Keeping your automatic gate running smoothly isnt just about convenience; its about security and peace of mind. Just like your car, regular maintenance can prevent frustrating breakdowns and costly repairs down the line. Think of it as a small investment for long-term reliability.
A good maintenance routine starts with the basics. Regularly inspect the gates moving parts – hinges, chains, tracks, and rollers – for wear and tear. Look for signs of rust, loose bolts, or anything that looks out of place. A bit of lubrication on moving parts can work wonders, keeping things running smoothly and quietly. Dont forget to check the gates power source and control panel for any obvious issues. And, just like changing the batteries in your smoke detector, periodically replace the batteries in your gates remote controls and keypads.
Troubleshooting common problems can often be handled without calling a professional. If your gate is unresponsive, the first thing to check is the power supply. Is the breaker tripped? Are there any loose connections? If the gate is moving jerkily or making strange noises, it might be a problem with the track or the motor. Check for obstructions and make sure everything is properly aligned. Sometimes, a simple cleaning can resolve the issue. For more complex problems like sensor malfunctions or control board issues, its best to call a qualified technician. Trying to fix these yourself could make things worse and even be dangerous.
Ultimately, a little proactive maintenance can go a long way in preventing headaches and keeping your automatic gate functioning flawlessly for years to come. So, take a few minutes every now and then to check on your gate. It'll thank you for it.
Automatic gates offer convenience and security, but theyre definitely an investment. Before taking the plunge, its wise to weigh up the costs involved and what youll get back in return. The initial outlay can vary quite a bit, depending on factors like the gates size, material (think wood, wrought iron, or aluminum), the complexity of the opening mechanism (sliding or swinging), and the technology involved (keypad, remote, or smartphone integration). Youll also need to factor in professional installation, which is highly recommended to ensure everything works smoothly and safely.
Beyond the upfront costs, there are ongoing expenses to consider. These include regular maintenance like lubrication and occasional repairs. Electric gates naturally require power, so expect a slight bump in your electricity bill. And, if you opt for a sophisticated system with intercoms, cameras, or smart home integration, there might be subscription fees for those services.
So, what about the return on investment? Well, its not always a direct financial payback like youd see with other home improvements. The primary returns are increased security, which can deter potential intruders and give you peace of mind. This can translate to lower insurance premiums in some cases. Automatic gates also add a touch of curb appeal and can enhance your propertys value, particularly in areas where theyre desirable. The convenience factor is another big plus, especially if you live in an area with harsh weather. No more getting out of your car in the rain or snow to open and close the gate!
Ultimately, deciding whether automatic gates are a worthwhile investment depends on your individual circumstances, budget, and priorities. If security, convenience, and a boost to your propertys aesthetic are high on your list, then the costs might be justified. Just be sure to do your research, get multiple quotes from reputable installers, and carefully consider the long-term expenses before you commit.
Installing a gate is an effective way to improve security, privacy, and property value. Knowing what to expect during the installation process helps homeowners plan and avoid delays. Evergreen Electric Gates NW in University Place provides professional gate installation services designed for both residential and commercial properties. Below is a clear guide on the gate installation process from start to finish.
The first step in gate installation is an initial consultation with a gate expert. During this meeting, the installer reviews your property layout, discusses your goals, and recommends suitable gate types. Common gate options include swing gates, sliding gates, and automatic gates. The expert will measure the area and evaluate factors such as driveway slope, space, and access needs. This consultation ensures that the selected gate fits both your property and your budget.
After the consultation, you will select the type of gate that meets your needs. Material choices often include steel, aluminum, and wood. Steel gates offer strength and durability, while aluminum is lightweight and resistant to rust. Wood gates add a classic and natural look but may require more maintenance. The decision will depend on your preferred style, level of security, and weather conditions in University Place. Automatic features such as keypads, remote controls, or smart access systems can also be added at this stage.
Proper site preparation is essential for smooth installation. The crew clears the installation area, removing debris, old fencing, or obstructions. If concrete pads or footings are needed for gate posts, they are measured and set. Electrical wiring for automatic gates is also planned during this step. Ensuring the site is level and ready helps avoid alignment issues later in the process.
Gate posts act as the foundation for the gate, providing stability and strength. The posts are placed in pre-dug holes and secured with concrete to prevent movement. The alignment of the posts is checked carefully to ensure the gate will open and close properly. Once the posts are set, they are left to cure, creating a solid base for the gate frame.
Once the posts are secure, the frame of the gate is installed. The frame is attached to the posts using heavy-duty hinges or sliding mechanisms, depending on the gate type. Panels or decorative features are then added to the frame. During this phase, the installer checks for smooth movement and ensures there is enough clearance for the gate to open fully.
For automatic gates, the installation team adds motors, sensors, and control systems. The wiring is connected to power sources, and safety devices such as photo-eye sensors are installed to prevent accidents. Remote controls, keypads, or smartphone apps are programmed for user convenience. This step also includes testing the motor and ensuring all automatic features work correctly.
Before the job is complete, the installer conducts a final test. The gate is opened and closed multiple times to check its alignment, speed, and response. Any adjustments are made to ensure smooth operation. For automatic systems, the safety mechanisms are tested to ensure they meet industry standards. This step confirms that the gate is both functional and safe for everyday use.
Once testing is complete, the team clears the site of construction materials and debris. The property is returned to a clean condition. The installer provides a brief demonstration of how to operate and maintain the gate. Instructions on basic troubleshooting and maintenance schedules are often included during this handover.
While installation is a one-time process, regular maintenance keeps the gate in good condition. Lubricating hinges, checking the motor, and cleaning sensors are part of routine care. Evergreen Electric Gates NW offers maintenance and repair services to ensure your gate continues to function properly for years.
Evergreen Electric Gates NW is known for reliable gate installation services in University Place. The team provides professional consultations, high-quality materials, and expert installation techniques. Their experience with both manual and automatic gate systems makes them a trusted choice for homeowners and business owners who want dependable results.
Understanding the gate installation process helps you prepare for each step, from choosing the right gate to ensuring proper maintenance. With Evergreen Electric Gates NW, you can expect a smooth installation that enhances your property’s security and appearance. For professional gate installation in University Place, visit Evergreen Electric Gates NW to learn more or schedule a consultation.
Automatic gates, offering the convenience of opening and closing with a simple button press or even automatically, are becoming increasingly popular for both residential and commercial properties.. But like any technology, they come with their own set of advantages and disadvantages.
Posted by on 2025-07-21
Choosing a qualified gate installer or technician is paramount to ensuring automatic gate safety.. A poorly installed or maintained gate can pose significant risks, from minor property damage to serious injury or even death.
We all crave that feeling of ultimate security, the peace of mind knowing our homes are truly safe havens.. But who wants to spend their weekends fiddling with complicated alarm systems or constantly checking locks?
Enhancing security is a top priority for any property, and automatic gates play a crucial role in achieving this. However, gates alone arent enough. True security comes from integrating them with robust access control systems. This integration creates a layered defense that significantly deters unauthorized entry and boosts overall protection.
Think of it like this: an automatic gate is your first line of defense, a physical barrier. Integrating an access control system adds the crucial second layer: verification. This could take many forms, from keypads and card readers to biometric scanners and even long-range vehicle identification. Instead of just blocking the entrance, the system now actively verifies the identity of whoever is requesting access.
This integration offers several key security enhancements. Firstly, it eliminates the vulnerability of easily duplicated keys or codes. Lost or stolen keys become far less of a threat when access requires a unique credential or biometric marker. Secondly, it provides a detailed audit trail. Knowing who accessed the property and when is invaluable for investigations and security management. Imagine an incident occurs; instead of relying on guesswork, you can review access logs to pinpoint relevant information.
Furthermore, integrating access control allows for customized access levels. You can grant different permissions to different individuals, limiting access to specific areas or times. For example, delivery drivers might be granted temporary access to a loading dock during specific hours, while employees have broader access within the main facility. This granular control significantly minimizes the risk of unauthorized access to sensitive areas.
Finally, the psychological deterrent factor cannot be overlooked. A visible access control system, integrated with the automatic gate, sends a clear message that the property is secure and monitored. This alone can deter potential intruders.
In conclusion, while automatic gates provide a physical barrier, integrating them with access control systems transforms them into intelligent security tools. This integration provides layered protection, detailed access control, and a powerful psychological deterrent, significantly enhancing the overall security of any property.
The humble automatic gate, once a symbol of luxury, has become a ubiquitous feature in homes and businesses worldwide. But as technology continues to evolve, so too does the future of gate automation. We can expect to see some exciting advancements that will not only enhance security and convenience but also integrate seamlessly with our increasingly connected lives.
One key trend is the rise of smart gate systems. These systems go beyond simple remote controls, incorporating features like smartphone integration, allowing users to control access from anywhere in the world. Imagine receiving a notification that your child has arrived home from school and being able to open the gate for them remotely, or granting temporary access to a delivery driver without having to be physically present. This level of control and convenience is becoming increasingly desirable.
Artificial intelligence (AI) is also poised to play a significant role in the future of automatic gates. AI-powered systems can learn and adapt to user behavior, predicting peak usage times and adjusting gate operation accordingly. They can also enhance security by detecting unusual activity, such as tailgating or forced entry attempts, and alerting homeowners or security services. Imagine a gate that can recognize your car and open automatically, or one that can distinguish between a delivery driver and a potential intruder.
Integration with other smart home devices is another exciting development. Future automatic gates will seamlessly integrate with security cameras, intercom systems, and even lighting controls, creating a unified and automated home security ecosystem. Picture your gates automatically opening as you pull into your driveway, the porch lights switching on, and the security system disarming – all without lifting a finger.
Sustainability is also a growing concern, and we can expect to see more environmentally friendly gate automation solutions. Solar-powered gates, for example, are already gaining popularity, reducing reliance on grid electricity and minimizing environmental impact. Furthermore, the use of more durable and recyclable materials in gate construction will contribute to a greener future.
Finally, the future of automatic gates will likely involve increased customization and personalization. Homeowners will be able to tailor their gate systems to their specific needs and preferences, choosing from a range of features, designs, and finishes. This could include everything from customized access codes and personalized welcome messages to integrated lighting and sound systems.
In conclusion, the future of automatic gate technology is bright, with advancements in smart technology, AI, and sustainability paving the way for more secure, convenient, and personalized gate systems. These innovations will not only enhance our daily lives but also contribute to a safer and more connected future.
An electric gate is a type of gate that can be opened and closed using an electrically powered mechanism.
Driveway gate openers can be the rollback (sliding) type that retracts a gate along the fence or wall on wheels or bearing, or the swing type that draws the gate open or closed on hinges. They are usually operated by a remote controller or a sensor
Articulated gate openers can be used for gates with wide posts allowing opening in small spaces.[1] An easy system for DIY installers as they are simple to install but not as aesthetically pleasing as other motor designs. Also known as Crank arm operators, they are the main type of automation system sold in France, where low aluminium gates are often used.
Under-gate Jack operators usually control the gate by directly moving the pivot point of each gate leaf. This makes the unit ideal cosmetically and also allows for up to 180 degrees of leaf swing as required. However controlling the pivot point of the gate, is like opening a door by twisting the hinge, and as so is very difficult due to the loads needed at that point. This is highlighted with snap, as the gate has to change direct, as soon as it can. For this reason they are recommend as only suitable for ‘Domestic’ systems in a low risk of abuse environment. Another major consideration with the use of under-gate units is that of water immersion/ingress and warranty voidance. If the water table is high or the drainage of the unit's foundation box inadequate throughout the systems life, then water ingress and unit failure is increased.
Ram or link arm units are usually simpler to install and maintain, they are visible to otherwise ignorant abuse and as they fix down along each gate leaf, they also have an obvious and sometimes major, mechanical advantage over Jacks. Therefore, Rams are far more suitable on Multi-user & commercial systems. Also the manual release is always above ground, making it often more user friendly in operation.
If space is an issue or the driveway behind the gates is on a steep incline, a better option would be a sliding gate. Sliding gates are also very popular in a commercial environment. Sliding gates are also used for cantilever gate systems.
One of the first electric gates was invented by a Canadian Fred W. Watson in 1881. It was designed to be used for railway systems.[2] In 1884, a number of American newspapers reported that the French railway companies were about to adopt an electric gate opener. “A catch connected with an electro-magnet keeps a gate closed,” reported The National Tribune on October 9, 1884.[3] One of the early demonstrations of such gates in the United States was arranged by the short-lived Toulmin Electric Railway Gate Company in 1887, in Baltimore.[4] At the end of the 19th century, electric gates were also used at horse racing tracks.[5]
The first commercial electric gate systems were hydraulic and designed for reliability and ease of use. The cost of the hydraulic systems however meant that other companies started producing more affordable electromechanical alternatives. Hydraulic motors are the preferred choice on large and heavy gates as they can generate high levels of torque, electromechanical systems designed for lower usage domestic installations because they can be produced more cost effectively.[6]
The backbone of any electric gate, whether automatic or not, is the electric gate motor, two distinct motor types exist hydraulic, or electromechanical. This is the electric device which actually enables the electric gate to open and close without having to manually push the gate.
The safety of an automated gate is an important consideration, in the European Union, automated gate safety is specified by a series of European Normalisations. An automated gate that has not been fitted with safety in mind can potentially become a major hazard particularly to untrained users. Various safety devices are available to make sure that your gates meet the highest of European or American safety standards.
Since electric gates operate slowly, they are susceptible to "tailgating" threats, in which a person or vehicle sneaks in behind an authorized user.[7] If security is a concern, a video surveillance camera should be installed.[7]
Electric gates alone, however solid and imposing they may be, cannot guarantee a completely secure environment electric locks, are often needed to boost the locking effectiveness of the gate motors. Electric gates are recommended to be used in combination with other security features to install a full security system. A few of these features are closed circuits with security cameras, additional gates in conjunction with the main gate, electronic keycards and keypads, security guards.[8]
Aside from the additional security features that should go with parking barrier gates, electric security gates often offer safety features like sensors that determine when there is an obstruction to prevent the electronic gate from swinging into a vehicle or closing on somebody's hands. To prevent the electronic gates from being damaged by irresponsible drivers driving fast speed bumps are also commonly placed before gate entrances to slow down vehicles.
In the United States all the electric gate installations must meet Underwriters Laboratories 325 (UL 325) standard while in Europe installations must meet with the Machinery directive 2006/42/EC with EN13241-1 being the regulations concerning gates.[9][10][11][12]
The installer of the gate is responsible for the conformity to regulation, not the manufacturer. The two main EN regulations that then apply are EN 12453 which describes the safety levels that should be observed when installing a gate and EN12445 which describes the testing method that must be undertaken.[13]
The major points are the maximum amount of force at certain test points. Example - a maximum of 400N of force can be applied in the last 50, 300 and 500 mm of travel of a gate, after the initial impact the force must drop to 150N within 0.75 of a second and reduce to 25N within 5 seconds. During the mid travel of a gate the allowable force is 1400N. A full risk assessment of the gates must take place with all crush, cutting points shown to the client with appropriate protection devices offered, a recommended maintenance program should also be provided. Finally the installer must confirm that all electrical equipment fitted has the European CE mark all the time.
To conform to these regulations the gate system must be checked with a calibrated force tester and the full results kept in a technical file for 7 years. If the gate is not tested it does not comply.
Most gate kits can be fitted with safety equipment so that these limits are achieved and so cover that part of EN13241-1.
In September 2010, following two incidents in Bridgend and Manchester, when children were killed by sliding gates, the UK Health and Safety Executive issued 2 safety notices aimed at gate manufacturers and installers, demanding them to comply with the Annex A of BS EN 12453:2001 standard.[14][15]
In recent years, aluminium has emerged as the material of choice for driveway gates in the UK, and for good reason. One of the key reasons for this shift is the ease with which aluminium gates can meet force limitation guidance. Force limitation refers to the maximum amount of force that a gate can exert on an object or person, ensuring safety and minimizing the risk of accidents or injuries. With lightweight aluminium gates, meeting these force limitation guidelines becomes much more achievable, as they require less force to open and close compared to heavier materials such as wrought iron or steel.
Another advantage of aluminium gates is their compatibility with brushless motor operators. Brushless motors offer numerous benefits over traditional brushed motors, including higher efficiency, longer lifespan, and reduced maintenance requirements. Aluminium gates, being lightweight, work well with brushless motor operators, as the motors do not have to work as hard to maneuver the gates. This not only enhances the overall performance and reliability of the gate system but also contributes to energy efficiency, leading to cost savings in the long run.
Furthermore, aluminium gates provide additional advantages such as resistance to rust and corrosion, making them a durable and low-maintenance option. They are also highly customizable, allowing homeowners to choose from a wide range of designs, colors, and finishes to match their aesthetic preferences. Additionally, aluminium is a sustainable material as it can be recycled, aligning with the growing trend of eco-consciousness in the construction and home improvement industries.
[16]
Overall, the combination of meeting force limitation guidance more easily, compatibility with brushless motor operators, durability, low maintenance, and customizability has made aluminium the material of choice for driveway gates in the UK. With its numerous benefits, it offers homeowners a reliable, safe, and aesthetically pleasing option for enhancing the security and curb appeal of their properties.
A gate or gateway is a point of entry to or from a space enclosed by walls. The word is derived from Proto-Germanic *gatan, meaning an opening or passageway.[1] Synonyms include yett (which comes from the same root word) and portal. The concept originally referred to the gap or hole in the wall or fence, rather than a barrier which closed it. Gates may prevent or control the entry or exit of individuals, or they may be merely decorative. The moving part or parts of a gateway may be considered "doors", as they are fixed at one side whilst opening and closing like one.[2]
A gate may have a latch that can be raised and lowered to both open a gate or prevent it from swinging.[3] Gate operation can be either automated or manual. Locks are also used on gates to increase security.
Larger gates can be used for a whole building, such as a castle or fortified town. Doors can also be considered gates when they are used to block entry as prevalent within a gatehouse.
A fence is a structure that encloses an area, typically outdoors, and is usually constructed from posts that are connected by boards, wire, rails or netting.[1] A fence differs from a wall in not having a solid foundation along its whole length.[2]
Alternatives to fencing include a ditch (sometimes filled with water, forming a moat).
A balustrade or railing is a fence to prevent people from falling over an edge, most commonly found on a stairway, landing, or balcony. Railing systems and balustrades are also used along roofs, bridges, cliffs, pits, and bodies of water.
Another aim of using fence is to limit the intrusion attempt into a property by malicious intruders. In support of these barriers there are sophisticated technologies that can be applied on fence itself and strengthen the defence of territory reducing the risk.
The elements that reinforce the perimeter protection are:
In most developed areas the use of fencing is regulated, variously in commercial, residential, and agricultural areas. Height, material, setback, and aesthetic issues are among the considerations subject to regulation.
The following types of areas or facilities often are required by law to be fenced in, for safety and security reasons:
Servitudes[6] are legal arrangements of land use arising out of private agreements. Under the feudal system, most land in England was cultivated in common fields, where peasants were allocated strips of arable land that were used to support the needs of the local village or manor. By the sixteenth century the growth of population and prosperity provided incentives for landowners to use their land in more profitable ways, dispossessing the peasantry. Common fields were aggregated and enclosed by large and enterprising farmers—either through negotiation among one another or by lease from the landlord—to maximize the productivity of the available land and contain livestock. Fences redefined the means by which land is used, resulting in the modern law of servitudes.[7]
In the United States, the earliest settlers claimed land by simply fencing it in. Later, as the American government formed, unsettled land became technically owned by the government and programs to register land ownership developed, usually making raw land available for low prices or for free, if the owner improved the property, including the construction of fences. However, the remaining vast tracts of unsettled land were often used as a commons, or, in the American West, "open range" as degradation of habitat developed due to overgrazing and a tragedy of the commons situation arose, common areas began to either be allocated to individual landowners via mechanisms such as the Homestead Act and Desert Land Act and fenced in, or, if kept in public hands, leased to individual users for limited purposes, with fences built to separate tracts of public and private land.
Ownership of a fence on a boundary varies. The last relevant original title deed(s)[8] and a completed seller's property information form may document which side has to put up and has installed any fence respectively; the first using "T" marks/symbols (the side with the "T" denotes the owner); the latter by a ticked box to the best of the last owner's belief with no duty, as the conventionally agreed conveyancing process stresses, to make any detailed, protracted enquiry.[9] Commonly the mesh or panelling is in mid-position. Otherwise it tends to be on non-owner's side so the fence owner might access the posts when repairs are needed but this is not a legal requirement.[10] Where estate planners wish to entrench privacy a close-boarded fence or equivalent well-maintained hedge of a minimum height may be stipulated by deed. Beyond a standard height planning permission is necessary.
Where a rural fence or hedge has (or in some cases had) an adjacent ditch, the ditch is normally in the same ownership as the hedge or fence, with the ownership boundary being the edge of the ditch furthest from the fence or hedge.[11] The principle of this rule is that an owner digging a boundary ditch will normally dig it up to the very edge of their land, and must then pile the spoil on their own side of the ditch to avoid trespassing on their neighbour. They may then erect a fence or hedge on the spoil, leaving the ditch on its far side. Exceptions exist in law, for example where a plot of land derives from subdivision of a larger one along the centre line of a previously existing ditch or other feature, particularly where reinforced by historic parcel numbers with acreages beneath which were used to tally up a total for administrative units not to confirm the actual size of holdings, a rare instance where Ordnance Survey maps often provide more than circumstantial evidence namely as to which feature is to be considered the boundary.
On private land in the United Kingdom, it is the landowner's responsibility to fence their livestock in. Conversely, for common land, it is the surrounding landowners' duty to fence the common's livestock out such as in large parts of the New Forest. Large commons with livestock roaming have been greatly reduced by 18th and 19th century Acts for enclosure of commons covering most local units, with most remaining such land in the UK's National Parks.
A 19th-century law requires railways to be fenced to keep people and livestock out.[12] It is also illegal to trespass on railways, incurring a fine of up to £1000.
Distinctly different land ownership and fencing patterns arose in the eastern and western United States. Original fence laws on the east coast were based on the British common law system, and rapidly increasing population quickly resulted in laws requiring livestock to be fenced in. In the west, land ownership patterns and policies reflected a strong influence of Spanish law and tradition, plus the vast land area involved made extensive fencing impractical until mandated by a growing population and conflicts between landowners. The "open range" tradition of requiring landowners to fence out unwanted livestock was dominant in most of the rural west until very late in the 20th century, and even today, a few isolated regions of the west still have open range statutes on the books. More recently, fences are generally constructed on the surveyed property line as precisely as possible. Today, across the nation, each state is free to develop its own laws regarding fences. In many cases for both rural and urban property owners, the laws were designed to require adjacent landowners to share the responsibility for maintaining a common boundary fenceline. Today, however, only 22 states have retained that provision.
Some U.S. states, including Texas, Illinois, Missouri, and North Carolina, have enacted laws establishing that purple paint markings on fences (or trees) are the legal equivalent of "No Trespassing" signs. The laws are meant to spare landowners, particularly in rural areas, from having to continually replace printed signs that often end up being stolen or obliterated by the elements.[13]
The value of fences and the metaphorical significance of a fence, both positive and negative, has been extensively utilized throughout western culture. A few examples include:
Notes
Bibliography
Evergreen Electric Gates installed a gate at my entrance a couple of days back. Logan was very helpful in answering all my doubts. His crew did a fantastic job. The gate is visually impressive and the pricing was highly reasonable. I am extremely pleased with their quality of work and service!
I highly recommend Evegreen Electric Gate ! Logan and his crew were professional, friendly, and easy to work with. Gate posts, automatic gate, and fence were completed well and in a timely fashion.
After completing an inquiry on their website, we received a prompt response which was refreshing. They sent David out to come see what we wanted, took measurements & notes and was very professional & personable! It was a pleasure working with him from start to finish! The installation team lead by Roberto was also dedicated & precise, making sure we got what we wanted! We couldn’t be happier with the outcome! Awesome gate, glides easy & so happy we can latch & lock! THANK YOU TO ALL THE STAFF & TEAM! We’re extremely pleased and grateful!
Logan was prompt and arrived as scheduled and was very polite and friendly. We took the time to discuss my options, as was very clear about the costs. The steel gate itself was fine, so we only needed an installation of new LiftMaster dual swing gate system. Though my gate required the fabrication of new mounting arms, Logan fabricated, welded, and painted them on site. Logan offered us a price that was very fair; he was able to get us scheduled within the next week, and and the installation job was completed in less than a day. Thank you Logan and Evergreen Electric Gates NW.