Tag: Automatic Gate

5 Signs You Are Working With a Good Gate Contractor

July 08, 2021

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

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

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

1. Willing to Provide Important Information & Help

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

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

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

2. Offers Written Estimates

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

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

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

3. Signs & Honors Contracts

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

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

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

4. Shows Expertise & Workmanship

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

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

5. Offers Clear & Timely Communication

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

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

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

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

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

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

4 Signs Your Property Needs an Automatic Gate Replacement

June 24, 2021

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

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

They Are Safety Risks for People and Property

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

They Offer Poor Automation Performance

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

They Have a Broken Motor

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

Lack of Spare Parts

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

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

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

June 17, 2021

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

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

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

Superficial Damage: Rotting and Rusting

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

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

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

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

Structural Weakness: Misalignments and Cracks

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

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

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

Weather Damage

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

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

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

Get in Touch with the Pros

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

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.

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.