Is your current gate not working as required? Do you require privacy and security in your property? Have you considered installing a sliding gate? Are you looking for a highly skilled and experienced expert to diagnose the problem, fix and maintain your gate?
A sliding gate
It works by running parallel to a wall or fence and has wheels that carry the weight of the gate. A commercial sliding gate can be expensive but they are heavy duty. With them, you don’t need concrete work or a steel beam. It has either a hydraulic or electromechanical motor that enables it to close and open automatically. It moves from side to side and is common in places with:
- less space
- In need of a pretty design
- Steep slope into the property that prevents conventional gate installation.
With growing technology, the maintenance of automated sliding gates has been enabled. Commercial sliding gate maintenance is important for them to work well and for a longer period. During maintenance, the following is done:
- The overall working condition of the system is checked
- gate automation inspection
- lubricating necessary parts
- calibration
Maintaining tips for sliding gates
- Prevent rust
Inspect your gate regularly for rust and dust. Mild household detergents can be used to tackle early signs of rust.
- Lubrication
After every six months, you should lubricate the moving parts like hinges, rollers, pulleys, screws, and chains. The sliding gate may break down due to friction.
- Keep it clean
Wash it annually, after cleaning you should wax it. Apply new paint once a year. Maintenance is cost-effective than fixing the broken parts. Always keep the door opener dry while cleaning to avoid damaging it.
- Inspect visually
Ensure all bolts are tightly screwed. The pivot points and bearings should not be damaged or worn out. Check out if any wooden part requires repainting, staining, or oiling for a wooden gate.
- Conduct an auto-reverse inspection
This should be done every month to ensure everything is working correctly.
- Maintaining electrical components
The circuit board that controls the gate is placed outside and is therefore exposed to dust, pests, and elements. Wasp nests and ant hills should be removed to avoid long-term damage. Frequent inspections are done to minimize electrical damage.
Maintenance services of sliding gate
The services delivered depends on the model design, make and the problem encountered. The components that need inspection include:
- Safety check
The loop detectors, safety barriers, photo-cellular, beams, open and close stops, and emergency fire exit are some of the components that need to be inspected.
- Gate hardware
The wheels, hinges, gear rack lubrication, locks, gate tracks, rollers, bolts, and fixings should be looked into.
- Electronic components
Wiring, output voltage, fuse, relays, control settings, and box condition should be examined.
- The motor
Clutch, motor brackets, oil levels, hydraulic or mechanical pressure, force, manual operation, end piston, and break should be at perfect conditions at all times.
- Access control
Fire exit, security open and intercom open commands, remotes, free exit loops, and push-button should be inspected for any shortcomings. To save on electric consumption, solar panels can be installed.
Should you service your gate regularly?
Yes, you definitely should. Servicing your gate regularly extends the life of the electrical and mechanical components. This ensures:
- Ongoing reliability
- Maintains security to the property
If you do not want your gate to break down and be forced to buy a new one or repair at an expensive amount, get servicing regularly and professionally done.
Find a good gate installer
- If a sliding gate is not properly installed, it could close with a large force creating a potential risk. A professional is better for the job.
- A gate engineer should have the appropriate knowledge, skills, experience, and proper understanding of how the gate functions.
- Gates are large and affected by wind. When done by a professional he might know a few hacks like adding spaces in them.
- They should be able to guarantee their work and offer future maintenance and emergency support.
- Qualified gate installers will know what safety measures to employ reducing the risk of accidents or injuries.
- The installer should include a manual release system in case there is a power failure or emergency.
- The typical installation manual shows the task and order but without the proper skills, this can take you a long time.
Benefits
- More secure
The presence of automatic locks reduces the risk of getting mugged when you leave the car to close the gate. Sliding gates are more secure because:
- you can’t forcefully open
- you can enter the property without getting out of the car
- Saves you space
You can park near the gate as there is no need of opening and closing the gate. Landscaping areas are not interfered with.
- Durable
Precision technology is used in the manufacturing and design of sliding gates. They can withstand any weather condition.
- Increase property value
They can be customized to fit your preference. If your property exterior is appealing, the property value is enhanced.
- Convenient
You don’t have to get out late at night or during a rainy season to open or close the gate.
Types of sliding gates
- Track sliding gate
Wheels or rollers enable the gate to move on a rail. Rail may wear out and therefore requires regular maintenance. This is suitable for business places and homes.
- Cantilever sliding gates
Two sets of rollers are attached to the wall. They are ideal when it’s impossible to install bottom rails due to a ground obstruction.
- Telescopic sliding gates
They offer wider entrance while utilizing less space as one panel slides into another.
Factors to consider before making a purchase
- Budget
Analyze your budget and create a spending limit. Find something within that price range.
- Material
Good quality material might be costly but worth it as it lasts longer.
- Measurements
Take the proper measurements of the gate you need to ensure it fits perfectly.
- Type
The landscape determines the type of sliding gate you can use.
- Aesthetic appeal
Choose a design that has an impressive look and makes your property appealing to the eye.
- Safety
A safety sensor should be installed to detect any abnormality ensuring total safety during operations.
Sliding gate safety
They operate slowly and someone without the right authority may sneak in with you. It is advisable to boost your security system by:
- adding a video surveillance camera.
- Introducing electronic keycards.
- increasing the number of gates.
- Employing a security guard.
Install sensors to help determine if there is an obstruction to prevent the gates from smashing cars or hurting someone when they pass. It is essential to put speed bumps before gate entrance. This slows down irresponsible drivers preventing them from damaging your gate.
Conclusion
Sliding automatic gates are becoming more popular and add privacy and security to your home. Maintenance should be done regularly on sliding gates to ensure the gate opens and closes with enough force. Electrical connections need to be tightened due to expansion and contraction caused by varying weather conditions. Ensure the maintenance service provider is certified and offers warranty, installation, manufacturing, and custom design to cater to your needs. There are some factors you should look into before maintaining or buying a sliding gate. Some of the servicing you can do at home like cleaning, lubricating, avoiding rust, and maintaining the electrical components. It is important to have your property or home secure at all times by ensuring your gate is in perfect working condition.
