Electric gates have surged in popularity across the UK in recent years due to the enhanced security and aesthetic appeal that they offer homeowners.
They are seen as a statement of style, security, and sophistication, protecting your home from unwanted intruders whilst simultaneously adding a touch of class to your property.
By installing modern electric driveway gates, you have the chance to blend technology with design, offering an elegant solution that marries convenience with curb appeal.
This guide aims to shed light on the many benefits of electric gates. We’ll delve into the various types of electric gates available, and provide insights into materials, costs, and installation processes.
Whether you're a modern homeowner looking to add a contemporary touch to your home or a retiree seeking to renovate your property for both comfort and style, this comprehensive guide will equip you with all you need to know about electric gates. Read below as we navigate the world of automated driveway gates and explore how they can transform your property.
Why install electric gates over traditional gates?
Electric gates stand out as a symbol of innovation and elegance in the world of modern home design. Their sleek appearance and advanced functionality make them a preferred choice over traditional gates for many modern homeowners.
Beyond aesthetics, electric gates offer unparalleled security. With automated mechanisms, you can enjoy the convenience of granting access without the need to physically open your gate, ensuring safety without compromising on ease. Furthermore, these modern gates act as a deterrent for potential intruders, amplifying the security of your property. But the benefits don't stop at functionality and security.
Electric gates, with their bespoke designs and premium materials, can significantly enhance the curb appeal of a property. This not only makes your home more attractive but can also boost its market value.
Therefore, opting for a new set of electric gates is an investment in style, security, and future returns. Let us look closer at the benefits that installing electric gates offers.
The benefits of installing electric gates
Electric gates are more than just an entrance to your property; they are a blend of technology, design, and functionality that offers a range of benefits.
Let's delve into the primary advantages of installing electric gates for your home.
Convenience
One of the most obvious and celebrated benefits of electric gates is the sheer convenience they offer. Gone are the days of manually pushing open heavy manual gates in the pouring rain or freezing cold.
With electric gates, you’ll have the convenience of:
- Automatic opening and closing: At the touch of a button, your gate will smoothly open or close, allowing for effortless entry and exit.
- No need to leave the car: Whether you're driving in or expecting guests, there's no need to step out. The gate does the work for you.
- Simple remote control operation: A user-friendly remote control ensures that operating your gate is as simple as clicking a button, making accessibility a breeze.
Security
Electric gates are a formidable addition to your home's security system. They offer:
- Integration with intercoms: This feature allows homeowners to communicate with visitors before granting access, ensuring only welcomed guests enter.
- Enhanced safety for pets and children: With controlled access, there's peace of mind knowing that pets and young ones can play safely within the confines of the property without the risk of wandering onto busy roads.
- Deterrent for potential intruders: The mere presence of an electric gate can deter potential intruders, making your home a less attractive target.
Style
Beyond functionality and security, electric gates are a statement of style and sophistication.
- Bespoke designs available: Tailored to your preferences, electric gates can be customised to complement the architectural style of your home.
- Variety of materials: Whether you're inclined towards the rustic charm of wood, the classic allure of iron, or the modern elegance of aluminium, there's a material to match your aesthetic.
- Increased property value: An attractive and functional electric gate can boost the curb appeal of your property, potentially leading to higher resale values.
Due to the enhanced levels of convenience, security, and style that electric gates offer they stand as an invaluable addition to any modern home. See for yourself the difference that ifab’s electric gates made to Jane’s traditional farm house property in the video below!
What’s the best electric gate system?
Choosing the ideal electric gate system hinges on understanding its components and aligning them with your specific needs.
The core elements and additional features that constitute a top-notch electric gate system include:
- Electromechanical or hydraulic motors: These are the heart of the system, driving the movement of the gate. While electromechanical motors are commonly used for residential properties due to their efficiency, hydraulic motors offer a smoother operation and are often chosen for heavier gates.
- Control systems: This is the brain behind the operation, ensuring the gate functions seamlessly and responds to commands.
- Safety photocells: These sensors detect obstacles in the path of the gate, preventing potential accidents by stopping or reversing the gate's movement.
- Remote controls: Offering the convenience of wireless operation, these devices allow users to open or close the gate from a distance.
Additional features of electric gate systems can include:
- Manual override: In case of power outages or system malfunctions, this feature allows the gate to be operated manually.
- Warning lights: These alert pedestrians and drivers when the gate is in operation, enhancing safety.
- Safety edges: These sensitive strips detect any obstruction, ensuring the gate stops its movement to prevent accidents.
- Access control systems: Ranging from intercoms to keypads and proximity readers, these systems offer an added layer of security, ensuring only authorised access.
Swing or sliding electric gates?
When considering an electric gate for your property, one of the primary decisions is choosing between swing electric gates and sliding electric gates.
Both options come with their unique advantages and considerations. Let's look closer at the specifics of each to help you make an informed choice.
Swing electric gates
Swing gates, also known as double electric gates, are a classic choice that is reminiscent of grand entrances and traditional aesthetics. Offering a large opening area and an elegant charm, swing gates are better suited for larger properties with plenty of space.
The key points to note on swing gates are:
- Suitable for narrow driveways: If you have a limited width to your driveway, swing gates can be an ideal fit as they pivot on side hinges.
- Space requirements: These gates require space within your property to swing open, either inwards or outwards. It's essential to ensure there's enough room for them to operate without obstruction.
Potential challenges:
- Strong winds: If you reside in an area prone to strong winds, these gates can face resistance, affecting their operation.
- Sloping driveways: Swing gates might not be the best choice for properties with an upward slope, as the gates could scrape against the rising driveway when opening.
Sliding driveway gates
Sliding gates, on the other hand, are modern solutions that slide open horizontally, parallel to the fence or wall. They are sleek, modern and secure, giving the impression of a classy, high-tech home.
A key benefit of sliding electric gates is that they do not require extensive space within the property to swing open, making them suitable for properties with limited internal space.
However, while they save space within the property, sliding gates require a run-back area alongside the driveway entrance. This space, which should be longer than the gate itself, allows the gate to slide back fully when opened. Therefore, you’ll need to have ample space to the side of your entrance to install sliding gates effectively.
In conclusion, the choice between swing and sliding gates largely depends on your property's layout, space availability, and personal aesthetic preferences. Both options can enhance the functionality and appeal of your entrance but they do give off slightly different aesthetics, with swing gates appearing more traditional and elegant, whilst sliding gates appear more modern and up-to-date.
How much do electric gates cost?
Depending on the size, material and type of gate, the cost of a new set of electric gates can range between £700-£2000+. The final price will vary based on several factors, such as:
- Material: While wooden gates might offer a rustic charm, they could be more affordable than the classic allure of iron or the modern elegance of aluminium. Each material comes with its own price tag, influenced by durability, maintenance needs, and aesthetic appeal.
- Size: Naturally, larger gates require more material and potentially more complex automation systems, leading to higher costs. Whether you're opting for a single or double gate can also influence the price.
- Automation system: The sophistication of the automation system chosen can impact the cost. Basic systems might be more budget-friendly, while advanced systems with additional features like intercoms, safety sensors, and access controls can increase the price.
- Type of electric gate: Choosing between a swing gate or a sliding gate will also impact the final price
While there's a potentially high upfront cost involved, it's essential to consider the long-term benefits that electric gates bring to your property.
Not only will your new gates enhance your property value, but they also offer savings on insurance premiums due to increased security. Additionally, electric gates provide peace of mind, which is invaluable.
For a more accurate quote on the cost of electric gates, get in touch with the ifab team today.
Electric gates with ifab
At ifab, our high-level construction and fabrication work seamlessly blends traditional values with modern innovation. This allows us to offer modern electric gates that fit with the style and needs of traditional properties.
Our range of gate solutions is vast and varied. From swing to sliding gates, from classic wrought iron to contemporary aluminium designs, we cater to diverse tastes and requirements.
Whether you're looking to secure your residential home or add a touch of class to your commercial establishment, ifab can provide a tailored solution that will meet your needs. We always take the time to understand our client’s vision and work with you to create a bespoke solution that works best for you and your property.
Armed with an expert team who boast experience and a passion for perfection, we make sure that every gate we install is not just a simple barrier but a statement. With the highest standards of materials and an unwavering commitment to excellence, choosing ifab is choosing quality, durability, and style.
Want to view our work in more detail? Please view our portfolio to see the fantastic construction work we carry out week-in and week-out.
Get in touch today for quality electric driveway gates
An electric gate from ifab is more than just an entrance; it’s a blend of style, security, and sophistication.
From enhancing property value to offering unparalleled convenience and safety, the benefits of electric gates are manifold.
And with ifab's legacy of quality, expertise, and our vast range of tailored solutions, you can be sure that your new gates will elevate your property's aesthetics and security in both the short and long-term.
So why wait?
Choose ifab for your electric gate needs and experience the fusion of tradition, innovation, and unmatched craftsmanship that we offer.
Our services are available for homes and businesses in Perth and across the central belt of Scotland. Get in touch today to enquire further!
