Electric driveway gates are now a more common sight than ever all over the UK, in homes and businesses alike – and there’s little wondering as to why! Automatic gates strike the perfect balance between security, convenience, and style, and they’re versatile enough to fit into a wide variety of settings and environments, from sloping residential drives to sprawling commercial parking areas.
They present a huge range of benefits for homeowners and businesses alike, and with decades of in-house expertise at our disposal here at North Valley Forge, we know these advantages inside-out. Here are just five of the biggest ones!
1. Maximise security and peace of mind
One of the most significant benefits of electric gates is the enhanced security they provide. Electric gates are typically fitted with automatic locking mechanisms, preventing them from being activated or moved by anyone who’s not been explicitly authorised to do so. This ensures that only people with the correct access codes, remote controls, or authorised entry methods can open the gate.
What’s more, many systems can also be integrated with security cameras and intercom systems, further boosting the security of the property by enabling residents or property managers to see and communicate with visitors before granting access.
Not only do gates represent an imposing physical barrier in themselves, but also their sheer size typically deters the vast majority of potential intruders, many of whom tend to be opportunists rather than determined thieves. This level of protection is especially appealing for commercial properties, where safeguarding valuable assets is often a top priority.
2. Increased convenience
Gone are the days of stepping out of your car in the rain or cold to manually open a gate. One of the top reasons many people choose electric gates is the sheer convenience they offer. With the simple press of a button on a remote, smartphone app, or keypad, you can open and close the gate without ever having to leave the comfort of your car.
Many systems also feature automatic closing after a set period, so you never have to worry about accidentally leaving the gate open. What’s more, if you often have guests or deliveries, electric gates with intercom systems enable you to easily provide temporary access to whoever you need to, generally without raising the risks of any long-term security implications.
This functionality extends to integrated smart home systems as well, where electric gates can be controlled remotely from anywhere in the world, providing peace of mind whether you’re at home or away.
3. Boosted property value
As we’ve covered elsewhere in more detail on our blog, if you’re a homeowner rather than a business owner, electric gates on your property can significantly increase its market value. It’s a near-universal rule that buyers are often willing to pay a premium for added security, convenience, and luxury. Electric gates provide all of these benefits in one straightforward package, so you can easily see why that is often a key selling point.
In addition to increased value, electric gates can also enhance a property’s curb appeal. A well-designed gate adds a sense of grandeur and elegance, and can also complement the overall architecture of your home. Whether you prefer sleek, modern designs or traditional wrought iron gates, the visual impact of an electric gate can be transformative, creating a lasting first impression for visitors and potential buyers alike.
4. Improved privacy
Again, this is a benefit that’s typically most keenly enjoyed by homeowners, especially so for anyone with large gardens, long driveways, or homes located in busy urban areas. However, that’s not to say it’s not beneficial to some business owners, too. In short, for anyone who values their privacy, electric gates are an ideal solution.
If you’d like, we can fit our electric gates with solid panels or designs that limit visibility from the outside, preventing passers-by from peering into your property. For homeowners, it can be annoying, stressful and sometimes a bit intimidating. For business owners on the other hand, it can be equally concerning, but in a slightly different way, as it raises the possibility that a select few passers-by are trying to work out if there’s anything of particular value on your premises, and therefore whether it’s worth attempting to gain entry.
Thankfully, electric gates prevent that – it puts you in complete control of access, which means you can enjoy your space without worrying about prying eyes or unexpected interruptions.
5. Customisable design options
Electric gates come in a wide variety of styles, materials, and finishes, allowing you to choose a design that perfectly matches your property’s aesthetic. Whether you prefer a classic wrought iron look or a more contemporary aluminium finish, there is an option to suit every taste. As we’ve covered elsewhere, we have a long history of providing bespoke gates to private and commercial customers alike here at North Valley Forge, and there’s almost nothing we can’t do.
The customisation doesn’t stop at appearance either. We can offer options for swing or sliding mechanisms, depending on the layout and space available on your property. Additionally, you can choose between a range of access options, from keypads and remote controls to smart technology integrations that allow for remote operation.
Those are just a few of the most universal advantages of electric gates – you may well be able to discover (and enjoy) even more, specific to your home or business! And if you’re thinking of sizing up your space for a set of electric gates, you’re in exactly the right place. We have decades of experience at our disposal here at North Valley Forge, and can take care of every stage of the process – encompassing the design, supply and installation.
Feel free to explore our site to see which options appeal – and of course, if you ever need any help or advice, you can always get in touch with our team on 01282 677 300. We’re here to help!