Category: Gate Operators
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Considering adding a residential entrance gate? Here is what you should know.
An entrance gate adds significant curb appeal and security to any estate home. However, a few considerations are to be made when you look to install an electric gate and the many benefits that come with improving your property with an entrance gate.
Design
Entrance gates are not an off-the-shelf product. The drive’s opening can vary significantly in size, and you need a gate that can handle the anticipated traffic. In addition, you should speak with the engineering designer to collaborate on the type of design that will best fit the home’s architectural design. There are contemporary-style gates with clean lines and more traditional styles that would better fit a Mediterranean-style home.
Types of Entrance Gates
Depending on the opening, you might choose a slide gate or a swing gate. A slide gate does precisely that, and it slides out of the way when opening. A swing gate can have a single or double gate that swings open when engaged.
Decorative Elements
You can add many elements to enhance the design of your entrance gate, including finials, collars, hinges, handles, knobs, logos, and other elements to give you a one-of-a-kind look.
Pedestrian Gate
Often a matching pedestrian gate is paired with the entrance gate. These gates allow foot traffic to enter the property but keep out unwanted guests, including burglars and solicitors.
Entrance Gate Materials
Entrance gates that are made of aluminum are highly recommended. Aluminum is strong, lightweight, and corrosion resistant, which are excellent features when manufacturing an entrance gate. Because of aluminum’s malleability, the sky is the limit for design options. If you can dream it, we can build it. Gates can also be made of steel and wrought iron, which is more robust but significantly more expensive.
Gate Operators and Access Systems
The gate opener should be well made to stand up to the outside elements and be powerful enough to open and close the entrance gate easily. Ideally, it would be best to add a battery backup so the gate can be operated if the power goes out. Access systems can be as simple as inputting code, or more advanced systems are available that allow you to control your gate through an app on your smartphone from anywhere you have service. You can also receive notifications when the gate opens, closes, or is left open for an extended period.
Maintenance
Like any mechanical device that sits out in the elements, it might be wise to consider a maintenance plan. There is no good time for an entrance gate to malfunction, and regular maintenance will minimize that risk. In addition, routine maintenance will ward off costly repairs that might be necessary without regular upkeep.
EDL / Gate Masters is a third-generation, family-run business that has been in business since 1964. We specialize in manufacturing custom aluminum entrance gates. Our skilled artisans and welders are all in-house and will create a beautiful, one-of-a-kind entrance gate for your property. We use only trusted brands such as Chamberlain / LiftMaster and Door King for our gate openers. EDL / Gate Masters will walk you through the entire process from design, build, and final installation. Integrity, dependability, fairness, and honesty our the company’s guiding principles, and we make sure we treat all customers professionally. Call us for a free estimate at (954) 972-9300.