By Greg Bishop
As a homeowner, you have decided to invest in your home security and would like to install an automated gate operating system. There are a number of questions that immediately come to my mind as a gate professional: What should it look like, what brand of operator should I use, etc. However, the first question that you actually need to ask yourself is: Can I even have a gate?
First off, Do I have room to install a sliding gate?
Typically, the space required is the width of the driveway that you want to put the gate on, plus 3 feet. A 16 foot gate would require about 19 feet to slide into when open. Are the driveway and slide area reasonably level? Is there landscaping that needs to be removed?
What about a swinging gate? For swinging gates the driveway should be level under the swing area of the gate. Gates that swing over anything more than a very gentle slope are difficult or impossible to automate. Ground mounted swing gate operators require an additional 2 feet (minimum) to 3 feet of side room from the hinge post. Gate actuators, which mount on the gate and hinge post require 9 inches of side-room.
Driveway length is also important. Can a full-size vehicle park on the driveway without interfering with the operation of the gate and any garage doors?
Another consideration is what to do about pedestrians. Automated gate system manufacturers, as well as governing codes (UL325) all specify that a pedestrian gate be provided. Remember, pedestrians are not permitted to walk through a vehicular gate.
Entry Systems recommends discussing your project with an experienced, licensed gate installation company. As a company with over 45 years experience, we are ready to assist you, please give us a call.
