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Home / What Are the Different Types of Automatic Gates?
Automatic gates are a great way to enhance the safety and security of your home or business.
You can choose from a range of designs and materials to complement your building. These include stainless steel and aluminium construction through to durable timber slats. Plus, they can be opened in various ways so people can enter and leave the premise quickly and safely.
The most common different types of automatic gates are: sliding, swinging, vertical lift and bi-folding gates. Barrier arm gates are also a popular inclusion in commercial applications like car parks, airports and front entrances to industrial sites.
Which automatic gate is right for you will depend on your budget, accessibility needs and property layout. Some automatic gates are more expensive to install than others. Other factors like space and uneven terrain (i.e. hills, slopes) may also influence your decision. Fortunately, there are plenty of options available.
To help choose the right automatic gate, here’s a breakdown on how each one works and their unique benefits.
Automatic swing gates are a popular choice among residential properties as they’re easy to install and operate. They typically feature two doors on each side. When a user requests to open or close the gate, both doors swing in the same direction to permit access. Much in the same way a traditional hinge door operates.
There are some considerations to make with automatic swing gates. You must ensure the terrain on both sides of the gate is even. If the surface is uneven on either side, there may not be enough room for the gate to swing open all the way. There must also be enough space in general for the gates to open and close all the way.
Aside from this, an automatic swing gate is a highly practical and durable entryway.
For expert advice and support on the different types of automatic gates, contact Dunn & Farrugia today.
Automatic sliding gates offer a high level of security and protection for residential and commercial properties. The sliding gate itself is mounted parallel to the inside of the fence and slides horizontally from back to forth in order to open and close. Rollers are attached to the bottom of the sliding gate, which enables it to slide seamlessly across the track.
Another advantage to automatic sliding gates is their strength. Generally speaking, they’re harder to force open and they have less vulnerable points than an automatic swing gate.
Space is also less of an issue with these gates. Since the gates slide in and out, as opposed to protrude inwards and outwards, even a relatively small driveway can accommodate for one with relative ease.
These are a relatively new type of automatic gate. In essence, the gates move up and down to grant access. The gates are held together with a vertical support tower. As a result, cars and pedestrians go under the gates to leave and enter the premise.
Automatic vertical gates are an ideal choice if space is limited and the terrain is uneven. They’re also quick to use and very reliable. The intelligent combination of a chain drive mechanism ensures a smooth and precise performance, while the addition of counterweights helps ease the burden on the motor, thus increasing the lifespan.
Although similar in function to swinging gates, bi-folding gates require less space and are therefore ideal for smaller spaces. The gates consist of two gate panels hinged together. When activated, the gate panels fold in on themselves, which allows enough space for a car or pedestrian to enter or leave.
Because of their folding nature, bi-folding gates open fairly quickly. However, there is a greater amount of ‘entrapment points,’ so extra steps must be taken to ensure the surrounding area is safe.
With so many designs to choose from, you’re bound to find an automatic gate that fits your particular needs.
For expert advice and support, look no further than Dunn & Farrugia. With over 5 decades of experience in the design, supply and installation of domestic and commercial automatic gates, we can evaluate your property layout and recommend a custom solution that works for you.
Once you’re satisfied with your selection, one of our fully qualified and insured technicians will professionally install it for you. So you can relax knowing your gate will be fit for purpose and reliable from the get-go.
For more information about the different types of automatic gates, contact Dunn & Farrugia today.