Electric sliding gate kits are used in both residential and commercial settings, combining security, convenience, and reliability. Whilst they are designed to function year-round without any issues, proper maintenance is vital to ensure they continue to operate safely and smoothly. Carrying out regular maintenance of sliding gate kits can avoid unexpected breakdowns, ensure the gate glides smoothly, and keep a high level of security.

There are a number of key maintenance tasks to follow, including inspecting the gate tracks and electrical connections, and lubricating moving parts, all of which help keep it in optimal condition. We stock a wide range of gate automation kits at Gates Gates, including numerous electric sliding gate options. Next, we will share why electric sliding gate kit maintenance is important and share some key maintenance tips. It is important to stress the importance of having any works inspected by a professional installer; we would not recommend the end-user to touch the electrics in case of electrocution.

Electric sliding gates are a key component of a security system, and it’s vital to keep them maintained to prevent issues. A poorly maintained gate can lead to operational problems, safety risks, and costly repairs. Over time, dust, debris, weather conditions, and general wear and tear can affect the gate tracks, rollers, and motor.

Left unchecked, these issues can cause the gate to glide unevenly, make unusual noises, or even stop working entirely. Regular maintenance can keep the gate functioning effectively and operating smoothly. Here we share more information on why maintenance is important for electric sliding gate kits.

• Prevent Operational Issues: Regular maintenance ensures the sliding gate operates smoothly and without interruption. Inspecting the tracks, rollers, and motor allows you to address minor problems before they become serious. This approach reduces the risk of breakdowns and ensures that the system is functioning efficiently.

• Extend Lifespan: Proper care protects a gate kit by reducing wear and tear on critical components. Lubricating moving parts, keeping tracks clean, and checking electrical connections helps prevent premature damage. Regular upkeep ensures the gate remains reliable and effective for many years.

• Ensure Safety: Electric sliding gates are also very heavy and powerful, so safety has to be a priority. Misaligned tracks or worn components can pose risks to people, pets, and vehicles. Routine inspections make sure that safety features such as sensors and auto-stop mechanisms are working correctly, maintaining a secure environment.

Maintaining an electric sliding gate kit is key to keeping it functioning safely, reliably, and efficiently. Regular care reduces wear, prevents unexpected breakdowns, and ensures all safety features remain operational. Following a few simple routines can prolong the life of your gate and enjoy smooth, hassle-free operation every time. Below we share five essential maintenance tips of electric sliding gate kits:

The track is central to smooth gate movement, and debris or uneven surfaces can cause operational issues. Regularly check for any leaves, stones, and dirt, and remove any obstructions immediately. Ensuring the track is clean and level reduces strain on the rollers and motor, prevents noise, and keeps the gate gliding effortlessly. Regular inspections also help to spot early signs of damage, such as cracks or misalignment, before they worsen and require expensive repairs.

Lubrication reduces friction, minimises wear, and keeps the gate operating quietly. Apply a silicone-based lubricant to the rollers, bearings, and hinges every few months, avoiding oil-based products that attract dirt and grime. Proper lubrication ensures the moving components work efficiently, extends their lifespan, and prevents unnecessary strain on the motor. Consistent lubrication also helps maintain smooth gate movement, reducing the risk of sudden jams or uneven operation.

The motor powers the gate, making it crucial that it is inspected regularly. Look for loose wiring, signs of corrosion, or water ingress, and ensure the motor is securely mounted. Maintaining electrical connections prevents any unexpected failures, protects the motor from damage, and ensures the system operates smoothly and safely. Regular checks can also identify minor electrical issues early, helping to avoid expensive repairs and maintaining reliable operation.

Modern sliding gates include safety mechanisms such as photocells, auto-stop sensors, and emergency releases. Testing these features regularly can ensure that they respond correctly to obstructions, and confirm that emergency release mechanisms function properly. Regular testing protects users, prevents accidents, and ensures compliance with safety standards. Keeping these safety features operational also reassures property owners that the gate is reliable and safe for their children, pets, and vehicles.

Electric gates may also shift slightly over time, due to either usage or environmental conditions, which can affect alignment. It’s vital to check the rollers and overall alignment on a regular basis to prevent uneven movement or catching on the track. Correcting misalignment promptly prevents excessive wear on components, reduces stress on the motor, and keeps the gate running efficiently for longer. Regular alignment checks can also help to identify potentially worn rollers or mounting issues before they lead to more serious operational problems.

At Gates Gates, we offer a comprehensive range of high-quality electric sliding gate kits from leading manufacturers to automate existing gates. Choose from fully electric sliding gate kit options, available in both single and twin configurations. We also offer electric gate access systems, controls, and accessories to ensure you have everything needed to keep your gates functioning smoothly. Visit our website today to explore our range and take the first step towards a safer, smarter entrance to your property with our electric sliding gate kits.

Electric gates are a great way to add security and convenience to your property. But one of the most common questions people ask is what happens when the power goes out. Do electric gates still work during a power cut? And if not, how do you get in or out?

Let’s look at what you need to know about electric gates during a power cut, how manual release systems work, and when a gate battery backup might be worth considering.

In most cases, no. Standard electric gate systems rely on mains electricity to power the motor. When the power goes off, the gate will not open or close using the remote, keypad, or intercom system.

This can be an issue during storms, planned maintenance, or in rural areas where outages are more common. However, all properly installed electric gate systems come with a solution: the manual release system.

A manual release allows you to open the gate by hand if the motor stops working due to a power cut or fault. It’s a built-in failsafe that gives you access even when the automation system is offline.

The release is usually operated using a key or lever, which unlocks the motor and lets the gate swing or slide freely. Each gate type has a slightly different mechanism, but the idea is the same, it cuts the motor’s hold so you can move the gate manually.

Things to know:

Fitting electric gates on a flat surface is fairly straightforward. But when your driveway is on a slope, there are a few extra things to think about. Uneven ground changes how the gates open, where the motors go, and what type of system will actually work. If these factors aren’t accounted for, the gate can end up dragging on the ground, putting pressure on the motor, or not opening at all.

Here’s what to know before installing electric gates for a sloped driveway, including the challenges to expect and the options that tend to work best.

Slopes change the way a gate moves. With swing gates in particular, the gate leaf swings in an arc, which means the bottom of the gate may hit the rising ground unless there’s enough clearance. Even if it clears when closed, it could catch or drag when opening.
This puts strain on the motor and increases the risk of damage to the hinges, arms, and ground surface.

Sliding gates can also be tricky. The track must be completely level. If the slope runs across the driveway rather than up or down it, that can create alignment issues and may require extra groundwork.

Before buying a gate kit or calling in an installer, check the following:

● Direction of slope – Is it sloping up or down from the road? Or is it sloped sideways across the driveway?

● How much of a slope is there? – A gentle incline may not need much adjustment. A steeper slope will likely need a custom solution.

● How much space is available? – For swing gates, will they have room to open inwards or outwards without hitting the ground or any walls?

● Can the area be levelled? – Small adjustments to the surface might remove the issue altogether. In other cases, gates can be hung at an angle to follow the slope.

One of the most common solutions for swing gates on sloped drives is rising hinges. These allow the gate to lift slightly as it opens, following the gradient of the driveway. It’s a simple way to avoid the gate scraping the ground.

However, rising hinges do have limits. They can only lift the gate by a certain amount, so they’re better for shallow slopes. You’ll also need a compatible motor system that can handle the angled movement.

Surface-mounted motors usually work best in this case, mounted higher up the post to match the pivot of the rising hinge.

For many sloped drives, sliding gates are the better long-term solution. They avoid the issue of the gate leaf swinging into the slope entirely. Instead, the gate slides sideways across the driveway entrance.

This only works if you have space for the gate to slide fully open. And, the track must be installed on a level path, which may mean creating a concrete base or support beam that cuts into the slope slightly. If the gradient runs side to side, the installer will likely need to dig into the slope to create a level run for the gate.

Tracked sliding gates need regular cleaning, especially in sloped areas where debris or water collects. For more exposed sites, cantilever gates are also an option. These hang above the ground and don’t need a track, which avoids many common slope issues entirely.

If there’s no room for a gate to swing inwards due to the slope, another option is to have it open outwards. This avoids the uphill arc and can work well for short driveways.

However, you must check that the gate does not obstruct public footpaths or roads when open. Local planning rules often prevent gates from opening out into public space. If the layout allows it, and the swing stays inside your boundary, it can be a workable option.

In some cases, having two leaves of uneven height or using offset hinges can help gates clear the slope. For example, one side of the driveway may have a steeper incline than the other. A split design lets each leaf move on its own pivot point, adjusted to match the angle of the ground.

This kind of custom install needs careful planning and usually professional input. But it can solve tricky space or gradient problems without needing to replace or level the whole drive.

Not all electric gate kits are suited to sloped surfaces. The extra pressure placed on the arms or rollers by uneven ground means you’ll need a stronger motor with adjustable settings.

For swing gates with rising hinges, use a kit with programmable slow start/stop and enough torque to handle angled movement. For sliding gates, make sure the motor is suitable for the total length and weight of the gate, especially if extra framing is added to deal with the slope.

Always check motor brackets and fixings, if the ground isn’t flat, the mounting positions may need to be adapted to hold the system level.

Sloped drives often collect water at the lowest point. Make sure your gate motors, especially underground kits, aren’t sitting in areas where water pools. Water ingress is one of the most common reasons motors fail. If the slope directs water towards the motor housing or track, drainage should be added during installation.

Installing electric gates on a sloped driveway is definitely possible, but it takes a bit more planning than a flat install. The type of slope, the available space, and the gate style all influence which setup will work best.

Sliding gates are often the most practical choice, especially on steep gradients or drives that slope sideways. But swing gates can still work well using rising hinges, custom posts, or adjusted pivot points, as long as the angle isn’t too severe.

Before you choose a gate kit, take time to measure the slope and think through how the gate will open. And if in doubt, get in touch. We can advise on whether a retrofit is suitable or whether a purpose-built setup will give a better long-term result.

Manual gates have long been used for their practicality and ease of operation, but more property owners are now choosing to modernise them with electric gate upgrades. By installing an automation kit, a manual gate can be transformed into a smooth, efficient, and secure access system. Not only does this make gates easier to use daily, but it also adds value to a property, increases convenience, and enhances overall security. 

At Gates Gates, we supply a wide range of high-quality gate automation kits designed to make the process of upgrading straightforward. In this post, we will highlight the benefits of upgrading manual gates, outline key considerations when choosing an automation kit, and explore the installation process in greater detail.

Upgrading manual gates with an automation kit offers a range of benefits that extend beyond mere convenience. From enhanced security to increased property value, electric gate systems provide practical benefits for both residential and commercial properties. Below, we explore five key reasons why upgrading manual gates with modern automation kits can make such a difference:

 

Improved Convenience

Gate automation ensures a controlled and efficient method of managing access, making it more convenient and secure. Manual handling is completely replaced with remote operation through keypads, transmitters, or smartphone apps, delivering a seamless entry and exit process. This functionality is particularly beneficial during adverse weather conditions or when operating gates after dark. For commercial properties, automation supports smooth traffic flow by allowing authorised staff and visitors to enter without delay, reducing the need for on-site personnel involvement.

Automated gate systems significantly strengthen the security around a property. By restricting access to authorised users only, they minimise the risk of intruders and unwanted visitors gaining entry. When integrated with complementary features such as intercoms, CCTV, or coded keypads, these systems create a comprehensive security solution. In addition to offering practical ways to enhance security, automated gates also act as a visible deterrent, reinforcing safety for residential properties and enabling tighter access control for commercial premises.

The addition of a professional gate automation system represents an upgrade that can positively impact the property's value. Buyers are often drawn to homes and commercial premises that combine security, ease of operation, and visual appeal. Automated gates create a lasting impression of sophistication and quality, contributing to a property’s marketability. This balance of functional benefit and aesthetic enhancement ensures automation remains a sound long-term investment.

Automated gate systems are designed to integrate seamlessly with existing gate designs, enhancing their appearance while preserving the original structural style. Compact motors and discreet control units maintain a clean visual finish without compromising performance. By elevating both function and form, automated gates contribute to kerb appeal for residential properties and project professionalism for commercial entrances. The result is a refined, modern impression that reflects well on the entire property.

The installation of an automation kit also contributes to the extended lifespan of gate structures. Smooth and consistent operation reduces strain on hinges, rollers, and other components, limiting wear and lowering maintenance requirements. Designed to withstand frequent use, high-quality systems perform reliably in both residential and commercial environments. This focus on durability ensures property owners benefit from a long-term solution that maintains operational efficiency and structural integrity over time.

When selecting a gate automation kit, it is crucial to carefully choose the right system for a specific type of gate and property layout. Not every kit will suit every situation, so ensuring compatibility and functionality is essential. By taking the following considerations into account, you can make a more informed decision and avoid costly mistakes.

• Gate Type and Size: The first step is to match the automation kit to the gate style. Swing gates and sliding gates require different motor systems, and the size and weight of the gate must also be taken into account. Choosing a motor that is too weak can cause strain and shorten the system’s lifespan, while over-specifying can result in unnecessary expense.

• Power Supply and Usage Levels: Consider how often your gates will be used and whether you have a suitable power supply available. Residential gates that open only a few times a day will require a different system than commercial entrances with heavy daily traffic. Some kits can operate on low voltage, while others require a mains connection or a backup battery for reliability.

• Additional Features and Controls: Modern automation kits often come with additional features such as remote access, smart app integration, or compatibility with intercoms and keypads. Deciding which features are essential for your property will help you choose the right system. For example, a homeowner may prefer smartphone control, while a business may require multiple access options for staff and visitors.

Installing a gate automation kit is a straightforward process for most property owners, especially when choosing a system designed with ease of installation in mind. The kit typically includes the motor, control panel, and remote controls, along with clear instructions. While many homeowners or commercial property managers can install their kit themselves, some prefer to use a professional installer for added peace of mind.

The key to success is ensuring that the gate is secure and properly aligned before installing the automation system. Once the motor and control unit are installed, they can be connected to your power source and programmed for smooth operation. Most kits allow for simple setup and adjustment, making it possible to enjoy the benefits of automation without extensive disruption.

To upgrade manual gates into a modern, automated access solution, Gates Gates has a range of high-quality automation kits to choose from. We supply a wide range of high-quality electric gate automation kits designed to suit both swing and sliding gates, whether for residential driveways or commercial entrances. Our range of gate automation kits is competitively priced, and we offer options to suit every budget. With straightforward installation and expert support, upgrading manual gates has never been simpler. Explore our range today on our website and discover the most appropriate automation kit for your property with Gates Gates.