate would complement a contemporary home while also adding functionality.

Gate Space or Property Location

Regardless of how much you may want a grand, estate-type gate, you may not have the room for it. It’s crucial to accurately measure your gate to fit your space perfectly. The measurement of your driveway and the gate itself can differ significantly, and you have to leave room for the gate to swing or roll open as needed.

Gate Functionality & Accessibility

Some gates may appear aesthetically beautiful and match your home style well, but they may not be built for the purpose you’re looking for. If you’re primarily seeking a gate for security purposes, a wooden, rustic gate may not provide the best option.

If you want a gate that’s easy to open and close, you might consider getting a motorized sliding gate rather than a wrought iron one that has to swing open and may be too heavy for convenience.

Gate Types

Standard gates first come into mind when you think of residential gates. Often made of wood, iron, or steel, they can swing internally, externally, or slide open. They all have their benefits, depending on the amount of space you have and whether or not your property opens up into the street.

Electric gates are motorized gate options that can open automatically for you. This is incredibly convenient for people who often come in and out of their property in large vehicles. It eliminates the need to exit and enter the car just to open the gate. However, they can be costlier than standard gates.

HOA Guidelines On Your Gate Design

Homeowners associations typically have notoriously strict rules and regulations about gates’ appearance, size, and height. This is often because the aesthetic appearance of one home can affect the property values of the rest of the neighborhood.

Before designing your gate, look through your HOA’s guidelines and restrictions and ensure that the gate you’re about to install adheres to them.

Consult with Automatic Gate Design Experts to Find the Perfect Fit!

If you’re unsure of the best type of gate for your home, or where to begin designing the perfect gate for your property, it’s always best to consult the experts. We have plenty of experience in designing and measuring gates. Furthermore, we are aware of all the different options that you may not have previously considered.

4 Sure Gates has helped property owners across Texas design the perfect gate for their homes. With our full range of gate types and materials, you can select a custom gate option that matches your home’s aesthetics while giving you convenient features for utility purposes.

Contact us today for a consultation or read about our gate services.

Swing Gate Openers: 5 of the Best Types Currently Available

March 31, 2022

There are plenty of possible designs that you can use on your driveway gate if you want to raise your home’s curb appeal. However, you mustn’t overlook the quality of the individual parts that make up your gate.

One of these parts is the opener. In this article, we’ll share the five best types of swing gate openers available and provide you with some tips on how to choose the right one for your needs.

1. Chain Drive Swing Gate Opener

If you’re looking for the best type of swing gate opener, chain drives are usually at the top of a lot of lists. Chain drives are strong and can handle large weight capacities. They may be a bit pricey, but they can be worth the investment because they will last for many years with minimal maintenance.

Expert Tip: If you have a heavy gate, it will require a stronger type of opener. Aside from chain drives, it would be best to look for a swing gate opener with a belt or screw drive.

2. Belt Drive

Another great type of swing gate opener is the belt drive. Like chains, they are incredibly strong and can handle large weight capacities. They are also comparably priced to chains, so they offer good value for your money.

Expert Tip: Keep in mind that belt drives are not as strong as chain drives, so they may struggle to open very heavy gates.

3. Screw Drive

A screw drive type of swing gate opener works similarly to belt drives, but they’re a little bit cheaper and don’t have as much power as belt drives do.

Expert Tip: Screw drives are also known for being a bit more susceptible to wear and tear than other types of swing gate openers.

4. Direct Drive

Direct drive is the fourth-best type of swing gate opener. While direct drives can handle large weight capacities like most other drive types, they have a limited lifespan of just three to five years. They’re also comparably priced to screw drives.

Expert Tip: In most cases, direct drives are ideal for light gates. Lower motor wattages will also be a better fit if the gate is lightweight.

5. Jackshaft Swing Gate Opener

Last but certainly not least is the jackshaft opening system. Like direct drives, jackshaft systems can handle large weight capacities. The major difference between the two is that jackshaft systems are not as cost-efficient as direct drives are. However, jackshafts are known to have a limited lifespan.

Expert Tip: Jackshaft systems are ideal for heavy gates and high motor wattages. In this case, a direct drive would not be capable of handling the gate.

Ask For Advice

These five types of openers are special in their own right, so it’s important to do further research before making a final decision. If you’re not sure which type of opener is right for you, don’t be afraid to ask a professional installer for advice. They will be able to help you find the perfect opener for your needs and budget.

4 Sure Gates is your premier automatic gate contractor that offers a wide variety of gate-related services. If you’re trying to choose the right opener for your next driveway gate, contact us today. Our team would be glad to answer any questions or provide you with a free estimate.

Keep Kids & Pets Safe From Automatic Gates With These Tips

March 17, 2022

Without the proper safety measures and precautions, automatic gates can be very dangerous, especially for small children or animals. Accidents caused by automatic gates have led the Consumer Product Safety Commission to launch Operation Safe Gate, which provides reminders and awareness for communities about how to keep kids and animals safe around automatic gates.

4 Sure Gates, having installed countless manual and automatic gates throughout Texas, always puts the safety of the property owners at the forefront of every automatic gate installation. While there have been far fewer incidents of accidents around automatic gates in recent years, it’s always important to establish safety measures to protect children and pets.

Maintain Your Gate’s Motor

Ultimately, the motor is what makes the automatic gate move, propelling it open or closed. It’s crucial to keep the gate’s motor running properly. Regularly inspect the motor at least once a month. Check for debris, moisture, pest infestation, and anything else that might get into the system that may cause it to malfunction.

Another way to ensure that it is running correctly is to upgrade it. If you’ve had the gate and the motor for several years to a decade, it’s best to upgrade it to a new one with better features. Make sure your gate motor hasn’t outlived its lifespan.

Inspect Your Automatic Gates for Debris

Inspect the gate regularly for debris. If you’re sweeping your yard or your driveway, take the time to check the gate’s tracks or its rail. Inspect for any sign of debris that might get in the way of the track and gate movement.

Debris and obstructions like ice and snow can prevent the gate from opening or closing fully, causing damage and malfunction. The worst-case scenario is that the “jammed gate” gets the debris dislodged by movement, causing the gate to heavily and swiftly close, hitting whatever is passing through.

Always Be Aware of Children or Pets in the Yard

As safe as kids and animals can be within your property, adults need to maintain constant vigilance about where they are in the yard. At no point should they come near the automatic gate. If possible, speak to your kids and remind them not to go near it. Remind them that it’s heavy and moves fast, and it can be hazardous.

If you have pets, make sure there’s an inner pet rail or fence that keeps them from going near the gate itself. Another method is to keep your pet on a long leash that allows them to move freely around the yard but not near enough to the gate, or an invisible fence.

Create a Separate Entry or Doorway for Pedestrians

At no point should pedestrians be passing through the automatic gate as a pathway into the property. Create a second doorway or a smaller gate entrance, a manual one, that allows people and pedestrians to pass through safely.

Keep the automated gate restricted for vehicle use, and instruct everyone in the family or staff to pass through the pedestrian gate instead for safety.

Have Your Automatic Gates Installed by a Professional

One of the best ways to ensure the safety of your gate is to have it installed by professionals who know the safety protocols and regulations associated with automatic gates. They can install it with expertise, ensuring that the gate is at peak performance and also at its safest for the people using it.

4 Sure Gates has had years of experience in designing, installing, and repairing manual and automatic gates for private residences and commercial properties.

Call us today for a consultation so we can assess your driveway and install a safe and dependable automatic gate for you. Or you can call our specialists in gate repair to ensure that your existing automatic gate is at its safest.