Are you thinking about upgrading your property with an automatic sliding gate? You’re likely curious about how they work. This guide breaks down the essential components and mechanics, from the gate motor to the sensors, and offers insights to help you choose the best gate for your property.
Whether you want to improve security, have more convenience, or enhance the design of your house, understanding the working principle of automatic sliding gates can help you make a proper decision. Check out more of our services near Fort Bend, TX.
The Basics
A sliding gate operated via an automatic gate has a few essential parts that need to function correctly. Here’s a quick overview of how it works:
- The Gate: This sliding panel, made of steel, wood, or composite, slides along the side of your driveway.
- The Gate Motor drives the gate, which is mostly electrically actuated, but hydraulics can also be employed for very large gates.
- Track and Rollers: These rules control the movement of the gate itself, providing smooth movement whether the gate is fixed to the ground, to the bottom frame, or in a cantilever arrangement.
- Control System: This system allows you to control the gate remotely or using sensors, and it is very convenient to access.
Different Types of Automatic Sliding Gate Mechanisms
Each system has a corresponding set of advantages depending on the design and site behavior.
Tracked Sliding Gates
The swinging gates are mounted on a fixed ground track and advanced by rollers under the gate. While this system works well with many gates, it requires more maintenance, as debris like leaves or rocks can obstruct the track. Wear and tear also increases notably over time due to friction; often, there are repeated return trips.
Cantilever Sliding Gates
Cantilever gates, however, have an alternative strategy of not using the ground track. These gates behave more like a beam, supported by rollers on an associated spiral track. They steer clear of problems such as jammed rollers or uneven driveways and, therefore, are suited to areas with difficult terrain. Because of the lack of moving parts, cantilever gates are more durable and need less maintenance.
The Brains Behind the Operation: Access Control
Access control systems allow you to open and close your automatic sliding gate, and they’re a crucial part of maintaining security. Here are the most common options:
- Remote Controls: These feature some degree of easy access by transmitting radio signals to the gate and are thus a simple, robust solution.
- Keypads: A PIN code is required to open the gate, which provides additional security for street access.
Smartphone Apps: Many gates can now be controlled directly from your phone, even from a distance. For greater safety, certain apps provide extra functionality, such as remote sensors or alarms.
Powering Your Gate: Electric vs. Solar
Electric Gates
Electric gates rely on AC power. They are typically controlled remotely or considered in an area prone to power outages; it’s worth considering a backup power solution to ensure the gate remains operational. Electric gates are provided to residential and commercial applications, offering consistently high performance.
Solar Gates
Solar-powered gates are a more eco-friendly choice. They use solar panels to charge backup batteries, keeping the gate running at night or on cloudy days. Solar-based energy systems may also supplement an electric one, providing an energy-wise alternative for users who wish to make their energy supply less dependent on the traditional grid.
Now that you know how automatic sliding gates work, you can make a more informed decision about your property. There’s much to consider, from the building blocks to different power settings. Whether you’re interested in remote access, secure keypads, or eco-friendly solar gates, weighing all the operation right solutions is important. If your property’s security is compromised due to a malfunctioning entrance system, don’t hesitate to contact us for top-notch automatic entrance gate repair in Houston.
By choosing the right gate and understanding the operation behind it, you’ll enjoy enhanced security, convenience, and peace of mind. When unsure how the best type of gate fits your requirements, you can discuss it with an expert to ensure your optimal decision. Auto sliding gates can provide a high return on their investment with proper installation and periodic maintenance. Contact us today to learn more.
