What Do Gate Automation Installers Do? From Site Survey to Installation

Starting With a Site Survey

The first stage of a gate automation project is understanding the property. During an initial site visit, the entrance can be measured and assessed to determine factors such as driveway width, available opening space, ground conditions and the position of existing walls or gate posts. This information helps establish which gate design and automation system will work best for the property.

Choosing Your Electric Gates

Once the entrance has been assessed, you can start considering the gates themselves. Size, weight and design all influence the finished automated system. Suffolk Gates' gate range includes a variety of handcrafted timber designs suitable for manual and electric installations, alongside bespoke options for entrances requiring something more individual. Considering the gate and automation together from the beginning can help create a more practical and cohesive finished entrance.

Selecting the Right Gate Automation

Different properties require different automation systems. Aboveground automation uses automation equipment fitted to the gates and can provide a reliable solution for many properties, including more exposed entrances. Alternatively, underground automation conceals the motors below ground, creating a cleaner appearance around traditional timber gates. If a driveway doesn't have enough space for gates to swing comfortably, sliding gate automation may provide a more practical option. Experienced gate automation installers can assess these factors and recommend a system suited to the entrance rather than taking a one-size-fits-all approach.

Considering Safety and Access Control

The installation also needs to consider how people and vehicles will safely use the entrance. Your electric gates can be combined with access control, including options such as remote controls, keypads, intercoms and exit buttons. The automation system, safety equipment and controls should all work together correctly before the installation is completed.

Installation, Testing and Handover

Once the system has been installed, the electric gates should be thoroughly tested and the controls configured for everyday use. A complete handover should also explain how to operate the system and its access controls. At Suffolk Gates, we manufacture handmade timber gates alongside installing fully compliant automation systems, allowing both parts of the entrance to be planned together. Explore our gate automation options or view our full gate range to start planning your new entrance.