What You Should Know About Gates

If you are a homeowner with a driveway and are looking for a little more security, you may consider installing a gate. A gate company will have several different types and designs on the market. You should take the time to do the research to see if installing one of these makes sense. Here are some things you should know.

Different Types

There are a few different types of gates from which you could choose. The more common types are the swinging version and the sliding version. There are also retractable sliding ones and the more rare overhead type. Sliding gates do not have any dead zones as the swinging models do. When swinging open (or closed), the safety features cannot cover the entire area and could wind up closing (or opening) and hitting a vehicle or someone who has attempted to pass through.

Different Materials

Just as there are choices in types of gates, there are choices in the materials from which they are made. There are wooden ones, the strongest being those made of Redwood. Vinyl and wrought iron gates are also available, but for overall strength and durability, nothing beats a steel gate. Stainless steel is also an option but is more expensive.

Installation

If you are thinking about installing one of these, consider the time that it will take. New gate installation is a time-consuming major project that could take up to a week to complete. If it will be a brand new installation, you may have to have a power source installed as well. You will need power to open and close the door. Depending on your driveway and yard, there may be some digging involved as well. All of these things will take time.

Safety and Security

Almost all gates have some sort of safety sensor that is built in to the system. When a door closes, for example, and a vehicle attempts to pass through, the car or truck could be picked up by the sliding gate safety sensor and the automatic reversal process begins. As for security, your new addition will add another layer to entering your property. This will add an element of privacy and increase your home’s security.