Gate Ornaments: Are They Right for Your Home?

March 30, 2023

gate ornaments on a gate in Texas

As a homeowner, you probably take great pride in how your home looks both inside and out. Whether you are interested in boosting your house’s curb appeal or simply looking to make your home feel more secure, having an ornamental gate is a great option.

Even if you’ve already decided to install an ornamental gate, it’s easy to become overwhelmed with many different design choices. Many styles and materials exist, but we’re here to help narrow your options.

Keep reading to see whether ornamental gates are the right pick for you. In addition, we’ll suggest many affordable gate designs in Fort Worth, Texas, so stay with us.

If You Appreciate Aesthetics

If you value aesthetics, ornamental gates are the ultimate choice for a visually-appealing exterior. Ornamental gates are manufactured in various styles, using different materials – from classic-looking wrought iron styles to edgier fiberglass models.

You can find ornamental gates in a lot of makes and models, as well as choose from many colors and finishes. Gate ornaments can be fully customizable to suit your taste and the overall look of your home.

If You’re Looking to Increase Your Safety

Besides adding to the visual element of your home, ornamental gates are the perfect choice for ensuring the safety of your property. More than just adding curb appeal, ornamental gates are also great if you have small children or pets.

It’s an excellent way to safeguard your kids and your property and keep your pets safe to run around. Adding an ornamental gate on your property can be worth every cent regardless of which safety aspects you consider.

If You’re After Durability

Ornamental gates are built to practically last a lifetime, so it won’t be necessary to think about a replacement anytime soon after installing one. The fact that these gates are made from super durable materials (wrought iron, steel, etc.) makes them an investment you only make once and enjoy for years to come.

If You’re Looking to Add Value to Your Home

If you’re in the house-flipping business and thinking of ways to add value to the property, installing an ornamental gate can help to solve this problem. Besides boosting the home’s security and curb appeal, ornamental gates will increase its value, too.

Apart from house-flippers, homeowners that install ornamental gates add timeless value to their homes and leave a precious inheritance for future generations.

If You Appreciate Low Maintenance

Busy homeowners looking for a combination of curb appeal, security, value, and easy maintenance will get the perfect combo in an ornamental gate. Generally, maintaining a wrought iron gate can easily be done through an annual corrosion check.

If the iron is sprayed over and the paint starts to chip, a simple coat of fresh paint is all it takes to restore its appeal.

Find the Best Gate Designs in Fort Worth Only at 4 Sure Gates!

Congrats! You found the home of the best gate designs in Fort Worth, Texas, We at 4 Sure Gates are proud to offer you affordable gate-opening systems and reliable gate repair services you’ll appreciate. Be sure to check out our gate design as well – from commercial to residential gate styles, our designs are customizable, esthetically pleasing, and, most importantly, secure!

Let’s get in touch today — we’d love to help you choose your next ornamental gate!

How to Protect Your Iron Gate From Rust

March 23, 2023

If you have an ornamental gate on your property, you’re one of the homeowners that appreciate safety, aesthetics, and timeless elegance. Whether it is an automatic, swing, or sliding gate, all are prone to corrosion. As you probably know, rust is the number 1 enemy of iron. Nothing can affect the aesthetics and function of an iron gate quite like rust can. As the product of corrosion, rust can be a pain in the neck to get rid of, but nothing is impossible.

Keep reading to see how to keep your iron gate rust-free and where to find reputable gate installers in Fort Worth, Texas.

Clean the Gate Regularly

Regular cleaning will prevent particles from scratching the iron surface and keep dirt, dust, and sand out of your iron gate. Cleaning an iron gate isn’t hard; all you need is warm water and non-abrasive soap (your usual liquid soap will work fine).

Use a sponge to soak in warm water and soap and gently scrub the iron gate. After you’ve immersed the gate in soap and water, use a cloth to wipe off the excess moisture, and you’re all set. You can do this every time you notice rust beginning to form, but experts suggest annual inspections will suffice.

Apply a Metal-Protection Product

As mentioned above, metal, i.e., iron, can easily rust. Luckily, there’s something you can do about it. Special metal-protection products can help with slowing down the process of rust formation. Products like epoxy enamels, zinc, and silicone-based products are great for preventing rust from ruining your iron gate.

Some homeowners are particularly fond of these metal-protection products because they come in a selection of glosses and finishes, so you can safely choose one that won’t ruin the aesthetic.

Tend to the Rust Spots

Getting all the rust off your gate can be challenging, especially if you haven’t maintained it for a while. All is not lost, though. You need to regularly inspect your gate for rust spots, and whenever you notice one, immediately fix it.

Set some time apart to check the gate for rust spots every once in a while, especially if you live in an area that sees a lot of rain. Once you’ve found the rust spots, use steel wool or sandpaper to scrape off the rust and keep it from spreading.

Lastly, coat the gate in a layer of metal-protection product, and you’ll be all set for some time.

4 Sure Gates: Gate Installers in Fort Worth, Texas, You Can Rely On

At 4 Sure Gates, we aren’t just the best gate installers in Fort Worth, Texas, but also your most affordable option, too. Whether you’re considering adding a touch of security to your property with our access-control systems or you need immediate gate repair services, you’ve come to the right place!

Our professional staff will answer all your questions about gate repair and installation so that you can make the best-educated decision. Drop us a line, we’re always open for business.

Your Guide to Creating a Budget for the Right Gate

March 16, 2023

In the US, the nationwide rate of property crime fell from 2,025 cases per 100,000 of the population in 2020 to 1,933 cases per 100,000 of the population in 2021. Homes with proper gates and fences help deter unwanted visitors from committing common property crimes, including burglary, vehicle theft, and vandalism.

Property owners can visit their local gate repair company and discuss property security solutions that fit their needs. But if you’re unsure how much you should spend on a sturdy gate, we’ve rounded up some valuable tips and budget insights so you can get that gate project started without breaking the bank.

Planning Your Budget for the Right Gate

Creating a budget for the right gate involves several factors that you must consider carefully. Here is a guide to help you create a budget to ensure you get the right gate for your needs.

1. Decide what you need in a gate.

The first step to creating a budget for the right gate is knowing what you need in a gate. This includes the type of gate you want, the size, and the materials. For example, you may want a swing or sliding gate, and you may prefer a metal or wooden gate.

2. Consider automatic gates or additional features.

Installing an automatic gate will add to the overall cost of the project. You must budget for the gate operator, remote controls, and additional accessories or safety features. You must also factor in the installation cost for the automation components or other features.

3. Prepare your finances.

Once you know your gate needs and whether or not you want an automatic gate, you can determine your budget. Your budget should be realistic and include all the costs associated with your gate, including installation, automation, and any additional features or accessories you may want.

4. Get multiple quotes.

Get multiple quotes from different gate installers to ensure a fair price for your gate. This will help you compare prices and ensure you are getting the best value for your money. Don’t forget to ask for a breakdown of costs so you can see exactly what you are paying for.

5. Consider maintenance and repair costs.

Gates require regular maintenance to ensure they continue functioning properly and to extend their lifespan. Additionally, you must budget for potential costs associated with gate damage or repairs.

6. Think about the long-term.

When creating a budget for the right gate, thinking about the long-term is essential. While a cheaper gate may seem like a good option in the short term, it may cost you more in the long run if it requires frequent repairs or replacement. Invest in a high-quality gate that will last for many years to come.

Trust Our Gate Repair Company for Your Gate Needs

Investing in a durable gate provides long-lasting functionality that enhances your property’s aesthetic appeal and overall value. Considering several cost factors, such as the material, labor, and design, can help you find the gate that fits your privacy needs and budget. Contact 4 Sure Gates and get a free estimate today.

The Benefits of Installing a Gate Sensor

March 09, 2023

Gate sensor installation in automatic gates is a great way to increase safety and security around your home or business. The convenience of relying on an automatic gate has long been popular among households and public establishments. With this technological advancement, the global automatic gate-opening system market expanded at a compound annual growth rate of around 7% from 2017 to 2021.

But gate sensor installation provides more advantages than you can think of. This article will explore the different types of gate sensors and the benefits of investing in one.

What Is a Gate Sensor?

A gate sensor is an electronic device that detects the presence of a person or object and triggers the gate to open or close. This helps ensure that the gates are only opened for authorized individuals, thus increasing the security of the premises.

Various sensors are used in automatic gates:

Radar Movement Sensors – can detect individuals and any foreign material that moves but cannot detect stationary objects.
Pressure Sensors – detect changes in the pressure or weight on a particular ground area and keep the gate open as long as someone is standing or walking nearby.
Optical Sensors – are the most common sensors used in automatic gates; they use an antenna that produces a microwave beam to detect motion in front of the door.
Passive Infrared Sensors – store infrared images that create a distinct signal for the gate to open when the thermal image changes.
Active Infrared Sensors – have at least two receiver chips and a transmitter that protects door edges.

What Are the Benefits of Gate Sensor Installation?

1. Reduces Energy Costs

By installing sensors on your gate, you can automate its opening and closing, eliminating the need for manual operation. This means you can set the gate to open and close automatically at specific times, reducing the energy required to keep it running.

2. Improves Convenience

With an installed gate sensor, you no longer have to get out of your car to manually open the gate. You can simply press a button, and the gate will automatically open for you. This is especially useful when you don’t want to leave your car in bad weather conditions.

3. Monitors and Controls Access

The security of your property is paramount, and installing a gate sensor can significantly increase the security of your home or business. With a gate sensor, you can monitor who enters and exits your property, making identifying potential intruders or unauthorized individuals easier. Additionally, some gate sensors come equipped with cameras, which can capture footage of anyone attempting to access your property.

4. Detects When the Gate is Open

With a gate sensor installed, you can receive notifications on your phone or computer when the gate is open, allowing you to take immediate action. You especially need this when you’re away from home or have children or pets who may wander outside without your knowledge.

Let 4 Sure Gates Take Care of Your Gate Sensor Installation

Gate sensors are an excellent way to increase safety, security, and convenience around your home or workplace. They can provide automated access control, help reduce energy costs, and monitor who enters or leaves the premises. They can also detect when the gate is left open to prevent unauthorized access and reduce the risk of theft.

These sensors require care and expertise to be installed. Instead of doing it yourself and risking safety and budget, 4 Sure Gates can help you install them quickly and easily.

4 Ways to Upgrade Your Driveway Gate

February 16, 2023

Automatic gates are a great investment for any home or property. They can significantly improve security with controlled access to your property and can add value to your home. However, the benefits of having an automatic driveway gate go beyond function. They also provide a stylish fixture at your property’s entrance.

However, over time, your gate will begin to deteriorate, like anything else that must weather the outdoors. Luckily, there are many things you can do to upgrade your automatic gate after it has been installed, giving you a better working gate for a more extended period of time.

In this 4 Sure Gates Blog, we’re discussing four easy ways to upgrade your automatic gate! Keep reading to learn our top tips.

Keep it Well Lubricated

Experts recommend you lubricate the moving parts of your automatic gate every six to ten months, but it’s a good idea to add this into your outdoor routine. A well-lubricated gate opens and closes more smoothly and easily, effectively reducing wear and tear, and helping your gate last longer. Lubrication is a simple maintenance practice that really makes a big difference.

There aren’t many parts that require lubrication — the parts you should focus on are your gate’s pulley, chain, hinges, and screws. Add a drop of lubricant every month or so to keep it running smoothly.

Back-Up Battery

If you own an automatic gate, you know that there are few things more frustrating than trying to deal with an automatic gate during a power outage. If you live in an area where you experience regular outages, we recommend investing in a backup battery.

With a back-up battery, your gate will continue to operate in a power outage, and most spare batteries hold enough charge to support a few dozen open-close cycles. You probably won’t need to open or close your gate this many times while the power is out, but it’s also handy to have in case your usual battery loses its charge.

High-Speed Motor

Though they are a relatively new addition to the gate supply market, high-speed motors can significantly improve the efficiency of your gate, making closing and opening much faster.

If you notice that your gate takes a long time to open and close, a high-speed motor can be especially beneficial. A slow-moving gate isn’t just a nuisance, but a possible security risk, as the longer the gate stays open, the more exposed your property is.

Internal Gate Controls

Most automatic gate control systems come with an internal gate control, which allows users to control their gate from inside their home. This not only makes it easier to control the gate remotely but also allows those who have cameras at the entrance to see what’s going on from the comfort of their home.

For instance, if you were to upgrade your access control system to include a touchscreen keypad with a camera, you would be able to adjust the touchscreen settings, including what screen visitors will see. You can also set timers for specific days and times that allow for simple access control, and get notifications if the system experiences any issues.

The Automatic Driveway Gate Experts

For top-notch automatic gates for your home or business, 4 Sure Gates is the top choice for DFW and the surrounding area. We take pride in our work and our prices, providing only the best gate installation and repair services at an affordable cost.

Whether you’re looking to install a new gate or service an old one, get in touch with the experts at 4 Sure Gates!

Things to Know When Your Automatic Gate Breaks Down

February 09, 2023

Sometimes your gate’s issues are simple and can easily be fixed on your own, while others may require professional repair. If you’re having issues with your gate, try to remember that this doesn’t mean it is completely broken, it just needs to be serviced.

Some gate issues will be simple non-electrical problems like remote control or connectivity issues, while others may be directly related to your gate’s automatic power functions.

If you’re wondering what to do when your automatic gate breaks down, the 4 Sure Gates team is here to help. Keep reading to learn everything you should know (and check) when your automatic driveway gate breaks down!

Common Non-Electrical Issues

If you’re experiencing some issues that aren’t electrical-related, there could be a physical obstruction or something wrong with the wheels and track.

To determine whether or not the problem is electrical, shut off all power to your gate and try to move the gate by hand. Check for anything that could be blocking the gate, and take a close look at the wheels to see if the wheels are still on the track and if the chain is intact.

If your gate is near a garden or similar area with rougher terrain, rocks can easily get stuck in the gate’s moving parts or have the wheels dislodge from the track if a rock gets stuck.

If your gate has a remote control, and you’re noticing issues with it responding to the remote’s commands, you may just need new remote control batteries. Try replacing the batteries, and contact a trusted gate servicer if the problem persists.

Common Electrical Issues

If you’ve ruled out any physical or non-electrical issues, you might have an issue with one our your gate’s electrical parts.

If you experienced a power outage or a major storm that caused powerline damage, the solution could be as simple as turning your gate’s access control back on.

On some gate control panels, there are lit-up icons or indicators that can help you determine the root of the issue. If there is no icon or indicator light to help, the first thing you should try is resetting the power. Unplug every power source connected to your gate — a full reset is sometimes the only thing your gate needs.

The following things you should check are any cameras or motion sensors on your gate opener. If something obstructs the camera’s view, your gate will not open, so make sure nothing is blocking the camera or motion sensor.

One electrical aspect that may need service is the gate’s exit probe. The exit probe is underground and senses your car when you enter or leave your property. If you’ve tried troubleshooting everything else, you may want to call a gate professional, as exit-probe issues require expert assistance.

Other Common Gate Issues

The Effects of Bad Weather

If you experience sudden low temperatures, your gate’s metal components may start to contract, making it harder to open and close.

To prevent this, you can try installing styrofoam insulation and adding it to the sides and bottom and sides of the gate opener. Just make sure not to apply any styrofoam on the top of the battery!

Issues Opening Your Gate

If you have a swinging gate that won’t open, your driveway might be the issue — the door may not be able to open correctly because it’s hitting the ground. You will need to have the gate higher off the ground or swing the door the other way.

Also, the gate will not open if the safety loop sensor is triggered. Check if something is in front of the sensor — if nothing prevents the gate from moving, call a gate technician to come and assess it.

For All of Your Gate Repair Needs, Call The Experts at 4 Sure Gates

With more than 15 years of experience repairing and installing gates, the 4 Sure Gates team provides only the best gate design, repair, and installation services.

Get in touch with our team for a free project estimate — whether you need service on your gate, gate opener, or access control system, we can help!

Five Benefits of Installing an Automatic Sliding Gate on Your Property

February 02, 2023

If you’ve considered installing an automatic sliding gate on your property but either decided it wasn’t worth it or didn’t know about all of the perks, you’re missing out on some tremendous benefits. An automatic sliding gate is an excellent investment for many reasons — but when it comes to the security of your family, home, and assets, peace of mind is truly priceless.

In this blog, we’re outlining the top five benefits of installing an automatic gate on your property. While some of the benefits we discuss may seem pretty obvious, there may be others you haven’t considered.

Keep reading to learn the benefits of adding an automatic sliding gate to your home!

Increased Property Security

One of the obvious benefits of installing an automatic sliding gate on your property is that it is a great way to improve your home’s security. In fact, automatic gates with access control systems are often called ‘driveway security gates.’

An automatic sliding gate at your driveway’s entrance can restrict the vehicles and pedestrians you allow onto your property, preventing unknown or unwanted people from accessing it. Meaning your family, your house, and your assets are more secure.

If you want to increase your property’s security even more, you can add a camera system to your gate’s access control system that allows you to screen and view visitors as they enter the gate.

A Safer Space For Families, Children, and Pets

One of the best benefits of an automatic sliding driveway gate — in our opinion — is that it provides your family with a safe space to live and play.

If you have small children or children who like to play outside, an automatic sliding gate prevents them from wandering too far away from your home or too far into the road while playing. It also keeps unknown or unwanted people and animals away from your children so they can play outside independently without worry.

If you have pets, such as a dog or an outdoor cat, an automatic sliding driveway gate in tandem with a perimeter fence will keep your pet on your property and away from the street. It also prevents other animals from entering your property and injuring or messing with your pet.

More Privacy

If you’d like more privacy for your home or your property is in a busy area, an automatic sliding driveway gate is an excellent investment for your family.

Automatic gates can prevent cars or people from entering your driveway and yard, but the benefits go beyond just access. If you have a pool or enjoy spending time outside with your family, you may realize that parts of your yard are visible to the street or other neighbors.

To protect your family’s privacy and enjoy spending time outside without prying eyes, installing an automatic sliding gate with an attached fence is one of the best choices you can make.

Greater Curb Appeal

If you’re unfamiliar with the term ‘curb appeal,’ it refers to how your property looks from the street. An automatic sliding driveway gate can improve the look of your property, leading to a higher property value (see below).

Increased Property Value

If you someday decide to sell your home, an automatic sliding driveway gate can actually increase the value of your property. As outlined in this article, an automatic gate is an important feature that can attract potential buyers because of its functional and aesthetic benefits.

Homeowners value safety and security, especially those with children. This means that many potential buyers will pay more for a home that is secured with a gate.

Find The Perfect Sliding Gate Solution With 4 Sure Gates

At, 4 Sure Gates, we take pride in bringing the DFW are the best automatic gate installation and repair services at affordable prices. Browse our custom gate designs on our site, or call to work with one of our professionals. We’ll make sure your new gate is perfect for your property!

Get in touch with our team to learn more about our automatic gate services and get your free installation or repair estimate today!

Accidents Happen: What to Do When Your Gate Gets Damaged

January 19, 2023

Picture this: someone just crashed into your driveway’s front gate — fortunately, they weren’t hurt, but their car mangled your gate’s metal frame. Your once-stately entrance now looks damaged beyond repair… so what do you do?

Gate damage is never something you expect, but if your gate’s been damaged in any way, you definitely want to know how to fix it and prevent it from happening again.

Keep reading to learn how to assess your gate’s damage and prevent future accidents and who to call for a reliable repair!

Dealing With Gate Damage

While gate damage is a nuisance, it’s far from the end of the world!

Firstly, if the person who caused the damage isn’t a part of your home or business, you need to gather all of the evidence you can. If you or someone nearby has security cameras that caught the damage occurring, review the footage. If it was a hit-and-run, try to make out the driver’s face and license plate.

Gathering all of the information you can is essential, as you want the person who caused the damage to cover as much of the repair costs as possible.

Prevention Is Key

Though you can’t go back in time to stop the damage from happening, you can prevent your gate from being damaged again by taking a few easy steps.

For commercial properties, you can install barrier arms or gates. LED barrier arms, for example, work well for an entrance that remains dark at night. Some arms turn green while opening and are red when closed, making it easy for drivers to see where they are going.

Another preventative measure for commercial businesses is high-speed barrier arms that quickly close after a car drives through. The fast closure prevents tailgaters from entering.

Another preventative measure you can take, whether you’re a homeowner or a business owner, is to display warning signs on either side of the gate. This is an easy step that will clearly show where the entrance is; that way, you can avoid anyone accidentally running into it when pulling in or out of your property.

Remember to keep your gate’s installation and maintenance manuals and keep track of all completed inspections and maintenance. Never use a damaged, malfunctioning, or hard-to-move gate, as this will result in you possibly being liable for any injuries that occur if there is an accident.

Most importantly, never try to repair a gate yourself. Always hire a trained technician to repair and maintain your gate!

Protect Your Property

There’s always a chance that your gate will receive some damage throughout its lifetime. Still, by taking the proper precautions and hiring a reliable gate company to maintain and repair it, you’ll have no problem getting it back up and running in no time.

If you have gate damage, call the experts at 4 Sure Gates! Our expert technicians specialize in gate operator repair and installation and will walk you through the entire process.

Get in touch with the 4 Sure Gates team for a free quote — let us help you build your dream property!

Three Reasons Your Automatic Gate Has Issues Opening & Closing

January 12, 2023

Is your electric or automatic gate having problems opening and closing? It may be a simple issue you can fix yourself, but if you feel like you’ve tried everything in the book, it might be best to have a professional assess it.

Since automatic gates have many electrical components, it can be challenging to track what is working and what isn’t. But by practicing proper gate maintenance (see our blog on that here), you can extend the life of your gate and hopefully prevent future issues.

Though there are many reasons your gate can malfunction, we’re breaking down some of the primary causes you can check for yourself. Keep reading to learn more!

Interference With Radio Frequency

Most gate operator remotes will send a radio signal to the gate that tells it to open or close — when the gate sensor receives and reads the signal, the gate knows to open or close.

If your gate isn’t responding to a remote or sensor, your automatic gate’s radio frequency may be experiencing some interference.

Radio frequency interference is commonly caused by Wi-Fi issues, cellphone connectivity problems, or disconnected SmartHome systems. To determine the root of the problem, try turning off, disconnecting, or restarting all connected devices. These include Wi-Fi routers, mobile phone remote apps, and any other devices connected to the gate or remote system.

If this does not help the problem, we recommend contacting an expert who can run a diagnostic on your gate operator system.

Malfunctioning Limit Switches

A limit switch is one of the main components of your electric gate, as it controls the opening and closing of your automatic gate. When limit switches are properly connected to the control system’s circuit board, they tell it how far to open the gate and how far to bring in the gate when it closes.

One way you can tell your limit switch is faulty is if your gate sticks or stops before closing completely, causing a gap in your property’s security.

Your gate may stop entirely or stop and roll back open because the limit switch is malfunctioning and didn’t connect. Though this is tricky to fix on your own, hiring a professional to test the limit switch can help you determine if it should be replaced.

DIP Switch

DIP switches are an essential part of an electric gate’s control board and opening mechanism, and are also found in your remote’s circuit board.

If you’re experiencing opening and closing issues with your automatic gate, your DIP switch may require reprogramming, as this can be a common issue. However, this can be prevented if the DIP switch is adequately programmed during the initial installation.

You can reprogram your DIP switch to see if it solves the problem, but if this doesn’t work, you could have a bad remote. If you’re still not sure whether or not the DIP switch is causing the issue, call a certified gate professional to assess the problem.

Still Having Issues? Call the Experts at 4 Sure Gates

There may be times when you can troubleshoot your electric gate on your own, but it’s always best to have a professional certified gate technician help with any electric gate problems.

4 Sure Gates is the right choice for any automatic gate repair or installation in the DFW area! With an expert team, a variety of gate designs, and experience with the top brands, you can count on us to get the job done and get it done right.

Contact our team today for a free gate repair or installation quote!

How to Operate Your Automatic Gate in a Power Outage

January 05, 2023

If you have an automatic driveway gate, you probably already know it requires a motor-powered gate operator system, allowing it to open and close without manual force. Most of these gate controllers use electricity to operate, though it isn’t the only option.

So, what happens if your electricity is suddenly cut by a storm or power surge? The common fear is that your property’s occupants would be stranded inside or entirely locked out. Is an electric gate manually operable? If so, can you still rely on its security?

In this blog, we’re sharing our top tips on operating and troubleshooting your automatic gate in case of a power outage. Keep reading and learn how the 4 Sure Gates team takes care of business!

Open or Closed?

One of the biggest worries automatic-gate owners have is whether they’ll be locked in or out of their property during a power outage. If an automated gate does not default to ‘locked’ mode after a power failure, the gate provides less security, especially if that power failure happens at night.

Generally, most automated gates remain open during power failures — these are called ‘fail-open’ systems. With this kind of gate, you’ll need to secure the entrance to your property, as it will remain open until power is restored or you activate the manual override mechanism.

If you’re worried about the possibility of unauthorized people taking advantage of the power failure, ‘fail-secure’ automated gates may be a better option. With these gate controllers, the gate defaults to a closed position when power is cut.

Manual Release

Most well-known gate-control manufacturers now incorporate manual override features that ensure electric gates remain operable when power fails. The manual release mechanism is triggered with a key that disconnects the motor drive from the gate shaft, releasing the gate for manual operation.

Most gate opener instruction manuals will guide you through the manual-release process.

If you own a commercial facility with an automatic gate, your staff should be fully trained to trigger the manual release feature to ensure a continued flow of vehicles.

Backup Batteries & Solar Power

If you experience frequent power outages due to grid infrastructure, lightning, or rain storms, you should consider investing in a battery backup or a solar-powered opener for your automatic gate.

Battery backups kick in when your standard power is cut and give your gate power during an outage. This means you will not need to use the manual override unless the battery is flat, however, you will have to ensure the battery is charged before using it.

If you’d rather not worry about recharging a backup battery, installing a solar-powered system can help with any power outage concerns. Though these openers usually cost more upfront, you save money over time because you’re not paying to power it with electricity.

Take Precautions

You should always take safety precautions when working with your automatic gate. While your gate’s manual override feature will allow you to open and close it manually, it will not move as freely. You will need to push it slowly and steadily, as there will likely be some resistance.

Most gate controller manufacturers have specific manual release settings, which may differ from your neighbors. It is essential to carefully read your manual and fully understand how the manual override system works, so you don’t panic during a power outage.

The Automatic Gate Experts

For all of your automatic (and manual!) gate needs, the 4 Sure Gates team has you covered. Whether your gate is experiencing power issues, or you’re ready to install a brand-new system, we have the operators and designs for any property needs.

Get in touch with our team for a free estimate on your next driveway gate project.