While only 17% of homes in the US have a security system, every home has a secure entrance system whether a locking gate or a deadbolt on the door. Having a secure home gives people peace of mind against intruder and burglars. One of the best ways to ensure that no one gets on your property without your say-so is to have an automatic gate system.
Before you run out and install a gate, you need to learn about the different types of gates so that you can choose the perfect one for your home. Here are the main categories of features to look for.
Which Automatic Gate System Is Right For You?
Slide Gates
The description of a slide gate is pretty much in the name. They can be installed in just about any kind of terrain and require a track to set up. You need to have a space that is wide enough to accommodate the gates moving laterally as they’re opened.
A slide gate usually entails two gates that are opened at the center and move along a track in order to let you into the home. Other slide gates can latch at one point as the entire gate slides laterally away from the latch point to open.
These gates can be installed on driveways, along fences, at the perimeter of your property or close to the entrance to your house.
Swing Gates
A swinging automatic gate system will be attached to hinges on either side of your driveway or entrance to your estate. When opened, the gates can be made to swing out toward the entrance or inward, toward your property. The best idea is to make them swing toward your property so they don’t hit the entering vehicle and aren’t struck by oncoming traffic.
Swing gates come in single or double gates, depending on the width of your driveway. Single gates are adequate for your standard sedan-width driveway, however, double gates lend an air of opulence to your driveway.
If you have a driveway that’s on a steep grade, they will typically open toward the downward slope. Be aware of this standard if you have to climb a hill toward your property and would prefer not to have that look. You might prefer a slide gate in that instance.
Automatic Gates With Keypad Entry
Without an automatic opening mechanism, you may have to leave your vehicle just to open your gate. Automatic gates allow you the convenience of hanging an interface that’s accessible through your window in order to get them open. One of the most popular types of gate entry systems is a system with keypad entry.
With any keypad system, you can set your own private code in order to gain access. The system will keep anyone from opening your gate without the password. This is a highly preferred system because it allows you to get access to your home and property without needing to carry a key or a card.
If you have guests visiting, you can give them the keycode to enter. You can know that they’ll have no problem making themselves at home when you can’t be there to swap physical keys with them.
Card-Based Entry Systems
A keycard automatic gate system is popular because they keep you from having to memorize a code but give you a lighter key than your standard metal one. Card entry systems require just a swipe to get you onto the property.
There’s something undoubtedly cool about being able to swipe a card to open the gate to your home. They lend a cool aesthetic appeal that makes your home seem extra modern.
You can have as many cards as you want to be printed and handed out to anyone who you want to have access to your property. It’s simpler and faster than entering a code while being just as secure.
If you’re looking for a fun and modern entry system, cards are the way to go. Now all that’s left is to decide what kind of material you want your gate to built out of.
Wrought Iron Gates
Your choice of material only depends on the style of home that you want to have. Your gate is sure to be secure and sturdy no matter what material you choose.
Wrought iron gates lend a classic type of look to a modern security gate. Wrought iron is a strong material that won’t need to be repainted very often. It doesn’t break down or corrode the way other metals do.
Wrought iron gates are strong and secure but often leave a little bit of space between the bars. If security is more important than intense privacy, there are many lovely styles available in wrought iron.
Wooden Gates
Modern wooden gates provide a secure way of keeping intruders out while allowing you a lot of aesthetic flexibility. You can build a facade that’s rustic and vintage over a modern metal frame that secures just like any other automatic gate. You can build something that looks more high-end and contemporary out of wood as well.
The planks that you use can be of any material and spaced out however you please. A tightly ordered set of planks will provide you with lots of property and keep the line of visibility from the street to a minimum. A wooden gate can be made to match any type of fence you already have built around your property.
An Automatic Gate System To Suit Your Needs
Talk to your fencing provider and see what kind of automatic gate material they would recommend. An automatic gate system should feel both secure and comfortable, looking like a welcoming home to anyone with the keycode. There are plenty of options and a professional installer can help you decide which is right for your situation.
If you want to know what types of automatic gates are available in your region, check out what we have to offer.