Having gates on your property is a great way to add security and enhance curb appeal, but having to get out of your car and manually open them every time you enter or leave the driveway can be annoying and inconvenient. If you’re looking for a solution to these problems, consider investing in an automatic electric gate openers system that will allow you to simply drive up to the gates and have them magically open and close at the push of a button.

The backbone of any automatic gate is the electric motor, which is responsible for opening and closing the gates. Various types of motors exist to cater to different gate types, materials, and sizes. We’ll look at the most popular types of gate motors and what features they offer to help you determine which one is right for you.

Sliding Gate Openers

The most popular type of automatic gate openers, sliding gate operators move the gate panels via an electric motor to slide them up or down. These systems come in many forms, from entry level single panel sliding gates to more advanced double door systems capable of spanning a large driveway width. Most sliding gate operators require the installation of a track or roller guides that allow for smooth and steady movement and reduce pinch points.

Swing Gate Openers

There are a number of ways to operate swing gates, including a mechanical arm that extends and retracts using an electric motor. This is the most common option for commercial or residential swing gates. Other options include a linear ram motor, which uses a similar method but is more efficient and less expensive than the mechanical arm. These motors are also very reliable and a popular choice for large or heavy-duty industrial doors.

Boom Gates

A boom gate is a popular choice for parking lots, toll booths, and certain commercial properties. It operates by moving a pivoting boom up and down when a signal is received from a remote, keypad, or other access control device. Once the gate has lowered, a magnetic strip or pressure pad is activated to allow vehicles and pedestrians to exit. The same system can be used to stop the gate from closing on a vehicle or person that’s stopped or parked too closely.

Manual Releases

Every automatic gate is required to have a manual override mechanism in the event that something goes wrong with the system. These are usually located in a convenient place and are easily accessible, such as inside of the home or on a post near the entrance. Most systems also include a backup battery that can be installed either integrated or as an add on to the system, which will ensure that it still functions in the event of a power outage or other technical malfunction. We recommend that you take the time to research all of your options and find a system that best fits your specific needs. Westcoast Gate will work with you to select the right gate operator and install it correctly, ensuring that your new automated gate works as expected.