Choosing The Right Sliding Gate Kit For A Wooden Fence

Adding a sliding gate to your property is a simple way to achieve increased security. If you are looking for optimum protection, automatic gates are the way to go.

Aside from securing your property, automatic driveway gates are convenient, create curb appeal, and often require little to no maintenance. Automation means you can also operate your sliding gate from your vehicle or home.

However, there are a few things you should take into account before replacing your manual gates with an automatic gate opener and kit. For example, the size and configuration of your gate are at the top of the list, as this can affect the choice of your entire gate kit.

Knowing all the significant points to consider before purchasing a sliding gate operator kit can help you save time and cost.

For instance, an electric gate operator kit automates your manual gates and makes your home more secure. But not all versions are suitable for wooden fences, so finding the ideal gate operator might be tricky.

In this article, we will discuss what you need to consider before purchasing a kit for your driveway gates on wood fences.

Top 5 Tips for Choosing a Sliding Gate Kit for Wooden Fences

You need to consider several things before you purchase a sliding fence gate kit. Of course, you want to be able to control who can access your property, but you also want to decide on a system that has low wear and tear and is durable.

If you have any further questions about the tips discussed below, please feel free to contact us for expert advice.

Evaluate the size and weight of your gate

This is a crucial factor to consider when selecting your sliding gate kit. Each kit comes with a different motor, and each motor has a maximum gate size that it can move.

The manufacturer usually specifies this on the package along with the gate design, but we’re happy to help you understand the practical implications of this information when you shop at All Security Equipment.

Size

Although sliding gates feature overhangs, you should always measure the distance the gate needs to travel rather than focusing on the length of the overhang.

Since motor operating widths are determined to the nearest meter, you should always round up the measured width of your gate. For example, if your sliding gate frame opening is 4.5 meters, go for a gate operator capable of moving a five-meter gate.

Weight

Although you often won't see a stated weight limit for a sliding driveway gate kit, manufacturers might sometimes set a weight limit for residential gates. 

As it’s assumed that large commercial gates are exceedingly heavy, they automatically arrive with powerful motors for swift and efficient sliding on guide rollers.

Since you cannot physically weigh each gate leaf, your gate's age can often be used as a reliable indicator of its weight.

Wooden gates and their hardware got heavier over time, while the newer ones are hollow and typically much lighter. 

If your home has sturdy wrought iron or heavy-duty wooden gates, you might need to consider underground kits or hydraulics to operate them.

Type of the Gate

The type of gate can also affect the length of each wing, and hence, the choice of your gate kit.

Different types of gates

There are typically four types of sliding gates available, including:

• Sliding folding gates.
• Telescopic gates.
• Cantilever gates.
• Track sliding gates.

These gates each differ in their operation. For example, track sliding gates move on a rail using rollers or wheels, and require a relatively wide opening to operate. On the other hand, cantilever models run on rails installed at the side of the gate.

Available space

Since motors can take up extra space, measure the exact distance the gate needs to travel and add 350 to 400 millimeters in to ensure that the gate leaf can accommodate the motor. Or else, be prepared to reinstall your gate.

What to Do If You Don’t Have Space for a Sliding Gate

If you’d like to install a sliding gate on your property but don’t have enough space for it to open, telescopic sliding gates are the answer. This type of gate features two sections that stack on top of one another when the gate opens. These two sections then extend again when the gate is closed.

Telescopic gates usually boast great durability and are easy to upgrade if you’re looking for a more modern finish.

Is there any sloping or uneven terrain?

You need to establish whether your entrance slopes from left to right or involves uneven ground or a hill. Operating a sliding gate up or down an incline can be dangerous as it stresses the motor significantly. If the motor fails or the gate detaches, you can suffer damage and people may get injured.

Additionally, you can't use a sliding gate kit on uneven ground, because the gate’s wheels must run along a straight track to function properly and not detach from it.

Consider Cantilever Sliding Gates

A cantilever sliding gate is the ideal alternative if you have landscape features that might get in the way of operating your gate.

If you have an obstruction on the ground that makes it impossible to install rails, this gate style will work well as it features two sets of rollers that are attached to a wall. Compared to gates that need to run on straight tracks, this kind of gate is perfect for uneven ground.

Powering the Gate

Electric gates are powered using either outlets or solar energy.

Solar panels

Although solar panels are receiving more attention globally, if you prefer putting smart devices—like cameras or sensors—on your fence, they are not suitable due to their inconsistent, nominal power supply during the winter and fall months.

A standard safety gate can work up to eight cycles per day in winter and twice that in summer, compared to the fluctuation in the power supply of solar panels, which happens rather frequently.

Electricity

On the other hand, your regular electric supply allows you to upgrade your gates with cameras, intercoms, and other safety features. Simply fix the device onto the gate and connect it to your nearest power switch using a cable wire.

The cost of the driveway gate kit

The price of slide gate kits varies based on the type of gate. Slide gate kits for residential properties are available at lower prices, while the ones for commercial use need to meet exceptionally high requirements and lie on the pricier side.

A common mistake people make is using a low-specification kit to save money. Choosing a kit or sliding gate frame that is not adequate for your gate opening will only result in malfunctions and frequent technician callouts in the future.

We strongly recommend choosing a security gate operator kit with specifications that suit your sliding gate and your needs. Selecting the right sliding kit for a wooden fence can result in more straightforward pre-installation preparations.

And, if you are unsure of the preparations you will need to make before installing your electric fence security gate kit, don't hesitate to consult a qualified team to help you out! All of our security items will pass the security tests with flying colors.

Aesthetics Meet Technology

Did you know that your sliding gate kit for a wooden fence can be completely customized? You can pair your gate with technology like a camera doorbell to see who is at your gate, whether you’re home or not. You may also want to install loop detectors that stop your gate from opening or closing when an object is in its path.

Investing in the Right Sliding Gate Operator Kit

If you have a wood fence and would like to install a gate at your house or business, choosing the right equipment is vital to ensure you can manage access to your property.

If you’re in search of a low-maintenance kit for your gate automation, we can help. Shop our extensive collection on our website for some inspiration—you’ll find many options to choose from.

If you have any questions or need help choosing the right product, our team at All Security Equipment is here to assist you. Contact us today for more information.