Electric gates offer an excellent combination of security, convenience, and style, making them the go-to choice for residential and commercial properties alike. Famously though, they’re not one-size-fits-all, and there are all sorts of factors that determine which choice of automated gate is the best for your property. If you’re thinking of buying and installing one for 2025, there are a couple of key decisions you first need to make to ensure you’re choosing the right gates for your specific needs.
Below, we cover some of the most important aspects to bear in mind before making your decision!
The requirements of your site
One of the first steps in the process is evaluating the specific needs of your site, and mapping out the installation requirements. For example, is there enough room for the gates to open and close without obstruction? This will play a major factor in deciding what type of gates you need, right off the bat. Sliding gates, for instance, need lateral space, whereas swing gates require a larger opening arc.
You’ll want to think about the power supply, or ask an expert to assess it for you. Electric gates require a reliable electrical connection, which may involve running cables from your property to the gate’s motor. Again, factors like uneven ground or slopes can impact how easy this is, which in turn affects the type of gate mechanism you choose. They’re not the kind of assessments you can generally do right off the bat, but they can you avoid unnecessary delays or added costs during installation.
The aesthetics of the gate design
Electric gates are a functional investment, but they also contribute significantly to the overall appearance of your property – that’s a big reason why choosing the right design is crucial to maintaining or enhancing your property’s aesthetics.
For starters, you’ll want to consider the architectural style of your home or premises. A modern property might suit sleek aluminium gates with clean lines, while a traditional property could be complemented by ornate wrought iron or classic timber designs. Colour and finish also play a role; neutral tones like black or grey are timeless, while custom colours can add a highly distinctive touch.
If you’re buying them for your personal home, you can match them to whatever style you please. If you’re buying them for business premises on the other hand, it might be worth thinking about what kind of impression different styles might give to visitors, and whether that matches up with the kind of first impression you want to give.
Access control options
Now we come to the more nitty-gritty of the practicalities. How will you and others access the gates? Choosing the right access control system is critical for convenience and security. There are several options available, each with its advantages.
Keypads are a popular choice for properties that require shared access, as they allow multiple users to enter a code for entry. Remote controls offer a convenient solution for individual users, especially in residential settings. For properties with frequent visitors on the other hand, intercom systems with video functionality provide the added benefit of visual verification. Some systems can even be integrated with smartphones, enabling remote control and monitoring from anywhere.
How many cycles will your gates go through?
Not all gates are built to handle the same workload. Before choosing your electric gates, you’ll need to know roughly how often they’ll be opened and closed on a typical day. A “cycle” is a technical term that refers to a full movement of the gate from a closed position to a fully open position, and then back to a closed position.
Residential properties with minimal traffic might only require gates designed for light use. In contrast, commercial premises or properties with high traffic will need heavy-duty gates capable of handling frequent cycles without strain. The durability of the motor and mechanism is a key consideration here, as overworking a system beyond its intended capacity can lead to wear and tear, costly repairs, or premature replacement. (If you’re not sure at all, feel free to ask one of our experts at North Valley Forge, and we’ll always be happy to help!)
How to maintain safety for everyone
Safety is always a top priority when installing electric gates, especially for properties used by families, businesses, or public organisations. Now, we should start by saying that there are multiple safety systems installed with electric gates as standard. These include safety edges, which are designed to detect obstructions and prevent the gates from closing on cars, people, or pets.
To give you an idea of the sensitivity of these edges, they’re designed to detect the slightest of impacts – in theory, even pressing on one with your thumb will be enough for the gate to register an obstruction, and return the gate to its previous position. (However, we strongly advise against trying this yourself!) Equally, emergency stop buttons or manual release mechanisms are frequently installed, often for scenarios like power outages or mechanical failures.
Even with all this though, it’s still important to educate everyone on the dangers. “Everyone” here meaning anyone who may be in regular contact with your gates – if they’re residential, that might include your family members, close friends, or regular visitors. For companies on the other hand, you may even want to have a full staff meeting, so that you can be confident you’re doing your due diligence.
It can help to think about who will be using the gates most frequently. Are there children, elderly individuals, or pets to consider? Identifying potential risks and incorporating safety measures into the design will ensure the gates provide peace of mind.
At North Valley Forge, we understand that planning and designing your dream gates or railings is an exciting process. Whether you’re looking to enhance your home’s kerb appeal, increase security, or add a touch of elegance to your property, the possibilities are endless with our bespoke range of electric gates. We’re always happy to help you bring your vision to life. To discuss your project or get in touch with one of our experts, just give us a call on 01282 677300 or send us an email at sales@northvalleyforge.co.uk.