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A rolling gate is a type of slide gate that moves sideways parallel to the fence line to open or shut. It has an attached track or wheels to help it move across the fence. Chain-link fences often pair with rolling gates because of their narrow and space-saving profile.
It is also relatively cheaper than cantilever and V-track gates without the extra counterbalancing materials and additional features. Rolling gates are easy to install if you have the right rolling gate hardware.
If you wonder if installation is possible using the rolling gate hardware on your own gate, the answer is yes. You are good to go as long as you have the basic handyman skills to screw and assemble the pieces.
What Is a Rolling Gate?
A rolling gate is a traditional sliding gate that uses wheels to move across the fence line. The gate is of the same size as the opening but often shorter in height to allow the bottom part to accommodate the wheels.
Unlike the cantilever gate, a rolling gate does not need a counterbalance or extra width that extends the gate further. It means that a rolling gate cannot open wider and is ideally suited for tight spaces. It is often favored in small driveways as the gate simply retracts to the side of the gate when opening it.
A rolling gate is easy to use and requires manual effort to track it across the fence. This type of gate is durable and long-lasting since it is not prone to wear and tear. The position of the wheels provides elevation and clearance so that the gate does not have any contact with the ground.
What Is Rolling Gate Hardware?
Rolling gate hardware or sliding gate hardware is a necessary gate kit for installing a rolling gate. It is applicable for both residential and commercial applications. It allows users to customize the materials when building the gate from scratch.
A sliding gate hardware kit typically includes a mounting bracket, track wheels, sliding gate track bracket, and rolling gate latch. There is a wide range of rolling gate hardware, but here are a few of the basic parts:
Front Wheel Carrier
Front-wheel carriers are the support part of the rolling gate. It holds up the latch side of the gate and keeps it lined up with the adjoining latch post. Most wheels are galvanized and are heavy-duty to support the weight of the gate.
The size and wheel carrier types differ according to the size of the fence and the terrain it will be used. But the heavier models are often the best when starting your rolling gate from scratch.
Rear Wheel Carrier
The rear wheels are attached to the opposite side of the front wheel. It supports the rear part and keeps the gate on the track. Attaching the gate to the track is possible through the small steel plate mounted on the top part of the rear wheel.
Double Wheel Carrier
Double wheel carrier is also known as the gate helper wheelset. It often includes rubber wheels, galvanized steel gate frame and a universal bolt that attaches it to the existing rolling gate system. Its purpose is to keep the chain link track roller working highly efficiently.
Pipe Track Brackets
Pipe track brackets attach the track to the post to create a pipe track. Each bracket wraps around the outside of the fence and is fastened with a pipe or tubing.
Most brackets are made of galvanized steel and are available as a universal mount, residential track bracket or flat back. Flat backtrack brackets are used for wood, steel and aluminum plate styles. A typical 8 to 10-ft chain link fence post requires one track bracket each.
Latch or Locking Device
A rolling gate latch is the hardware that connects and latches the gate into the post of a fenced area. Latches come in different types, such as the gravity gate latch, spring-loaded and bolt-secured. They are also made of different materials that suit the style and design of the rolling gate.
More than its tone, color and style, the best latch for any gate must be durable. It is exposed to different outdoor weather and elements; some materials may not last as long as others.
Pros and Cons of Rolling Gate
Rolling gates are generally built robust and heavy-duty, depending on the materials used in them. But of course, some conditions either make them conducive or not in the driveway.
Pros
- Ideal for tight spaces
- Space saving
- Inexpensive
- Customizable
- Rolling gate hardware comes in universal fittings
- Easy to install
- Easy to maintain
Cons
- Does not sit flush with the ground
- The bottom gap can allow the entry and exit of small animals
- Susceptible to snow blockage
- Cannot be automated
Automated Gate Systems for Rolling Gates
Unfortunately, automation is not available for rolling gates. Since the wheels are directly in contact with the ground, the friction will only destroy the gate operator. Piling up snow and debris will also make the operation fail. A rolling gate is only viable when manual force and intervention are available. Only humans can control the direction of the gate and solve site and weather problems.
If you wish to automate your gate, the cantilever and v-tack sliding gates are ideal. But, these gates have different structures and may require more alterations before hooking to a system.
Rolling Gate Hardware
A rolling gate is one of the easiest heavy-duty gates to install that even do-it-yourselfers can use. You only need the basic rolling gate hardware and some gate accessories to start the project.
If you do not like remote operation and technology, a rolling gate is a practical manual gate option. It is also doable if you are trying to save on space and need an economical but functional entryway gate.
If you are looking for rolling gate hardware and accessories, contact us at All Security Equipment. We carry different brands that specialize in gates and automation. While most of our products are geared towards automatic and electric gates, we also have rolling gate hardware.
If you can't find what you are looking for on our website, call or email us. We will gladly help with our products and arrange delivery as needed.
