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

5 Ways Custom Gates Can Make a Difference to Your Property

July 21, 2022

Custom Gates in Dallas Texas

Considering that in Q1 FY 2022 alone, the Regulatory Services Division received 151 private security complaints, it’s no wonder that more Texans opt to install security systems, starting with automatic gates. Aside from enhancing safety, your gates must also be practical and appealing.

Choosing the right design, materials, and positioning of your automatic gates can make a difference to your property’s appearance.

This article outlines five ways your custom gate can increase your home’s curb appeal and differentiate it from the rest of the neighborhood.

A Custom Gate Makes Your Property Stand Out

An automatic gate is ideal whether your house has a lush, maximalist design or you’re simply looking to elevate a modest property by combining it with an alluring entrance.

Suppose you want to attract the attention of neighbors, visitors, or even random passers-by. You can go for an intricate design with numerous ornaments or high-quality materials, such as wrought iron.

A Custom Gate Enhances Your Property’s Aesthetic

If you’re more of a minimalist who’s designed their whole house and porch around easy-on-the-eyes stylistic choices, you can easily extend that look to your security gate. Choose a fitting color, material, or overall design that lets your gate seamlessly integrate with your property and enhance its aesthetic.

A Custom Gate Can Combine Multiple Materials

One of the best things about custom gates is that you can let your imagination run wild. Aside from choosing the design, you can select and mix the materials the gate would be made of. For example, why not mix metal with wood? Or, perhaps, add some plastic parts?

This way, you can create a gate that would fit in with your overall aesthetic of the garden or house.

Custom Gates Offer Protection & Mesmerizing Views

Consider whether you want your gate blocked or barred. Modern designs let you go for a closed look that won’t obstruct your view of your surroundings. The right gate design will secure your home while allowing you to enjoy the beautiful Texas scenery and sunsets outside your gates.

Custom Gates Reflect Your Style & Personality

Customizable gates allow you to choose a design you like that suits your style and character. There are no fixed rules, so you don’t have to get a beige or gray gate if the rest of your property is painted in these colors.

If you’re feeling bold, go for a scarlet gate or a color that is not typically seen in your neighborhood. This way, you will surely catch everyone’s attention.

We Design, Install, and Maintain Custom Gates

Once you know what you want and are ready to start creating your gate design, the next step is finding a reliable gate security company. 4 Sure Gates can help you design your gate and install it in no time.

Contact us today if you’re in Dallas, Fort Worth, Southlake, Grapevine, Arlington, or the surrounding areas. Trust us to deliver the exact gate you want—sturdy, durable, and uniquely designed according to your tastes.

Automatic Gate Parts That Need to Be Replaced Most Often

July 07, 2022

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

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

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

Security Sensors for Your Automatic Gate

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

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

Automatic Gate Overall Power Supply

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

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

Your Gate Tracks

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

Gate Remote Controls & Keypads

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

Automatic Gate Hinges

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

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

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

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

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.

Six Beautiful Wrought Iron Gate Designs for Your Driveway

March 24, 2022

Gates not only add a level of safety to your home, but they can help raise the value of your house significantly. The same thing applies to wrought iron driveway gates. They can even come with a wide variety of design elements that can take your home’s curb appeal to the next level.

In this article, we go over six popular design elements that you can get for your wrought iron gate.

1. Post Caps

If your gate post is taller than four feet, adding a post cap is a great way to make sure the design of your gate doesn’t look incomplete. Post caps can also help deflect water and prevent any damage if your area is prone to extreme weather.

Post caps have a wide selection of designs ranging from Victorian-era themes to pineapple-shaped caps. Additionally, you can add a few other design elements to your post cap. Some homeowners choose to add lighting, which is a great choice for opening and closing the gate at night or dusk.

2. Balusters

Balusters are the vertical bars on your iron gate that allow the design to flow from top to bottom. In most standard gates, four horizontal bars will mark each of the four feet across the top of your gate.

You can also play with the design of your gate by changing the shape or size of your balusters, or even hiding them behind climbing vines to make the look seamless. Balusters can add a level of depth and artistic style to your wrought iron gate.

3. Hollow Balusters

Hollow balusters or “baskets” are hollow pieces of bars that help provide an additional level of complexity to your iron gate. These types of balusters are similar in design to traditional ones, but they merge at the top and create a lacy pattern that is perfect for hiding larger gaps.

4. Floral Designs

If you’re going for a more rustic look, adding a few floral designs to your gate is a great idea. There are a variety of options for this, from iron flowers to custom carvings that mimic the look of vines and leaves climbing up your gate.

It mixes intricate design with the sturdiness of iron, making them a great representation of nature’s enduring beauty.

5. The Arch

One of the most common iron gate choices is a traditional arch. This type is usually designed to be wide enough to drive through. This design has been around forever because of its simplicity and functionality. It’s a good idea to have one on your driveway if you’re going with a more decorative exterior design.

6. The Scroll

Scrolls are pieces of metal that seem to swirl and flow. The scrolls design is another popular element in iron gates design because it can work with almost any exterior style. It’s elegant and understated, but it still adds the same touch of class for your driveway that an arch does.

Breathe New Life To Your Driveway Gate Design

Iron gates can be a beautiful addition to any driveway, and there are plenty of options out there that you can consider. These design elements we’ve listed should make choosing the right design easier and take you one step closer to breathing new life into your driveway.

When installing beautifully designed wrought iron gates, it’s best to rely on a competent gate contractor. 4 Sure Gates is a professional gate contractor that assists clients in installing or repairing beautiful iron gates. If you’re interested in having one installed, contact us today for a free consultation and estimate.

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

March 10, 2022

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

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

Signs to Look For in Your Automatic Driveway Gate

Does Your Driveway Gate Make Unusual Noises?

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

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

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

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

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

Is Your Driveway Gate Misaligned?

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

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

Does Your Driveway Gate Open & Closes On Its Own?

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

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

Does Your Automatic Gate Have Failing Sensors?

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

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

Correct & Repair Gate Issues Before They Become a Risk!

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

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

Pros and Cons of Various Sliding Gates

February 24, 2022

Sliding doors have come a long way—researchers discovered the earliest variations in Pompeii built in the first century. Modern sliding doors and gates follow the same concept, a doorway on a track with multiple benefits but far more advanced in security, automation, and durability.

4 Sure Gates has had many customers consider and request sliding gate installation because of their many benefits, as we will discuss below. But choosing the right type of sliding gate depends on what’s well-suited for your property. Each type has its benefits and downsides.

To make an informed decision on the type of sliding gate to get, consider the following pros and cons.

Rolling Electric Gates

Pros of Rolling Electric Gates:

It’s a commonly used gate, making it the most accessible option for private residential and commercial uses. They’re also ideal for wide driveways and take up less space than swinging gates as they will roll over a track and out of the way instead of needing space to swing in an arc.

These sliding gates often have an electronic system that allows homeowners to open them automatically. It’s more convenient to use and more secure as you don’t need to step out of your vehicle to open the gate. They can also close and lock automatically behind you.

Cons of Rolling Electric Gates:

Rolling electric gates are very large and heavy, especially for larger driveways. Should there be any malfunction with the gate’s motors or internal systems, for example, when dampness or moisture penetrates it, the gate will not operate. It’ll be far too heavy and troublesome to open on your own.

Furthermore, as these are the types of gates that don’t rely on a track and have sophisticated motors that enable them to function this way, they’re often more expensive than other gates by roughly a couple of hundred dollars.

V Track Electric Sliding Gates

Pros of V Track Electric Sliding Gates:

These gates use a V-shaped track where the gate runs along upon opening. They are ideal for use in commercial and private areas. Still, they are more suited for large commercial properties, especially those requiring high security, and frequently let in delivery trucks and other vehicles. This is more stable than the standard electric gates because the track keeps the gate in place.

Cons of V Track Electric Sliding Gates:

This is not a good gate for areas that get plenty of snow, as you’ll have to ensure that there is no debris on the track. Otherwise, the debris will cause the gates to jam and potentially cause damage to the system. Furthermore, the rolling wheels of the slide gate are susceptible to wear on the track.

Cantilever Sliding Gate

Pros of Cantilever Sliding Gates:

Because these gates don’t touch the ground, there’s no concern about tracks and wearing down wheels. It doesn’t need support from below to open the gate as well. The elevated gate has rails on either side, making it an ideal choice for driveways that have uneven or pebbled ground. It’s also suitable for areas with plenty of snow.

Cons of Cantilever Sliding Gates:

It takes up much more space than other sliding gates. They typically need 50% more space than the other sliding gate types because of the beams and suspensions of the cantilever. If you have limited space in your driveway, this is not a good gate to choose.

Consult with Specialists About Your Gate

Electric gates and sliding gates of all varieties need to be expertly and carefully installed to ensure that they are built and applied correctly to your driveway. If you’re unsure about the type of sliding gate that best suits your driveway, it’s crucial to consult with professionals who can give you more knowledgeable insight about the right fit.

4 Sure Gates has designed and installed private and commercial electric sliding gates for properties throughout Texas for years.

Contact us today for a consultation, and start designing the perfect gate for your home and get it installed as soon as possible!

How to Keep Your Driveway Gate Safe From Pests

February 10, 2022

Automatic electric gates are convenient additions to homes—they make your property more secure while making it easier for you to get through your driveway without having to get in and out of your car.

But just like any piece of equipment, automatic gates need proper care and maintenance. This is especially true as gates are exposed to the elements, making them susceptible to more than just wear and tear.

One of the most overlooked risks to your automatic driveway gates is pest infestation. Depending on the material your gate is made from, it might be more prone to insects and other critters than others.

How Pests Damage Your Automatic Driveway Gate

There are different pests that can infest your automatic gates, including:

Snails & Slugs

Snails and slugs can often be found crawling outdoors, especially when your outdoor space has plenty of plants. As such, it’s not a stretch to see them crawling on your driveway gate, too.

But harmless as they may seem, the slime trails they leave behind can reach your automatic gate’s circuit board, resulting in moisture buildup that damages it.

Ants

Ants can build a colony almost anywhere, even near or on your automatic gate’s equipment. If your gate’s motor is on the ground or close to it, ants are something you have to look out for since they can corrode your gate’s circuitry and damage the motor.

Spiders

You may see spider webs form between the railings of your driveway gate, but that’s not the extent of the problem they pose. Similar to a snail’s slime, the webs can cause moisture buildup if they crowd the circuit board.

Mice

Mice are notorious for chewing through electrical gate wirings, affecting your gate’s ability to open, close, and lock properly.

Termites

If your automatic gate is made from wood, you also have to worry about termite infestation. Though the gate material is treated and sealed to make it suitable for outdoor conditions, termites can still tunnel their way through the wood, causing your gate to rot and compromising its structural integrity.

How to Prevent or Resolve Pest Problems Near Your Automatic Gate

Getting rid of pests can be a daunting task, so it’s best to call in a pest control professional. However, there are maintenance steps you can follow to prevent pests from ruining your automatic driveway gate.

1. Always Clear the Area Around Your Automatic Driveway Gate

Avoid unwanted pests from getting near your automatic gate by making sure the surrounding area is clear. Get rid of pools of standing water, heaps of fallen leaves and branches, or garbage.

2. Clean Your Automatic Driveway Gate Regularly

Though gates can function with little maintenance, it’s still a good idea to clean yours regularly. Wash and wax your gate at least once every few months and make sure no pests are making their home in or around it.

3. Spray Your Gate with Pesticide

Keeping your gates clean should be enough, but as extra protection, you may choose to spray outdoor pesticides around your gate to keep pests away. You can do this once in a while or after every time you clean your gate.

Pests Got Your Driveway Gate?

If your gate needs repair after being damaged by pests, you can turn to 4 Sure Gates for help. Our Dallas-Fort Worth, TX-based team has over 2 decades of experience in electric automatic gate repair and installation.

Get in touch today to schedule an appointment.

How to Measure for a Driveway Gate

January 24, 2022

If you haven’t thought about installing a driveway gate, you should consider doing so for security benefits and numerous other reasons. Having a driveway gate is one of the top 10 best ways to deter thieves and burglaries. While it won’t completely deter all thieves, having a good driveway gate is an excellent step towards securing your property.

4 Sure Gates has years of experience creating and installing driveway gates for many clients across Texas. One of the first things that any homeowner should do if they’re getting a driveway gate installed is to make the proper measurements. A driveway gate is an excellent method of improving security, but only if it’s correctly fitted to the driveway or the necessary gap in the fence.

Here are the key steps to measuring your driveway for gate installation.

Look At Your Driveway Size

Some of the most common gate sizes in the US are 10, 12, 14, and 16 feet. Your driveway itself should measure roughly between 9-24 feet. Often, many properties are at the lower end of this scale, with just enough room to accommodate a vehicle coming through. Measure the length of your driveway with a long tape measure to find out what size your property has.

Considering this measurement, the gate you choose should be slightly wider than the entrance itself. For example, a driveway that measures roughly nine feet across will need a ten-foot gate. If the gate is closer to ten feet, opt for the 12-foot gate.

Consider The Vehicle You Drive

The gate’s size also depends on the vehicles passing through. Do you drive an SUV, truck, or car? A smaller gate won’t be an issue if you drive a car. But larger vehicles and recreational vehicles like RVs need more space to turn, thus needing a wider gate. They may be unable to pull in properly if the gate is too small.

However, having too wide a gate will not suit some homes and properties. This is because the larger the gate, the more costly it is. Furthermore, as the gate size goes up, so do maintenance costs. You have to keep it rust-free, well-oiled, and in the case of mechanical gates, the motor needs to be kept dry and in good condition.

Double vs Single Driveway Gate

While the gate’s width is usually straightforward, deciding whether you’d prefer a double or single gate can be a bit more difficult. First, consider which direction you want your gate to swing. Remember that your vehicle must have enough room to pass, but there must also be ample room for the gate to swing in the direction of choice. With a double gate, both sides of the driveway must have the space for the swing.

Let’s say you have a driveway that fits a 12-foot gate. You could select a gate with a single outward swing, which means you need enough space for a 90-degree arc at the very least. You don’t want the gate to go too far out into the road, as it might obstruct pedestrians and other cars. Make sure you measure enough space that the gate does not swing out into the road.

Consult With Professionals On Your Driveway Gate

If you’re still unsure about your gate’s correct size and position, you should always contact professionals. Their expertise will help you properly assess and measure the right size of driveway gate for you.

4 Sure Gates has years of experience measuring and installing driveway gates of all sizes and types. Our technicians can provide you with accurate assessments and even a detailed installation plan to take on all the effort of putting your driveway gate together.

Contact us today to get a consultation and just relax as your gate gets installed.

Manual vs Automatic: Which Gates Offer Better Home Security?

January 03, 2022

If you’re concerned about the safety of your home, one of the best ways to improve security is to have a gate installed. On top of acting as a physical barrier against intruders, gates are also deterrents. Burglars looking for an easy mark are less likely to target your house when you have a gate.

But which would be better for your home, a manual or automatic gate? In this article, we discuss their pros and cons to help you determine which is best for you.

Manual Gates For Home Security

Manual gates need to be opened, closed, and locked by hand. This presents a vulnerability as it takes more time to open. When you get out of your car to open the gate, it gives ill-intentioned individuals an opening.

The locking mechanism itself may also present a risk. If you use a padlock, bolt cutters will be able to cut through them.

However, manual gates are much cheaper than automatic gates. Small entrances would also not need automatic gates as they’re easier to secure with less expensive security options.

Manual models are also easier to maintain. And if there’s a power outage, you don’t have to worry about not being able to open them.

Automatic Gates For Home Security

There really isn’t much of a contest between manual and automatic gates in terms of security. The aforementioned risks with manual gates aren’t present with automatic gates.

You can remotely open the gate, drive through with your car without getting out, then close the gate behind you. It’s incredibly convenient.

Bolt cutters are useless. Burglars will need specialized electrical knowledge to get past.

Many automatic gates also have features that allow you to monitor who enters and exits your premises. It will, in most cases, eliminate the need for other security solutions.

Extra Functions

Automatic gates come with optional extra functions for increased convenience and security. It can be equipped with sensors that automatically open the gate when a car with the corresponding remote approaches. Audiovisual systems work particularly well with automatic gates by allowing you to see visitors and allow them entry from the safety of your home.

Unique and Varied Styles

Automatic gates are typically more aesthetically pleasing. There’s a wider selection of materials and styles to choose from, and they have a more seamless appearance. This adds curb appeal and resale value to your property.

The Downsides

Automatic gates have several clear advantages over manual gates, but they also have their disadvantages:

More Expensive:

As mentioned before, automatic gates are much more expensive, especially if you decide to add optional features. Manual modes cost about $2,500 while automatic models cost about $7,000.

More Maintenance:

Both the gate itself as well as the electronic system it uses need to be maintained. This further adds to the costs.

They Need Power:

Automatic gates are added inconveniences during power outages as the process to manually open them takes longer than with manual models.

More Prep Work:

Depending on the type of automatic gate, you will need a contractor, a landscaper, and an electrician to have one installed.

Have Your Gate Installed Today

Whether you need a manual or automatic gate installation for your home, 4 Sure Gates is here to help keep you safe. We have 15 years of experience providing professional gate services, and we’re happy to fulfill your needs.