When you first make up your mind to install an automatic gate, you may feel like you’re delving into a world of cryptic and esoteric lingo that all sounds like something out of The DaVinci Code.
This article includes the following types:
- Slide Gates
- Swing Gates
- Barrier Gates
So now that we’ve introduced you to the general gate, be on the lookout for some ‘toppings’, so to speak. The ‘toppings’, in this case, are that there are different gate types in each category. For example, you’ll find that there is more than one type of slide gate.
Automated Slide Gates
As its name implies, a slide gate either slides on wheels from left to right or right to left, not unlike many department store automatic doors.
In order to accommodate a slide gate, on either the right or left of the gate, you must have space that is at least equal to the width of your driveway, and then some. If you don’t have enough room to fit the gate on either side of your driveway when it’s open, then a slide gate isn’t likely the best option for you.
Okay, now on to the different types of slide gates:
- ‘V’-track;
- Rear Pipe Track;
- Cantilever
‘V’-track Slide Gates
‘V’-track gates are the most common type of slide gate and are quite reliable. They are, however, not a good option in areas where there will be a lot of snow or ice buildup, as the ‘V’-track needs to be kept clear of debris.
Rear Pipe Track Slide Gates
A rear pipe track is common on lower end chain link gates. Just like the ‘V’-track option, the rear pipe option also need to be 3’ wider than the opening.
On the tail end of the gate there are two wheels mounted that sit on pipes which are mounted to fence panels. On the front end of the gate there is usually a wheel carriage assembly that consists of one rubber wheel and one ‘V’-track wheel.
Cantilever Slide Gates
If the gate is going to be installed somewhere where there is a lot of snow or ice, a cantilever gate is preferable. Cantilever gates do not have any wheels on the ground, and therefore slide over the driveway without being bothered by debris on the driveway.
The wheels, instead, are on a vertical post on one side of the gate – the gate then fits in between those wheels, like cheese in between two pieces of bread. The wheels on the post pull or push the gate to open or close it.
There are a few different types of cantilever gates:
- Full cantilever gates
- Top hang cantilever gates
- Bottom track cantilever gates
Swing Gates
Swing gates swing open like the door to your bedroom or bathroom might, simply opening inward or outward.
Oh, and keep in mind that an outward swinging gate must be set back from a street or sidewalk enough so as not to bap a passerby or car in the ‘face’ when it opens.
There are two main types of swing gates:
- single swing gates
- and double swing gates
Single swing gates open like your bedroom door might while double swing gates open like French Doors would.
Double swing gates are more aesthetically appealing, and allow for smaller gate leaves which don’t allows the gate opener to take a break and not work as hard to open and close the gate as it would for a single swing gate.
You live on a hill so that your driveway has a slope? Uphill swing gates may be required in some applications.
Barrier Gates
Barrier gate operators are what you see in parking garages, at toll booths, and at other traffic control areas. Assume sticking your left arm straight out at your side at shoulder-height, and then when somebody wants to walk to your left, you lift your arm up so that your fingers point toward the sky and let them pass, then lower your arm back to your side to stop the next person from passing.
Barrier gates’ prime focus is vehicle or traffic control.
Automatic Gate Opener – Automated-Miami