When installing electric gates, whether at a home or a business property, many people run into issues that could have been avoided with the right preparation and knowledge. Getting the installation wrong the first time can lead to unnecessary costs, frustrating performance problems, and even safety hazards. From poor planning and incorrect positioning to choosing the wrong type of gate for your property, there are a number of common mistakes that can affect the outcome. Here at Gates Gates, we supply a wide range of high-quality swing and sliding electric gates suitable for both domestic and commercial settings. In this post, we highlight some of the most common mistakes to avoid when installing electric gates.

Installing electric gates might seem simple in theory, but it involves careful planning, appropriate product selection, and an understanding of your site’s specific requirements. Unfortunately, many property owners rush the process or overlook key considerations, leading to installations that fail to meet expectations or have problems. Below are five of the most frequent mistakes:

One of the most critical mistakes is failing to properly assess the site before installation begins. Things like ground levels, slope, access points, and space for gate swing or sliding clearance all need to be considered. If not planned correctly, you might end up with a gate that doesn't open fully, becomes obstructed, or simply isn’t practical for daily use. Always conduct a detailed site survey and consult with a professional if you're unsure how to evaluate the space.

Another common issue is choosing the wrong type of gate for your needs or property layout. For example, swing gates might not be suitable for a sloped driveway, while sliding gates require adequate lateral space. It’s important to understand the pros and cons of both swing and sliding mechanisms, as well as manual versus automated operation, before making a final decision. Take into account how the gate will be used day-to-day and any potential obstructions.

• Ignoring Safety Features and Regulations

Electric gates must comply with safety regulations, especially for commercial properties or locations with high foot traffic. Failing to install essential safety features like photocells, safety edges or warning signs can put users at risk and result in legal consequences. Some installers also overlook the need for emergency manual release systems in the event of power failure. Make sure you meet the UK safety standards (BS EN 12453) and install all necessary protective features.

• Incorrect Alignment of Gate Posts

A common yet critical installation error is failing to align the gate posts properly. If the posts are not evenly vertical or are set at uneven heights, the gate may not open and close smoothly. This can cause strain on the motor and hinges, leading to early wear or even failure. It’s essential to measure and level everything precisely before securing the posts in place to ensure smooth, long-lasting operation.

During installation, it's easy to overlook how the electrical cables are laid and protected. Leaving cables exposed to the elements or running them in shallow trenches can lead to water damage, interference, or accidental cutting. Electric gate wiring should always be routed in protective conduit and buried to the correct depth to prevent damage. Taking the time to plan the cable routes carefully will prevent electrical faults and costly repairs later on.

Tips for Installing Electric Gates Correctly

Avoiding common mistakes is a great start, but there are also proactive steps to make the installation as smooth as possible. With the right preparation, advice, and support, you can ensure your gate delivers security, convenience and long-term reliability. Below are simple tips for installing electric gates correctly:

Work with a Trusted Gate Supplier and Installer: Always work with a reputable gate supplier who has gates that will meet the specific needs of your property. Here at Gates Gates, we can advise on the best gate type, automation options, and safety features. Choosing a trusted professional also ensures compliance with UK regulations and helps prevent any installation issues from the outset.

Plan for Power Supply and Connectivity: Electric gates require a stable power source, and in some cases, integration with intercoms, keypads or smart access systems. Plan how power will reach the gate, and that all wiring is carried out to a high standard. Consider options like solar-powered gates or long-range wiring. Planning early helps avoid delays and ensures a fully functional setup.

Consider Long-Term Maintenance: Electric gates are a long-term investment, and like any mechanical system, they require regular maintenance. Choose a gate and automation system that are easy to service and come with reliable technical support. Schedule routine inspections and make sure any moving parts are kept clean and well-lubricated. Planning for upkeep will extend the gate’s lifespan and ensure consistent performance.

At Gates Gates, we’re committed to helping homeowners choose and install the right electric gates. Whether you need gates for a private driveway, a business premises, or an industrial site, we offer a range of high-quality electric gates to choose from, alongside expert advice and installation support. We have both swing and sliding gate kits available, as well as a full range of gate access systems, intercoms, and accessories you might need. If you require any support with electric gates or assistance with installation, we’re happy to help. Head over to our website to browse the full range of electric gate choices.

The security of a property is critical for every home, and gate automation kits including sliding and swing gate kits can significantly enhance this protection. Automated gate kits are designed to prevent unauthorised access, offer enhanced privacy by restricting visibility, and provide a strong physical deterrent. They can also provide greater control over who enters your property, with intercoms and gate access systems, increasing peace of mind and further securing your property. In this post, we explore how gate automation kits help secure a home, and how intercoms and gate access systems can further enhance the security of a property.

Gate automation kits, also known as electric gate kits, are advanced systems designed to provide added protection and security for homeowners. These gate kits include all of the necessary components for installation, such as the gates, motors, control panels, sensors, and remotes - providing a full solution for home security. They provide a significant upgrade from traditional gates, offering enhanced levels of protection, privacy, and enhanced functionality.

Gate automation kits are available in different types, with two of the most popular options being sliding gate kits and swing gate kits. Both types of gate automation kits provide enhanced security, but each serves a different purpose and are suited to specific property needs. Below, we explain a bit more about each type:

• Sliding Gate Kits - Sliding gate kits feature gates that slide open horizontally, and they are ideal for properties that have limited space or where a traditional swinging gate wouldn’t be practical. Sliding gates move along a track, and can be equipped with a motor for easy automation. Choose between single or twin sliding gate options, with the twin system being better suited for larger gates or heavier duty applications.
• Swing Gate Kits - Swing gate kits are ideal for homeowners who prefer gates that open like a traditional door. These are best suited for properties with plenty of space for their gates to swing open and shut. Swing gate kits are also available in single and double options, with double swing gate kits offering extra security for larger properties.

Gate automation kits provide homeowners with an additional layer of safety and security, making them essential for anyone who wants to ensure that no one unauthorised can access their home. From preventing intruders from gaining access to your property, to limiting visibility, and providing a strong, secure barrier, there are many advantages to installing them. Below are three benefits of automated gate kits:

Automated gate kits are highly effective at preventing unauthorised access to a property, making it extremely challenging for any potential intruders to access it. With an intercom or gate access system, you can have complete control over who enters, ensuring that only authorised individuals can access your home. This control reduces the risk of unauthorised entry, providing peace of mind that your property is secure and can be easily monitored at all times.

Automated gates help to restrict visibility of a property with their design, which limits the ability of outsiders being able to see into your property. Traditional gates are not as effective at restricting visibility levels, often allowing people from outside to see in. This added privacy that automated gate kits provide prevents potential intruders from being able to assess the layout of your home, offering you a more secure and private environment.

Automated gates also provide a strong physical barrier that helps protect your property, deterring potential intruders. With their solid construction made from durable materials, it makes them extremely difficult to breach. Also as they often feature enhanced security measures and locking mechanisms, they help to prevent forced entry, further enhancing their ability to act as a reliable physical barrier.

While gate automation kits offer a range of security features, adding intercoms and gate access systems can further enhance security. Intercom systems provide homeowners with an easy way to communicate with visitors at their gates before granting them entry, ensuring control over who enters your property. GSM intercoms or audio entry phones offer a simple option, allowing you to communicate with visitors from inside your home and decide whether or not to open the gate.

For a more advanced solution, install a Wi-Fi intercom system with an app. This lets you monitor who is at the gate, view and hear their video and audio feed, and communicate via your smartphone. Intercom systems often include a keypad mounted outside the gate, which connects to your phone when pressed, letting you see the person and grant or deny access remotely. You can also use gate access systems, such as external keypads, to add another layer of security, allowing you and trusted visitors to simply enter a code to unlock the gate.

To secure your home and prevent unauthorised access, explore Gates Gates range of gate automation kits, alongside our intercoms and gate access systems. We understand how vital it is to keep your home safe, and our sliding gate kits and swing gate kits offer the ultimate protection with a wide range of options to suit every property.

Enhance your home’s security even further, and add an intercom or gate access system, making it easy to manage entry, grant remote access, and view live video feeds. We also stock all of the accessories, controls, and safety systems. To browse our full range of automation kits and access control systems, head over to our website today.

Electric gates are designed to provide a robust and enhanced level of security, and offer complete control to the access of a property. They are popular for use in homes and businesses alike, due to the combination of protection, practicality, and safety that they provide. Maintaining an electric gate system is a simple and straightforward process, and with regular care and some uncomplicated checks, they can remain functional for years. In this post, we share an introductory guide on how to maintain electric gates, and discuss how accessories and controls can help simplify gate maintenance.

Maintaining electric gates is essential for property owners to ensure that they continue to function smoothly, provide consistent security, and so they don’t suffer from unexpected failure. By regularly carrying out maintenance work on electric gates, it can extend the lifespan of the electrical system. It also ensures that the gates don’t encounter any unexpected problems or failures, which could compromise the security of a property and lead to extensive repairs.

Electric gate maintenance ensures that the gates remain an effective, secure barrier against any unwanted access and potential security breaches, giving you complete peace of mind over the security of your property. Without proper maintenance, the wear and tear from regular use of the gates can lead to malfunctions, inefficiency, or even complete system failure - making electric gate maintenance a practical and effective task.

It is vital to keep gates completely clean and free of any debris, and it is an easy maintenance task that doesn’t take long to complete. Dirt, leaves, and any other debris can obstruct the movement of the gates, which can lead to sluggish, slow operation, or even potentially cause gates to become stuck or jammed. Simply use a damp cloth to wipe down the surfaces and a brush to clear the tracks, ensuring smooth operation of the gates.

Checking and lubricating the moving parts of the electric gates is also important to maintain efficient operation. The moving parts like the rollers, hinges, and motors, are all vital to your gates operating properly, and over time these components can dry out. This can cause friction, leading to wear and tear and affecting the gate's operation. Apply a suitable lubricant to all moving parts, especially the hinges and rollers, to keep them functioning seamlessly and prevent any premature damage.

Periodically inspect the gate motor and mechanism, to ensure that the system is working correctly. The motor and mechanism control the gate's movement and functionality, so if they aren’t working correctly, it might result in the gates not being able to open or close properly, or even failing to respond to controls. Look for any potential signs of wear, unusual noises, or any electrical issues that might need repairing. By inspecting the motor and mechanism regularly, you can address any minor issues before they turn into major problems.

Many modern electric gate systems come with built in safety features, like sensors, automatic reverse functions, or anti crush technology. Make sure to regularly test these safety features, so that they are functioning correctly and don’t lead to any accidents or potential injuries. For example, a malfunctioning sensor could prevent the gates from stopping when it detects an obstacle or a person, leading to a serious incident. An easy way to test them by placing an object in the path of the gates, to check if they respond correctly.

Check the power supply and battery backup to make sure that the system remains consistently powered. This is crucial as it ensures reliable operation and prevents any potential disruptions. A faulty or unreliable power supply can lead to the gates not working properly, and a battery backup is especially important as it allows you to still access your property even during outages. Make sure that you regularly inspect the power supply and backup battery, especially during or after any extreme weather conditions.

Utilise accessories and controls to help with the maintenance and operation of electric gates to complement and enhance the functionality and ease of maintaining them. Electric gate lights can be added to illuminate the gate and the surrounding area, making it easier for you to see the gate’s position and maintain it, even in low light conditions.

Key switches also provide a secure backup control method if the remote or automation system fails, while reliable, high quality battery backups ensure the gates continue to function during power outages. Power supplies and cables are equally important, allowing you to maintain a consistent power flow for your gates. Additionally, relays and timers optimise gate operation, managing cycles for better efficiency.

To upgrade your electric gates, or for accessories for maintaining and controlling them, explore our range at Gates Gates. We stock high quality electric gates, including swing gate kits, sliding gate kits, and garage door kits, to suit residential and commercial property. Additionally, we offer electric gate accessories and controls to make maintaining and operating your gates even easier, including key switches, electric gate lights, battery backups and cables.

All of our electric gate kits and accessories are designed to provide safe, efficient access to your property, with durability you can rely on. If you need any assistance or have any questions regarding any of our products, contact our team, and we will be happy to help. Visit our website today to browse our full range of electric gates and accessories and upgrade your gate system.

Electric gates are designed to make life easier and safer, but there are still many questions around how secure they really are. Some people worry about accidents, especially with children or pets nearby. Others aren’t sure what happens if the power goes out or the gate gets stuck. Let’s look at some common concerns and separate the myths from the facts.

Fact: Modern electric gates include built-in safety features that reduce risk. Most gate kits use obstacle detection sensors. These sensors stop or reverse the gate if anything blocks its path. This helps protect children, pets, cars, or anything else that might be in the way.

Many systems also have soft start and stop features. This slows the gate at the beginning and end of its movement, reducing the chance of harm. When fitted and used correctly, these systems are very safe for homes with young children or animals.

Fact: Electric gates have manual release systems. If there is a power cut, you can unlock the gate using a key or lever from the inside. This allows you to open it by hand.

The manual release system is a standard part of most safe gate systems. In some setups, battery backups are also an option. These keep the gate working during short outages, which can be useful in bad weather.

Fact: Like any moving device, automatic gates need to be checked now and then. Sensors can get dirty, motors wear out, and parts may shift over time. Simple checks, like making sure the gate stops when it should and cleaning sensors, go a long way.

Most domestic users don’t need full service plans, but a yearly check is a good idea. This keeps the system working smoothly and safely.

Fact: Not all gate kits offer the same level of safety. Some cheaper options may be missing key features like obstacle detection or safe stopping zones. Others might not meet UK safety standards.

When choosing a gate kit, it’s important to look for systems that include safety edges, encoder technology, or integrated sensors. At Gates Gates, we only stock kits from trusted brands that meet current safety regulations.

Fact: Most electric gate systems come with remote stop functions. If you press the button again during movement, the gate stops immediately. Some keypads and intercoms also include stop functions.

In addition, sensors along the path of the gate can detect movement or objects and send a signal to stop or reverse. This reduces risk and gives you more control.

Fact: Obstacle detection and soft-stop features don’t make your gate slow. In most cases, you won’t notice a big difference in speed. These features add protection without affecting day-to-day use.

A well-installed gate should open and close smoothly, with just a short delay at each end to keep things safe.

Features That Improve Electric Gate Safety

• Photocells: Infrared beams that detect movement between posts or across a gate’s path.
• Safety edges: Pressure-sensitive strips that stop the gate if touched.
• Manual release: Lets you open the gate during power cuts.
• Limit switches: Control how far the gate moves, preventing it from over-travelling.
• Encoder systems: Monitor gate movement and stop it if resistance is detected.