15 Mar
Autogate

Elevate Your Property with Automatic Gates!

Unlock the potential of your property, big or small, with the convenience and security of electric gates from Autogate. Wondering how to choose the ideal automatic gate for your compact driveway? Let’s explore our expert tips to find your perfect match!

Exploring Gate Types

Discover the right gate style to suit your space:

  • Bi-Fold Gates: Ideal for limited space, these gates elegantly open like a book, utilising minimal space.
  • Sliding Gates: Maximise your driveway space by sliding gates parallel to the fence line, perfect for properties near roads.
  • Telescopic Sliding Gates: Customisable and sleek, these gates split into multiple parts, optimising narrow entrances.
  • Curved Electric Gates: Tailored to fit snugly in complex areas while ensuring top-notch security.

Choosing the Right Track

Select the perfect gate track option:

  • Tracked Sliding Gates: Ideal for even surfaces, offering smooth operation with a track system.
  • Cantilever Sliding Gates: Trackless and perfect for rough terrains, providing seamless access without tracks.

Material Matters: Wood vs. Metal

Consider the aesthetics and durability of your gate material:

  • Wooden Gates: Classic charm meets functionality, enhancing your property’s curb appeal.
  • Metal Gates: Sleek, modern, and robust, ensuring long-lasting performance and security.

Access Control Solutions

Ensure seamless access management with our cutting-edge controls:

  • Keypad Entry: Securely control access with a custom 4-digit code, granting entry to authorised individuals.
  • Intercom Systems: Enhance privacy and security with wired or wireless intercoms, tailored to your needs.
  • Timer Controls: Take charge of gate operations with customisable scheduling, perfect for businesses and homes alike.

Elevate Your Property with Autogate!

Transform your property’s security and aesthetics with our premium automatic gates. Ready to discuss your gate design? Contact our expert team today for personalised assistance and seamless installation.

Contact Autogate Now!

Unlock the potential of your property with Autogate’s premium automatic gates. Call us today at 01420 487700 to elevate your property’s security and style!

14 Dec
Autogate

Elevate Your Security with Automated Gates – Here’s Why You Should Act Now!

Welcome to a new era of security and convenience! Automated gates are not just gates; they are your first line of defence, seamlessly blending cutting-edge technology with unmatched benefits. Don’t miss out on the transformation – here’s why you should embrace automated gates:

1. Unparalleled Security: Fortify Your Space

Experience security like never before! Automated gates add an extra layer of protection to your home or business, sending a clear message to unauthorised intruders: Access Denied! Our latest gates boast advanced security features, including keyless entry, intercom systems, and video surveillance. Safeguard what matters most.

Your Security Upgrade Awaits – Inquire Now!

2. Remote Access: Control at Your Fingertips

Take control, anytime, anywhere! With our automated gates, you can manage property access remotely. Whether it’s granting entry to guests or allowing service providers in when you’re away – it’s all just a click away. Embrace the power of remote access for ultimate convenience.

Unlock Remote Control – Get Your Automated Gate Today!

3. Tailored to Perfection: Your Gate, Your Way

Personalisation meets protection! Our gates are not one-size-fits-all; they’re a reflection of your style and needs. Choose the design, colour, and access control options that resonate with you. Integrate seamlessly with your existing security systems for a bespoke solution tailored to perfection.

Design Your Defense – Consult with Our Experts Now!

4. Effortless Convenience: A Lifestyle Upgrade

Say goodbye to manual hassles! Enjoy the luxury of opening and closing your gate with a mere click. No more battling bad weather to secure your property – let technology do the heavy lifting. Convenience is not just a benefit; it’s a lifestyle upgrade.

At Autogate, we don’t just offer gates; we provide a security revolution. With over 16 years of industry expertise and collaboration with top gate automation brands in the UK, we bring you the pinnacle of automated gate installation and maintenance.

Don’t Miss Out – Contact Us Now for a Secure Tomorrow!

07 Nov
Autogate

Unlock the Magic of Self-Opening Gates with AutoGate Solutions!

Ever wondered how self-opening gates work their enchanting charm? Unlike traditional automatic gates, self-opening gates seem to move on their own as you approach, providing you with a touch of luxury and convenience. So, how do they achieve this mystical feat? Read on to unveil the secret behind these self-opening gate wonders.

🚪 How Do ‘Regular’ Automatic Gates Operate?

Traditional automatic gates rely on powerful motors and sophisticated control systems. These systems coordinate the gate’s movement and behavior, responding to signals from various components. You have the power to command your gates to open and close, either through a remote transmitter or via access control intercoms that let you communicate with visitors.

🚦 How Do Automatic Gates Ensure Safety?

Safety is paramount when it comes to automatic gates. To prevent collisions with cars, pets, and people, sensors play a vital role. Some gates feature obstacle detection systems within their motors, while others use safety edges – rubber tubes that can halt the gate’s movement when compressed upon contact.

📡 Introducing Passive Photocells

For a non-contact safety solution, passive photocells come to the rescue. They work in pairs, with one unit emitting an invisible beam to its passive twin. If anything crosses this beam, the gate control system stops the gate’s movement without any physical contact. This setup ensures a safe distance is maintained between the gate and potential obstacles.

⚡ Active Photocells for Safety and Egress Control

To add an extra layer of security and egress control to your gates, consider active photocells with powered transmitter and receiver units. These photocells provide a range of 7 to 15 meters and require power via a cable for the receiver unit.

🚗 Vehicle Detection – The Key to Self-Opening Gates

To transform your automatic gates into self-opening gates, vehicle detection is essential. As your car approaches the gates, a recognition system must trigger the gates to open automatically. Many self-opening gate systems rely on electromagnetic induction, detecting the presence of a car via changes in an electromagnetic field.

🌟 Vehicle Detection Devices for Self-Opening Gates

Discover the various devices used to create the magic of self-opening gates:

📸 Active Photocells: Placed strategically inside your driveway, these photocells open your gates as you drive up and break the beam. However, they may open if something large disrupts the beam, making them less secure.

🔗 Inductive Loop: A loop of special cable installed beneath the driveway generates an electromagnetic field. When a car enters this field, a signal is sent to the gate control, prompting the gates to open. Proper installation is crucial for safety and effectiveness.

🔍 Magnetoresistive: These systems work similarly to inductive loops but are smaller and more versatile. They can serve as safety devices with sensitivity settings to prevent false signals.

🚀 Elevate Your Gates to the World of Self-Opening Magic with AutoGate!

If you desire gates that open as if by magic, yet offer unparalleled security, AutoGate Solutions has the answer. We specialise in retrofitting egress control for self-opening gates and seamlessly integrate it into new gate automation installations. Don’t miss out on this enchanting upgrade!

📞 Contact AutoGate today on 01420 551 386 or email us at sales@autogatepsr.co.uk to embark on a journey to self-opening gate luxury and security. Let the magic begin, and call us now to turn your dreams of self-opening gates into reality!

27 Aug
Autogate

Automated Gate Systems – How Do They Function?

Have you ever pondered over how automated gate systems actually operate?

Automatic gates open and close with a simple press of a button on a remote transmitter. Others can be controlled from within the house through an intercom system installed at the gate, allowing communication with visitors.

But self-opening gates seem to work on their own as homeowners approach them while driving out.

These self-opening gates utilise specialised devices and controls to achieve exit control, and this article elucidates how this process unfolds. 

HOW DO ‘CONVENTIONAL’ AUTOMATIC GATES FUNCTION?

Automatic gates require motors to enable movement. They come with built-in control systems that instruct the motors on what actions to take and how to respond differently when receiving input from additional components in the system. These components can include safety devices to prevent contact with moving gates.

You can also command your automatic gates to open and close using radio signals sent when you press a button on a handheld remote transmitter. Alternatively, you may utilise access control intercoms to communicate with visitors at your driveway gates, allowing you to decide whether to grant them access or not.

HOW DO AUTOMATIC GATES AVOID COLLISIONS?

To ensure maximum safety during movement, automatic gate systems are designed with sensors to detect vehicles, pets, and people. Some of these safety sensors are integrated into the gate’s motors, while others are positioned on or near the gates.

If the gates encounter resistance during movement, certain gate motors with ‘obstacle detection’ functionality will halt their motion and reverse to allow the obstructing object to move to a safe distance.

Safety edges serve a similar purpose. These are rubber tubes mounted on walls and gates.

When the safety edge on a moving gate comes into contact with an object or person, the rubber compresses, completing an electrical circuit and sending a signal to the control panel to stop the gates and initiate a reverse movement.

Passive Photocells

Infra-red photocells function as safety sensors without requiring physical contact, unlike safety edges and obstacle detection. They are installed in pairs on either side of the protected areas. An active photocell is placed on one side of the driveway or danger zone, while its passive counterpart is mounted on the opposite side where the gates move through.

The active photocell emits an invisible beam towards its passive twin, which reflects it back. When anything moves between the two photocells, breaking the beam, the gate controls stop the gates’ movement before any collision occurs. Careful positioning of photocell pairs prevents anyone or anything from approaching the moving gates too closely.

This setup requires power only for the photocell that sends the beam to the passive reflector. As such, this type of photocell should be used exclusively for safety purposes, not for creating self-opening gates.

Active Photocells

Photocells with powered transmitter and receiver units can be used for both safety and egress control.

The transmitter can be wired or battery-powered, providing a range of 7 to 15 metres. The receiver unit always requires a power source via cable.

WHAT IS NEEDED TO ENABLE SELF-OPENING GATES?

Vehicle Detection

As a car approaches automated gates, something must recognise the vehicle and signal the gates to open. Many vehicle detection devices rely on electromagnetic induction.

When a car (or any large magnetic material) passes close to a device generating an electromagnetic field, it disrupts the field. This change in the electromagnetic field generates a signal sent to the gate control system, prompting the gates to open.

WHAT VEHICLE DETECTION DEVICES ARE USED IN SELF-OPENING GATES?

Active Photocells

A pair of active photocells can be used to create self-opening gates. These are installed on either side of the inside of the driveway, ensuring that the beam isn’t broken when the gates are open. As you approach the gates to leave, your car breaking the beam will trigger the gates to open automatically.

However, it’s essential to note that anything large enough to break the beam can also open the gates, making this solution less secure.

Inductive Loop

A loop of special cable is laid in a channel cut into the driveway, creating an electromagnetic field when current is applied. When a car enters this electromagnetic field, a signal is sent to the gate control.

Inductive loops can be used for safety and self-opening gates, but proper installation is crucial. The channels accommodating the cable must be 50mm deep and feature curved corners to avoid cable damage. Additionally, they must be over 1m away from other large metallic objects.

Once the channels are dug and the cable is in position, bitumen is filled in to protect the cable from damage and ensure waterproofing.

Magnetoresistive

Magnetoresistive systems operate similarly to loops, but they are much smaller. A channel is cut into the driveway for a single slimline detector and its cable. These detectors are small enough to be installed in pairs close to the automatic gates’ approach. They can also function as safety devices, with a maximum radius of 5ft.

Sensitivity settings allow fine-tuning to reduce interference and prevent false signals.

Other types of magnetoresistive detectors can be mounted by the side of the drive to provide an operating radius of up to 12 feet. However, cars must be moving at least 5 mph to be detected, making this system suitable only for egress control.

Additional Technologies 

Additional technologies for vehicle detection use ultrasonic detectors or motion detection to identify metallic vehicles.

If the idea of gates opening magically as you approach to leave, while still providing security to keep unwanted visitors out, interests you, we can help.

Call us at 01420 552 463 or email sales@autogatepsr.co.uk to learn more.

14 Aug
Autogate, Electric Gates

How to Set Up Automatic Electric Gates

The advantages of automated electric gates

What do we love about electric gates? They offer an added layer of protection, allow you to manage who enters your premises, and in the appropriate context, they enhance the sophistication of your property.

Extra perks include their cost-effective nature in securing your building, and they can provide a high degree of seclusion. What’s not to love!

What makes us at Autogate automatic gates so outstanding?

Time for the sales pitch, although we assure you, it’s worthwhile!

We are a family-run business Based in Hampshire and have more than 22 years of experience in all aspects of gate installation, repair, and supply. 

We offer a completely tailored service, designing automated gates that cater to your specific needs. We are Gate Safe approved and have our own dedicated gate automation workshop where we custom create your gates. Moreover, we only collaborate with top suppliers like FAAC, BFT, and CAME for our gate automation.

Our gates are designed and installed with durability in mind, utilising cutting-edge, industry-leading gate automation technology.

How Autogate implements automated electric gates

Once we’ve arranged an initial consultation and a free site survey to ascertain your requirements, we send you a quotation. Upon confirmation, we work on the design and provide a CAD drawing. Subsequently, we commence the fabrication of the gates in our workshop.

After completion, we schedule engineers and a project manager to carry out the gate and automation installation. Upon finishing, the gates are commissioned and handed over. Safety certification is provided to demonstrate adherence to regulations and guidelines.

Find out more about Autogate installation of automated electric gates here.

This is not a goodbye

Autogate offers comprehensive electric gates servicing, maintenance, and repair services. You can be assured that we are always available to assist and keep your gates in impeccable working condition.

28 Jul
Autogate

Key Factors to Reflect on When Transitioning from Manual Gates to Automatic

It’s no surprise that automated gates are gaining popularity in residential and commercial properties alike. They offer multiple advantages like safety, security, and convenience, and we, at Autogate , fully comprehend why many people opt to convert to the automatic side.

If you’re tired of manually operating your gate every time you enter or leave your home, upgrading to an automatic gate is the ideal solution. The good news is, you don’t necessarily need to buy a new gate for this convenience. With one of our electric gate kits, you can effortlessly convert your manual gate into an automatic one! Before you embark on this journey, there are a few crucial considerations to keep in mind.

Assess gate and post sturdiness for automation

The structural integrity of your gate and posts is a primary concern when determining if automation is feasible. Gates must be in good condition or modified structurally if damaged to handle automation. However, some gates may not be strong enough for the automation process, particularly old gates or those made of wood weakened by exposure to the elements. In such cases, it might be worth replacing the gate with a sturdier option, like a metal gate that can withstand the UK climate.

Consider the gate’s longevity

Besides its current strength, evaluate how long your gate will hold up after automation. If your gate is currently robust but may not last for many more years, it’s wise to replace it now to avoid the hassle of repeating the conversion process in the near future. Consult our professionals for advice on the best course of action regarding your gate’s life expectancy.

Examine the gate’s location for obstruction-free operation

Before installing an electric gate kit, ensure your gate can fully open and close without obstruction. Keep the path clear from debris, plants, or rocks, especially if you live in wooded areas or areas with abundant foliage. Overgrown branches, falling leaves, dirt, and insects can hinder the functionality of both automated and manual gates.

Blockages in the gate track can cause automated gates to get stuck and fail to open or close properly, affecting their security benefits. Regularly cleaning the area and keeping it free from obstructions is essential for smooth gate operation.

Verify the availability of a suitable power supply

Ensuring access to a proper power supply is vital when contemplating gate automation. Typically, a mains power supply at 230V and 10A is required. In rural locations where accessing mains power may not be possible, solar options are available, though they may cost slightly more initially but prove cost-effective in the long run.

Determine the gate type and weight for the right gate kit

The type of gate, whether swinging or sliding, will dictate the appropriate electric gate kit. For swing gates, you can choose between underground gate motors or arm actuators mounted on the gate’s back. Heavier or wider gates, like those made of solid timber, may require more powerful motors. Considering these factors will help you make an informed choice when investing in a gate kit.

If converting your manual gate to automatic interests you, you’ve come to the right place. With over 30 years of experience in supplying and fitting high-quality gate automation, Autogate offers a wide range of electric gate kits and accessories to maximise your investment. Check out our offerings on our site or call us at 01420 552 463, and we’ll gladly assist you in making the best decision for your home!

15 Jun
Autogate

Understanding the Mechanisms of Access Control Systems

Would you allow an unfamiliar person to casually enter your residence? We’re confident that the response is ‘No!’, and the same principle applies to businesses.

Maintaining control over who enters and exits your premises is essential for safeguarding your space and its occupants. Whether you manage a large building with significant foot traffic or a small business with fewer visitors, access control is a crucial component of any security framework.

Monitoring the entry of visitors into your building is a demanding task, and many are hesitant to employ a team or individual to handle this responsibility round the clock.

A Atogate access management system provides the solution. Tailored to suit your security requirements, our systems save resources, money, and alleviate concerns about tracking the individuals within your building. With over 25 years of experience at the forefront of access control technology, you can trust that our systems are the most efficient and adaptable in the market.

But how exactly do access management systems function? Our blog uncovers all the details.

What exactly is an access management system?

As the name implies, access management systems offer a means to regulate and monitor who can access specific areas and resources. Their primary function is to program occupant data and utilise electronic automation to permit authorised individuals while keeping others out, without the need for manual intervention.

Different types of access control and their advantages

Numerous access control types employ various technologies. These can be used independently or integrated with one another, depending on the desired level of security and the size of the facility:

Door entry: key fob or card access

How it operates: Contactless cards or key fobs transmit a low radio frequency to a door reader, granting authorised visitors entry.

Advantages: Electronic cards or key fobs can be programmed with different access rights for each user, allowing greater control over who can enter specific areas of the building. They also provide an audit trail that tracks the movement of individuals throughout the premises, making it easier to identify suspicious activity or unauthorised access. In cases where an employee or contractor fails to return their card or key fob upon leaving the site, they can be easily deactivated.

Biometric access management systems

How it operates: These systems employ biometric data, such as fingerprints, retina scans, and facial recognition, to identify and authenticate users. This technology is used to secure physical locations like offices and warehouses, as well as digital assets such as computers and networks.

Advantages: These systems offer greater security compared to traditional electronic access control systems since they rely on unique biological characteristics that are more difficult to steal or replicate. Biometric access management systems are also more convenient for users, as they don’t need to remember a password, key, or card.

Intercom devices

How it operates: An intercom enables audio or audio-visual verification. Homeowners, residents, or security personnel can communicate directly with individuals seeking entry to the premises and grant access as necessary.

Advantages: These systems provide a personal touch and can be monitored remotely. Note: these systems require manual monitoring.

Electric gates

How it operates: Electric gates are often utilised in conjunction with other access control systems. Regular users can open electric gates using fobs, keypads, remotes, or an app connection, while visitors can gain entry using an intercom system. Intercoms can be either hard-wired to physical handsets within the building or wireless through GSM, meaning the call from the intercom is made to landline or mobile phones.

Advantages: Electric gates have become increasingly affordable, making them accessible for both residential and commercial properties. When used in combination with other security systems like CCTV cameras or motion sensors, they provide an additional layer of protection. Automated gates can be programmed to open or close at specific times, making them ideal for businesses that need to restrict access during certain hours or days of the week.

Integration of access control security and CCTV

Integrating access control with CCTV offers numerous benefits. Firstly, when someone unlocks a door, the system can alert a pan tilt zoom (PTZ) camera, which can then focus on the specific door and begin recording. The system can also trigger a camera to record at a higher frame rate when the door opens. With most systems, you can access CCTV footage through the access control software and receive email and text alerts when someone opens, unlocks, or leaves a door open.

Interested in learning more? Our team is ready to assist you.

What sets an Autogate access management system apart?

Our experience, knowledge, and personalised approach distinguish us from the rest.

With over thirty years of experience in installing and maintaining access control systems and integrating them with other systems, we have the expertise you can rely on.

We are NSI Gold accredited and approved installers of various access control brands, including Paxton, TDSi, Vanderbilt SiPass, BPT Impro, Honeywell Pro-Watch, and Salto.

We provide a customised service that focuses on understanding your specific security needs and designing a system that best suits you.

Contact us at 01420 487700 or fill out a contact form to discuss your access control system installation.

24 May
Autogate

Key Considerations for Buying an Automatic Door

Due to the convenience and user-friendliness they offer, automated entrances are rapidly becoming the preferred choice for an increasing number of residences and businesses. However, with the wide array of options available in the market, it can be challenging to determine which automatic door will best serve your needs in terms of efficiency and effectiveness. Before purchasing an automated door for your home, office, or retail establishment, there are several factors to consider. These factors apply to all three types of buildings. When searching for an automated door, it is essential to consider important aspects such as the door type, safety features, and cost.

In this article, we will explore these aspects, providing you with the necessary knowledge to make an informed decision and select the automated door that suits your specific requirements in the most optimal way.

Type of Required Entrance

A wide range of automated doors is available, each designed to meet specific requirements and conditions. The following is a list of some commonly used automated door types and their typical applications:

  1. Sliding doors: Sliding automated doors are frequently utilised in various establishments, including retail stores, supermarkets, and office buildings, among others. Their fast and uncomplicated access and exit make them ideal for locations with high foot traffic.
  2. Swing doors: Automatic swing doors are commonly found in healthcare settings such as hospitals, assisted living centers, and similar establishments. They are also often seen in commercial structures like office complexes and retail businesses.
  3. Revolving doors: Hotels, airports, and other public buildings with significant traffic typically employ revolving automatic doors. Some private homes also feature revolving doors. These doors enhance energy efficiency by minimizing the escape of conditioned air.
  4. Folding doors: Folding automated doors are an excellent solution for areas with limited space or narrow entrances. They are prevalent in hotels, restaurants, and other hospitality establishments.
  5. Telescopic doors: Telescopic automated doors are designed to provide a wide entrance while conserving space. These doors can be manually or automatically extended. They are commonly used in office buildings and retail establishments.

When selecting an automated door, it is crucial to consider the specific requirements of your home or place of business to ensure you choose the appropriate type of door.

Safety First

When purchasing an automated door, prioritising safety is of utmost importance. While automatic doors are intended to enhance convenience and ease of movement, they can also pose risks if not installed or maintained properly.

Ensuring that the chosen automatic door meets relevant safety standards is essential to minimise the risk of accidents or injuries. For example, doors equipped with motion sensors and the ability to detect objects in their path should prevent entrapment. Safety beams should also be incorporated to detect and prevent entrapment. Additionally, automatic doors should feature safety components such as manual releases to allow secure building evacuation in case of power outages or emergencies.

By considering the safety aspects of an automatic door before making a purchase, you can ensure a responsible investment that provides both convenience and peace of mind.

Choose Autogate for Trustworthy Solutions

At Autogate, we understand the paramount importance of safety when it comes to automatic doors. That is why we ensure that each of our doors complies with government-imposed norms and requirements.

Our doors are meticulously designed and constructed to adhere to the strictest of safety regulations, guaranteeing their reliability and risk-free operation. Incorporating cutting-edge technology, our automatic doors are equipped with advanced safety features, including motion sensors and safety beams, to prevent accidents and injuries. Moreover, our doors are equipped with safety elements like manual releases, enabling secure building evacuation in case of emergencies or power disruptions.

By selecting Autogate for your automated door needs, you can be confident that you are investing in a superior-quality product that is both safe and dependable, providing you with convenience and peace of mind.

A Reliable Supplier

To guarantee an investment in a product that is of excellent quality and dependable, it is crucial to choose a trustworthy automated door supplier. When selecting a provider of automatic doors, several factors should be taken into consideration.

First and foremost, look for a company with a well-established reputation for delivering dependable and high-quality automatic doors. Assess the ratings and feedback from previous customers to gauge the company’s standing in the industry. Additionally, ensure that the company offers a diverse range of automatic door types and models for customers to choose from, enabling you to find the product that best suits your specific needs. When searching for a company to collaborate with, it’s vital to find one that excels in providing exceptional customer service and employs supportive staff who can address any concerns or queries and guide you through the purchasing process.

Lastly, verify that the company provides competent installation and maintenance services to ensure your automatic door remains in optimal working condition at all times. By considering these aforementioned factors, you can select a reputable provider of automated doors who will offer you a product that is both reliable and of superior quality, tailored to your unique requirements.

Adhering to British and European Safety Standards

At Autogate PSR, we prioritize safety and ensure that all our installations fully comply with the British and European Safety Standards BS7036-0 and EN16005. This commitment is one of the many reasons why we are industry leaders in safety. The implementation of the EN16005 standard in April 2013 aimed to protect pedestrians from injuries resulting from the design or installation of automatic doors.

Moreover, as part of our dedication to safety, each installation of an automatic door comes with its own logbook. This logbook contains vital information, such as a unique identification number, door position references, installer contact details, installation date, and identification of power-operated drive units and protective devices. The new standard places special emphasis on the significance of logbooks as the primary record of production and installation. Choosing Autogate as your preferred provider for automatic doors ensures full compliance with all relevant safety standards and regulations, offering you peace of mind regarding the installation of your automatic door.

The Price of Automatic Doors

The cost of automatic doors in the UK can vary depending on the door type and its features. The most common type, sliding doors, can range in price from £2,000 to £10,000, based on the opening size and installation complexity. Swing doors, another popular style, can cost anywhere between £3,000 and £12,000, depending on the type of swing mechanism and door size. Bi-folding doors, suitable for compact spaces, may range from £4,000 to £15,000, considering the door size and included features. Lastly, revolving doors are the most expensive option, with prices ranging from £20,000 to £50,000 or more, depending on the door size and style.

It’s important to note that these price estimates are approximate, and actual costs may vary significantly based on specific characteristics, components, and installation requirements of the selected automatic door. To obtain an accurate estimate tailored to your needs, it’s advisable to consult a reputable automatic door provider.

To summarize the costs of specific automatic doors:

  • Sliding Doors: £2,000 – £10,000
  • Swing Doors: £3,000 – £12,000
  • Bi-folding Doors: £4,000 – £15,000
  • Revolving Doors: £20,000 – £50,000

At Autogate, we are committed to meeting our clients’ requirements by offering effective automatic door solutions. If you are interested in installing an automatic door, we encourage you to contact us promptly to request a price estimate. You can reach us by phone, email, or by using the contact form on our website.

Which Entrance Will You Opt For? Autogate is the sole destination to consider if you have an interest in procuring an automated entrance. If you’re in the market for a gliding entrance, swinging entrance, or any other type of automatic entrance, our experienced team members can assist you in making the optimal choice. We take immense pride in offering our customers a wide range of top-notch entrances, all customised to meet their specific needs. Our aim is to provide guidance and support in exploring the various options available. If you require assistance in selecting the appropriate automated entrance, we’re delighted to offer advice and consider factors such as the dimensions of your building and the amount of foot traffic. Feel free to reach out to us with any inquiries or to obtain a price estimate. Our friendly and knowledgeable staff is available round-the-clock to provide you with the assistance you need.

27 Apr
Autogate

How to Install Softwood/ Hardwood, Driveway Gates:

Adding a driveway gate enhances the security and style of your home. It restricts uninvited visitors from accessing your property effortlessly. Gates can be operated manually or electronically, based on your preference. When accompanied by a fence, it provides a safe and enclosed space for children and pets. This manual is only for manual gate installation. For electric gate installation, always employ the services of a professional. Contact us at 01420 487700 for assistance.

The wooden driveway gate must be protected with suitable outdoor paint or stain and treatment. If you need to do this, check out our “How to Paint or Stain a Gate” guide. This guide will take you through the process of fitting the driveway gate to existing posts or pillars. Before proceeding, if you need to install new posts, go through our “How to Fit Gate Posts” guide.

DRIVEWAY GATE BRACING

It is essential to comprehend the appearance of the gate from the back and the positioning of the gate’s furniture. The frame and the rear structural bracing determine the strength and durability of the driveway gate. Hanging the gate correctly is crucial. If your new gate has a structural brace style, hang it accordingly. (Depending on the design, some gates may have an upside-down “V” pattern on each leaf. In such cases, you can hang either side.)

With the hinges located at the back, this driveway gate opens inwards towards the property. If you need it to open out, place the hinges at the front of the gate. Please note that gates must not open onto highways or pedestrian paths. If you need it to open in that direction, ensure you have sufficient space to do so.

HOW TO FIT A DRIVEWAY GATE

First, ensure that you have the minimum clearance required for driveway gates to operate. The opening should be at least 40mm (1 1/2″) larger than the gate. The gap clearance should be 15mm per side (edge of post or pillar to edge of gate) and 10mm for the center to allow the gate to open. If you have more than 40mm, subtract the 10mm center measurement, divide by two, and obtain the gap for each side.

HINGES TO USE

We suggest and sell only adjustable hinges. They simplify gate installation and enable you to adjust the gate’s position as needed without removing it. If you purchased the hinges from us, you would have received four hinges (either 24″, 36″ or 48″, depending on the gate size).

FITTING THE GATE HINGES

Place the hinge on the horizontal structural brace (hinges to be placed on top and bottom). For aesthetics, centralize the hinge. Mark holes and remove the hinge. Drill pilot holes for the screws. On the hinge, there is a square opening. This is for the dome-headed bolt. To allow the “dome” part to be placed on the front, you must drill this bolt through the entire gate. Proceed with caution while doing this. Begin by drilling a pilot hole using a 3mm drill bit. Then enlarge the hole. To prevent the wood from splitting as you go through, drill halfway on each side following the guide hole set with the 3mm drill.

Connect the eye bolt to the hinge. One bolt and washer should go on either side of the hinge’s edge.

MARKING THE HINGE PLATES

Next, take the hinge plate, place it onto the eye bolt, determine the distance from the ground level to the bottom of the hinge plate and add the ground clearance gap (25mm to 50mm). Now mark on the post the position of the bottom of the hinge

INSTALL THE GATE

Using a second person, place the gate onto the hinge plates.

Once both sides are attached, modify the hinges by using the two bolts to align the height and sides. Each side should have an equal gap width with the center being 10mm. This process may take some time to achieve exact alignment. The gate should be able to swing open and close smoothly now.

INSTALL THE GATE HARDWARE

RING LATCH

The ring latch comes in five pieces, including a ring latch with a connected rectangle bar, ring latch, 2 x bar catches, and a stainless steel bar. If the gate opens inwards towards you, the ring latch with the rectangle bar should be placed on the rear of the gate. If the gate opens away from you, it should be fitted to the front of the gate.

Place the ring latch on the brace and allow the rectangle bar to protrude 50mm from the edge of the gate. Then, mark the holes, and remove and drill pilot holes. After this, there should be 4 holes. Use a ruler to draw a cross to locate the center of the area. This is where the stainless steel bar will connect to the ring latch on both sides. Carefully drill a pilot hole all the way through the gate. Measure the thickness of the stainless steel bar and select a drill bit larger than that to create a hole for the bar to turn freely. Screw the ring latch to the gate and place the bar in it.

Next, slide the holding catch over the rectangle bar, mark, remove, drill pilot holes, and fix it in place.

Go to the other side of the gate, connect the ring latch to the stainless steel bar, mark the holes, remove, drill pilot holes, then screw it in place.

Close the gate and position the catch on the other gate for the ring latch to close onto. Mark the holes, remove, drill pilot holes, and screw it to the post.

BRENTON BOLT

Choose the position for the bolt (usually best suited on top of the gate). Centralize it on the horizontal brace (for better appearance), mark the holes, remove, drill pilot holes, then fix it. For extra security, add a padlock.

DROP BOLTS

Drop bolts help secure the driveway gate in either an open or closed position. Each drop bolt needs to be fixed to the vertical edge opposite the hinge side (towards the center of both gates). Position it, mark the holes, remove, drill pilot holes, and secure it in place. With the gate in the closed position, release the drop bolt till it hits the floor. Mark the position by drawing a circle around the bolt. Open the gate to enable easier access.

Next, measure the diameter of the bolt and select a drill bit slightly larger. Set your drill to “hammer” mode. Drill a hole just past the depth required. Be careful with this procedure. It is worth checking that no services run underneath! When complete, check and repeat on the other side.

Now, fully open the gates to the required position. Repeat the above process so that the drop bolts will hold the gate securely in the open position.

That’s it!  Your driveway gate is now fully installed!