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Do you have a limited space in your driveway? If yes, then sliding gates for driveways are the perfect alternative for protection and security!
Driveway entry gates welcome visitors to your lovely abode. It sets the atmosphere of the overall aesthetics of your house. And since it is the first thing guests see, you must install the perfect gate.
Choosing Sliding Gate Over Swing Gate
You only have two options for driveway gates: either you opt for a sliding gate or a swinging gate. While swing gates are more versatile in style since you can have a single leaf or double swing gate, they require a huge space that some driveways don’t have.
You can install a sliding driveway gate when you don’t have the luxury of space to accommodate a swinging gate. Sliding gates for driveways are also chosen when something is blocking the area where the entry gate is installed.
Sliding gates move along the ground track and into the fence line. This saves up space since it does not swing open. Another reason many people prefer sliding gates is that they do not sag. Thanks to the floor track where it can move freely and easily.
Properties with sloping grounds also use sliding gates. Sloped grounds hinder the opening and closing of swinging gates so much so that they cannot function properly. The idea of using sliding gates that move across the fencing system is the most viable option to provide security and protection to these properties.
Restrictions of Sliding Gates
While sliding gates are great options in some situations, they do not come without limitations. Floor track installation requires money and maintenance. Sometimes, installing these tracks on the property may also not be feasible.
The presence of moving gate hardware in sliding gates also makes them noisier than swinging gates. If the gate is near offices or bedrooms, it gets loud and distracting.
Another problem is that stones and other debris can get stuck on the track, affecting the gate’s mobility. If left unattended, these tiny things prevent the gate from functioning properly.
Traditional Sliding Gate vs Cantilever Gate
Traditional sliding gates and cantilever gates may look and function the same. However, these gates have a major difference in their mechanism.
A typical sliding gate moves sideways along a track through wheels attached to the bottom part of the gate. A cantilever gate also moves in the same direction but not through a track.
Cantilever gates operate in a trackless gate system using rollers tucked behind the fence. These rollers open and close the gate while being suspended above.
Sliding Gates for Driveways: Aesthetics and Materials
Of course, the look of sliding gates for driveways should be considered as much as their function. Homeowners and business owners alike want a gate that exudes a pleasing personality to visitors.
Aesthetics further enhance the property's marketability and can increase its value when selling.
There is a single or bi-parting gate available for sliding styles. A single sliding gate means that there is only one piece of gate that moves sideways.
On the other hand, bi-parting sliding gates are made in such a way that they part in the middle. One side of the gate moves along the fence line on the right, while the other moves along the left.
Sliding gates can be constructed using different materials. You can have a custom gate depending on your desired design and the materials you are most comfortable with. The most common choices of people installing a custom driveway gate are the following:
- Stainless steel gates
- Wrought iron gates
- Aluminum gates
- Wood gates
How Do Automatic Sliding Gates Work?
Modernizing the gate system has become a trend. Incorporating gate automation increases security and protection. That is why several people want to have an automatic gate.
But how do automatic gates work?
Automatic sliding gates make things more convenient for drivers since they do not need to manually operate the door. They can simply stay inside their cars and let the gate operator do its thing.
Automation uses an access control system. The system is composed of the following:
- Access control panel. Software that stores and verifies information of the user. It receives the credentials and signals the gate opener to open.
- Gate opener. It is the one that opens the gate. Sliding openers are different from swing openers since both have different mechanisms of operation.
- Access reader. The reader scans and receives the information from the access credential. It would then transmit the data it received to the control panel for verification.
- Access credentials. Credentials can be anything from keypads to remote controls, smart applications to biometrics, and vehicle tags to IDs, among many others. A credential is an item used by a person to enter the premises. It is like a code that sends a signal to the gate opener to allow entry.
- Gate lock. Gate locks for automatic gates do not open unless told otherwise by the control panel. It keeps the gate closed and tightens security.
Is an Automated Gate Worth It?
Having an automatic driveway gate is a personal choice. Some people may consider it worthy, while some don’t. Before you splurge on automation, make sure that it suits your lifestyle as well as your budget.
Electric gates also require maintenance and gate repair. But, as far as security is concerned, it boosts protection and safety levels. Just choose the right gate system that you are comfortable with. Since different access control systems have different access credentials and gate operators, knowing which is right for your needs makes the selection easier.
Sliding Gates for Driveways
A pretty driveway has always been a show stealer. No one can deny that stunning driveways impact the house's overall appeal. Taking time to decide on which gate to have in your driveway is worth it.
Sliding gates for driveways have a certain modern charm that swing gates cannot replicate. If you need help with the sliding gate installation and require openers and operators, feel free to contact us at All Security Equipment!
