Automating a gate is not always about luxury: an automatic gate is a practical upgrade that brings additional convenience, security, and even a touch of modernity to your home or property.
Whether you own a driveway, a business entrance, or a security gate, upgrading to an automatic gate brings unique benefits, and your premises will certainly be better for it.
But at what cost does gate automation come, and are some gates better suited for automation than others? How exactly should you automate your gate?
We have everything you need to know if you are thinking about automating your gate.
Why Should You Automate Your Gate?
There’s no shortage of reasons to automate your gate, and the advantages tend to vary depending on whether your property is private, commercial, or public.
However, the main advantages of automating your gate converge around convenience, security, safety, and long-term durability.
1. Increased Convenience
With an automated system, all you need is a click of a button, a remote, or even your smartphone to open the gate. Here are some specific scenarios in which this can make a difference:
- On a rainy day, you do not have to get out of your car to open the gate.
- The elderly people in your home do not have to make the long trip to open/close the gate every time they step in or out.
- For commercial premises, there is no need to hire staff to open/close the gate.
2. Enhanced Security
An automatic gate plays a big role in preventing break-ins or intrusions to your property. A manual gate can be broken into, but it takes a lot more to be able to hack an automatic gate.
Even in case of a break-in, having an automatic gate makes it easier for the intruder to be identified and brought to order.
A motorized gate can be paired with an intercom system or cameras for an extra layer of surveillance. You get video evidence and gate-opening records in case of a break-in.
Get 64-Bit Rolling Code
Most gate openers are equipped with rolling code technology, which is complex and difficult to crack. For maximum security, go for a gate opener with 64-bit rolling code technology, which is nearly impossible to crack, even for top hackers.
Gate opener providers like Zumi gate openers provide this extra security at an affordable price.
3. Extra Safety
Contrary to what people think, upgrading to an automated system does not mean you automatically sacrifice the safety and reliability of manual gates.
In truth, an automated gate is safer and (at least) as reliable as a manual gate.
Automated gates often come with sensors that stop the gate if there’s an obstruction in the way, preventing accidents.
Once the sensors pick up an object in the gate’s path, they not only stop the gate from advancing but automatically trigger the gate to reverse on its course.
4. Property Value Boost
An automated gate communicates safety and sophistication: two attributes that generally induce buyers to pay more.
A well-installed automated gate can raise your home’s value and curb appeal.
Is Automating a Gate Expensive?
The cost of automating a gate varies depending on the type of gate, the size of the gate, and the material it is made of.
However, it is safe to say that automating a gate is not necessarily as expensive as people think.
Here are some ballpark estimates for automating a gate
- Basic Systems: $500–$1,500 (includes motor and basic controls).
- Higher-End Systems: $2,000–$4,000 (includes advanced features, such as smartphone integration and professional installation).
Find here a complete breakdown of gate opener costs.
Factors That Influence Cost of Automation
i. Type of Gate
- Swing gates are usually cheaper to automate than sliding gates.
- Sliding gates require a track and more complex motor systems.
ii. Size and Material
Heavier materials (like wrought iron or steel) require more powerful motors. More powerful motors are more expensive, which increases the cost.
If you have a wood gate or a much smaller single-leaf metal gate, it will be a lot less costly to automate your gate.
iii. Automation Features (Basic/Advanced)
Basic automatic gate systems may only include a remote or keypad.
Advanced systems can connect to apps, accommodate cameras, and work with WIFI and home security systems. They are more expensive.
iv. Installation (DIY or Professional)
If you hire a professional installer, the labor cost adds to the overall price. But there are DIY options for more hands-on people.
What Do You Need to Automate a Gate?
When you're ready to automate, you’ll need a few essential components. First, a gate motor, steady and reliable power supply, control panels, remote controls, safety sensors, etc.
Here’s a breakdown:
Motor (Gate Opener)
The motor is the heart of the system, responsible for opening and closing the gate.
- For swing gates, you can choose an arm or underground motor.
- For sliding gates, you'll need a track system.
Sufficient and Steady Power Supply
Most automated gate systems run on electricity; hence, they are also called electric gates.
However, there are solar-powered options if you’re looking for something eco-friendly.
A Control Panel
- The control panel manages the motor, sensors, and safety features.
- It connects the various parts of your system.
Remote Control or Keypad
- You’ll need a way to operate the gate from a distance.
- Remotes are most common, but consider keypads, intercoms, and smartphone apps for additional convenience and security.
Safety Sensors
- Safety sensors detect obstacles in the path of the gate and stop it from closing if something is in the way.
- This is how you prevent accidents from happening when you upgrade to an automatic gate.
Battery Backup (Optional)
For homes or businesses that need reliability even during power outages, a battery backup will keep the system running.
A battery backup will also come in handy if you live in an area where electricity can be unstable.
Gate Hardware and Mounting
Depending on the type of gate, you'll need hinges, rollers, or tracks to ensure smooth operation.
Optional Security Features: Cameras, motion sensors, or intercom systems can add extra layers of security.
How to Automate Your Gate
The most efficient, cost-saving way to automate your gate is by getting an automatic gate opener.
High-quality automatic gate opener kits come with the motor, control panel, remote control, safety sensors, and all the hardware you need to mount the system and get it working in no time.
DIY is also another way to automate a gate, but most people are not in the position to handle the financial, technical, and maybe logistical challenges of upgrading to an automatic gate by DIY methods.
If you get your gate opener from a trusted supplier like Zumi, you get a variety of gate openers from which you can find one that best fits your gate.
You also get a detailed instruction manual (no need to pay for installation), efficient customer service, and warranty
You can also decide between an electric gate opener and a solar gate opener based on power availability in the area in which you live.
On this selection program page, the Zumi algorithm helps asses your gate based on its size, weight and design, then helps you choose an automatic gate opener that is best for your gate.
What Types of Gates Are Best for Automation?
Some gates are easier to automate than others; it all depends on the design of the gate and the material it is made of.
Here are the top types that can be automated with minimal hassle:
- Swing Gates. They work like a door. You can install either an arm or an underground motor to open and close them.
- Sliding Gates. Ideal for larger properties or narrow spaces. You can automate them using a motor and track system.
- Cantilever Gates. If you're limited by space or have uneven terrain, a cantilever gate is a perfect choice. They slide without needing a track on the ground, making them easy to automate in tricky spaces.
Can All Gates Be Automated?
All gates can be automated, but some are more difficult (or even impractical) to automate than others. Heavier gates might be harder to automate because they require larger motors, and gates in unsuitable places might be impractical to automate.
Here are some gates that might be harder to automate:
Heavy Wooden Gates
Wood is generally less suitable for automation because it warps over time. Moreover, a large wooden gate requires stronger motors, making the process more expensive.
Wrought Iron Gates
It is possible to automate wrought iron gates, but the process might be very costly and complex. They are heavy, which means the motor has to be more powerful.
For a wrought iron gate, you are probably better off getting a formidable automatic gate opener.
Gates on Sloped or Uneven Ground
Gates that operate on uneven ground may require more specialized systems to keep the automation running smoothly.
The installation of motors, tracks, and hinges may be more complicated and costly.
Final Thoughts on Automating Your Gate
Automating a gate doesn’t have to be a complicated or expensive process, and there are plenty of options to fit different needs, budgets, and preferences.
By understanding the different types of gates that are easiest to automate, what components you’ll need, and how to approach installation, you’ll be well on your way to enjoying the benefits of a motorized entrance.
Here are the 5 best automatic gate openers you can (probably) afford.
