The gates to your home are a lot like your front door – they make a statement about you while providing that all important kerbside appeal.  Besides the aesthetics of having a gate to your home there is also the security aspect to consider, with an automated gate providing the peace of mind that a manually operated one cannot.  The two primary types of gates installed in private homes include sliding and swinging gates.  Sliding gates are useful when there is slope to a property, which would preclude the use of a swinging gate.

How Does An Automated Gate Work?

Automated gates work with the aid of a motor, which either drives a gate along steel runners – termed a sliding gate; or enables a gate to articulate on a hinge – termed a swinging gate. The motor is typically wired into the mains power, or it can run off a battery – a system that is proving popular when combined with a solar charging system. A wireless transmitter or controller allows the user to activate the motor when desired, with automatic close and safety features all standard.  Some system can also be activated by a touch or swipe card system, which is suitable for properties with multiple users.

What Is Trending In Gates?

Magnetic Automation has a worldwide presence and besides security gates also manufactures barriers, turnstiles, parking systems and pedestrian access control technologies.  While much of their activity is in the commercial sector they have noted the following trends in the domestic sector of the market, including:

• Gates with energy saving features switches off the entire system when the remote is not in use

• Solar panels to power gates are proving popular resulting in greater cost savings and energy efficiency for the client

• Customers are specifying swing gates to add opulence to their homes