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All of the questions we are asked most commonly, for your ease of use

What happens in the event of a power cut?

An emergency manual override feature that works on either the inside or both sides of the gate is included in each automation kit we offer. During the site visit, we will specify which one meets your specific requirements the best.

Typically, this manual release takes the form of a straightforward key that lets go of the motor drive, allowing the gate(s) to be opened and closed until the problem can be fixed.

Is my existing gate okay to be automated?

When required, we frequently install automation kits on existing gates.

During a site visit, we will check the following for suitability:

  • Condition of the gates, posts, or piers;

  • Type of construction material;

  • Adequate working clearances between the gate leafs;

  • Suitable hinges and mounting brackets;

  • Excessive drive way slopes;

  • Distance from main roads.

It is essential that the existing gate has sufficient build strength and overall integrity to withstand the pressures applied by the motor drives.

Will my existing piers or posts be suitable?

We must determine whether the existing post/piers are sturdy enough to withstand the proposed operators' constant forces and any "potential wind loading" that could damage the gates, piers, and posts. We recommend either rebuilding stone or brick piers with appropriate steel reinforcement or installing new steel or timber posts between or behind an existing pier if they are not strong enough.

NB: Timber posts are subject to twisting, splitting, and warping - our best advice is to specify steel posts – if aesthetics is critical, we can over clad the steel posts with matching timber board.

Will you also carry out any building works?

Ground works like post hole foundations, lifting/relaying blockwork, and ducting between piers can be included in our installation.

However, if new construction is required, such as the construction of piers, the laying of driveways, extensive groundwork, or a new power supply, we can recommend several builders with whom we have previously collaborated on installations.

How long does it take to get a quotation?

If you have the details handy, we can normally give you a rough estimate via email or by phone. Our site visit to survey the work will provide a more realistic quotation. A formal quotation will take no longer than a week.

For most budget quotations we simply need a size for the gate, a rough design idea and what material is preferred, along with some idea of the expectations of the electric gate system. Is it for convenience or more for security?

One or 2 images of the area where the gate is to be installed will tell us most of what we need to know in order to recommend a gate type

How long will the installation be?

Typical delivery/installation lead-times from order placement are:

Automation/Access Control - 'supply only '– 24 to 48 hours

Existing Gates/Suitable Power already in place – 1 to 5 working days

Gate Express - 21 days approximately

New Steel/Timber Gate Systems - 4 to 6 working weeks

Aluminium Gate Systems - 6 to 8 working weeks

What power supply is required?

For domestic and residential use:

Single Phase, 240 volts, 13 amps, RCD protected circuit

For industrial and commercial use:

Single or Three Phase.

Note: Your electrician must be Part P certified and will specify the correct cable rating. All power supplies will need to conform to the latest IEE regulations.

What power supply is required?

This can be split in to two categories:

Domestic – Single Phase, 240 volt, 13 amp, RCD protected circuit

Industrial/Commercial – Single or Three Phase.

Note: Your electrician must be Part P certified and will specify the correct cable rating. All power supplies will need to conform to the latest IEE regulations.

Can I do some of the work myself?

Certainly, we are completely flexible and will scope/price the work according to who does what. Customers often undertake preparation work etc. within their skill capacity.

We can discuss the project requirement in detail during the site survey and come to an agreement.

More often now aluminium gate systems are able to be bolted to concrete pads and therefore a quicker installation can take place.

How secure will my gates be?

It is important to understand that the primary application of adding gate operators is for convenience of use. Don’t assume that the gate will automatically be secure!

For instance, a rising vehicle barrier on a car park entrance is not for security – it is there for traffic management. If security is the main criteria, in this case, adding a hydraulic rising bollard capable of withstanding significant vehicle impact would be more appropriate.

Gate Operators can be forced to a greater or lesser extent – over a certain gate leaf width manufacturers recommend that a locking device such as an Electro-Magnetic Lock is employed to avoid the operator from being damaged.

A Sliding Gate System is usually considered more secure than Swing Gates; please feel free to discuss the merits of either system with our surveyor.

Is there a range of remote controls and handsets?

Generally speaking hand held remote handsets can work from 20 to 30 metres away

Remotes (aka zappers, clickers, blippers etc.) work on a radio wave frequency - actual range will depend on various local environmental factors:-

  • Stone walls

  • Heated car windscreens

  • Weather conditions

  • Low Battery

Which access controls are best for me?

This can get involved as you need to take into account quite a few factors, our best advice is to start off and keep it simple!

Identify Primary, Secondary and Other or Unexpected Users.

Your new gate can be viewed as your front door – who do you want to let in – who do you want to keep out - how do you want allow them in and let them out again.

Primary Users – You, your family, close friends and relatives.

Suggestion – issue primary users with remote control hand transmitter – this activates gates from a vehicle or on foot.

Install a Code pad (aka Key pad) – issue a secure pin number to trusted persons

Secondary Users – Close neighbours, Postman, Wheelie bin collection, regular or arranged deliveries

For less secure situations the gates can be held open on a ‘timed’ basis during key periods in daylight hours and timed to close in the evening or night time.

Install a Intercom with or without Code pad– an intercom (voice only or voice and vision) will allow you to identify a person before deciding whether or not to let them in - issue pin number to trusted persons – this can be changed from time to time for security.

Other or Unexpected Users – Unexpected visitors – wanted or unwanted.

As above, although you may wish not to give out the pin number for the code pad.

What happens when visitors or deliveries come?

Install a Intercom with or without Codepad– an intercom will allow you to identify a person before deciding whether or not to let them in - issue pin number to trusted persons – this can be changed from time to time for security.

How do my visitors leave?

It may sound daft, but this question can easily be overlooked! There are a number options to consider both in terms of security and convenience.

You can let persons out by your remote control hand set, activate the gates from the house via the intercom, fit a exit push button, fit an exit code pad, install an induction ground loop set for ‘auto exit’.

Will the gate system be reliable?

Automatic gate systems should give you many years of satisfactory service.

Choose a reputable System Specialists such as AGD, specify a good quality automation system, follow the instructions provided for safe use and have the system regularly serviced and maintained.

Do you offer a repair and maintenance service?

Yes, in fact we have dedicated service and repair engineers to ensure your system is maintained to a high standard.

In fact the responsibility for ensuring the system is kept in good safe working is the end user – we can assist you in this by recommending a suitable service plan based on the type of systems and frequency of use.

We can offer you a service and maintenance contract or simply send you an annual service reminder letter.

Do you maintain systems installed by others?

Generally speaking, yes, however, before taking on a system installed by others we would want to check that it meets the current safety legislation requirements, if not we will make recommendations as to the necessary upgrades and likely costs involved.

Are Electric Gates Secure?

Electric operated gates can be very secure to an attempted forced entry if they are specified and built correctly. Factors such as the size and weight along with the actual gate design can make a difference in terms of the actual gate and its ability to resist attempted and forced break ins. Obviously a tall (over 2m high) and solid gate design will stop someone from jumping easily over the gate, but the same gates with inferior electric motor drives could possibly be forced open easily by the same person. It is about the gate design, the construction and integrity and then the motors used on the gates. All of these factors will contribute to whether the gates are really secure or not.

Some open lattice gate designs actively provide a climbing frame for an agile person to simply climb straight up and over, but this is a person and not a vehicle. If you want to stop a vehicle you have to go to higher levels of specification and adopt electric locks for example to hold the gates in combination with the motor drives. Ram raiding with intent of course is a different level again and often we suggest other security products are used in front of or behind the gates such as rising bollards or rising ramps. All this is possible depending on what you want to prevent.

Swing gates can be forced open where a sliding gate cannot because they are set behind the gate posts, so any lateral force applied from the outside is held far better than gates which swing inwards generally.
Different types of electric operators provide different levels of resistance and you also have hydraulic and mechanical drives, all with different sizes and power outputs. The motors are also used of course to resist wind loading, a particular issue on solid swing gates when they are larger.

Can I Operate My Electric Gates from My Phone?

Yes you can, and from a tablet and PC if required, although this assumes it is a smartphone. There are many different smartphone apps available for automatic gate systems and often they expand to control many other products around your home.
More than half of the electric gates we now install have voice intercoms which link to mobile phones so the owner can operate the gates from anywhere in the world if required.

Many systems exist of course with video interface as well as voice and then different controls which are set up when installing such as partial opening for pedestrian access or maybe just one gate leaf opening when they are swing gates.
Nearly all electric gates have a timed closing cycle so the gates will always close after being opened. The inclusion of proper safety is imperative to comply with regulations if you are operating electric gates from a remote location and the gates have auto close as well.

What is the Best Type Of Electric Gate System?

The best type of electric gate system is one which always works because in most cases when you install electric gates to your home you shift your front door to your new gates and this is where your visitors come either on foot or in a vehicle.
The best electric gate systems use high quality tried and tested electric motor systems with a good manual override system in case of a power failure at anytime. You can have battery back up systems incorporated if you feel you often get power cuts at your home.

In our view the most reliable electric gate systems do tend to be the sliding gate systems because they have less stresses than any hinged gates and less moving parts too. They only have one motor and fitted correctly a sliding gate can be pushed along easily by hand so the electric motor also has an easier time when operating.

Of course swing gates are extremely popular and for good reasons. Same simple logic however in that you need well built and stable gates fitted onto totally stable gate posts which won’t move and electric motor drives which are correct for the size and weight of the gate. Get all this right and you should have a gate system which lasts for many, many years to come. AGD Systems have gate systems in operation still which were installed by us over 30 years ago. They have been properly maintained so they have lasted…

Which is Better - a Sliding or Swing Gate?

This all depends on your driveway and layout but also what sort of gate design you require too.
A sliding gate can generally be the same design as swing gates but not always...

A swing gate with the correct specification can have the gate leaves opening to nearly 180 degrees so they can clear an opening and then some to provide the same space as the sliding gate might do, but then of course they still have to close.

A sliding gate is great because it should have less stress on the gate in the way it operates each time with all the weight supported from the bottom and the roller. The sliding gate doesnt swing outwards or inwards at any point but does slide along internally so you need the same space width as your gate width unless you are using a bi parting sliding gate.

The best thing about a sliding gate is the resistance to wind and security offered, even with a solid gate design. The pressure of high wind on the face of a sliding gate cannot affect the gate leaf like a swing gate because the gate is held firmly behind posts either side and then along the bottom with the track going the entire length.

A sliding gate is simply sturdier because it isn’t hinged and swinging around in fresh air.

A sliding gate can also be larger if required, with almost no limits to its width in fact...

Properly specified and installed they are both good gate systems but value for money and filling in larger openings the sliding gate makes more sense perhaps...

Which Electric Gate is Best for Security?

When customers ask about security it is best understood what the security referred to is preventing? In other words, what is the perceived threat?

If you are trying to stop a person from entering your property with the gates then perhaps the gate design and the height will be most relevant so this can cover either a sliding or a swing gate system but focus on the design of the gate primarily.

If you are trying to stop a vehicle entering and you think the vehicle might try to ram the gates then this is far more serious and we would perhaps look at sliding gate systems first with a strong gate construction and installation method.

Nearly every single electric gate system we install wil have an auto close facility so the gates close after about 30 seconds every time. This is the way to stop the majority of potential issues with security as most thieves will not enter a property if it has a barrier to entry and look for an easier entry from an open gate or access. A closed gate does far more than you think in reality so just keeping the gates closed is 90% of the issues solved.

Those who want to force entry are a different issue and this is when you look at the design, the motor drives and additional locking facilities as well as higher level security access control systems.

We like to think all our electric gate systems offer far greater security just by being closed and reliability closing each time. If your issue is a far greater security threat, then we can look to add security bollards or other devices behind or in front of the main gates to work in conjunction with the gates and add serious security, especially against vehicle access.

What is the best material to make gates from?

Each material has its own unique visual appearance and appeal perhaps but the material has to be suitable for use outside primarily.

Cheap softwood gates tend to twist and warp in our UK climate and therefore for timber gates you need proper hardwood species such as seasoned Oak, Idigbo, Iroko and Accoya. Of course they will be more expensive, but they will last far longer than the several sets of gates you go through when they twist, crack and rot. It is imperative the timber used is not only seasoned properly, but is also a minimum size and specification which can make timber gate extremely heavy, but still a very desirable material to use and aesthetically one of the best. Proper treatment for the gates is also imperative from the outset and the use of microporous breathable wood treatments are recommended as well as keeping the gates clean throughout the year.

For a crisper, cleaner look with a consistent colour finish aluminium is now one of the key materials used for gates. The ability to make designs just like timber or steel gate designs makes this a great material and of course it is non corrosive and lighter than steel or timber as well. Variations exist in the profile size, gauge of the aluminium used and the quality so be careful of low prices in this sector because you might also find they are a low quality build too with sections just screwed together for a fast turnaround.

Steel is perhaps one of the strongest materials for a gate and still popular in open type designs and traditional estate gate designs. Again, different qualities of steel and the thickness, gauge and quality of galvanizing exist, so do your research.
The wider a gate is the more relevant the material quality and build is because of the stresses on the gate leaf itself.

What is Standard for An Electric Gate System?

If you are asking for a professional company to specify and install your electric gates and they are controlled by remote control then you should expect the gates to have the relevant safety accessories included along with the other items.

An electric gate system which is installed from scratch should have the right support posts, the right hinges for the gate size and weight, obviously the gates themselves, but then there is the automation equipment.

The correct electric motors drive the weight and size of the gate, a manual override system, control box and relevant remote handsets for operating the gate. Then there is the safety system. This is usually worked out on a site by site basis but there are simple basic rules...

This is not optional and it is a legal requirement in the UK to have anti entrapment points covered with safety sensors on an electric gate which is capable of being operated remotely. This would be a sensor on the leading edge of a sliding gate, a sensor on the sliding gate post if the gate was open design, a leading edge safety detection on a swing gate, and so on. Any point where a hand, a leg or even a head could get trapped and then an entire body of course. Safety so the gate stops when it encounters an obstacle when closing or on some gates even when opening.

Why Do Remote Control Gates Need Safety Controls?

The simple fact that electric operated gates have motor drives which are powerful enough to move the gates means they have an inherent danger if they were to trap or hit a person.

The safety required on the gates is to prevent entrapment of any kind whether it is the swing gates closing onto someone or a sliding gate closing and crushing a person.

The fact with remote controls that you can operate a large set of electric gates without actually being able to see the gates is the main reason you need safety devices incorporated.

The safety devices on larger gates are often a careful balance between getting the gates to move without the power on the motors being set too high but then also making sure they do open and close in the windy conditions. Some swing gates also have the locking for the gates by way of the motor drive units themselves so they have to apply a lot of force on the gates to keep them closed and secure.

The touch sensitive rubber edges you might see on gates are there to stop a gate instantly if it hits any obstruction. The pressure settings for the motors are a different issue.

There are recorded deaths by electric gates in the UK, so there are now quite clear directives on what should be built into a remote control gate system of any kind. You may choose to ignore this because of the costs perhaps if you decide to automate some gates yourself but this is at your risk and is not recommended at all…

Is Aluminium Better than Steel for Entrance Gates?

Both materials have their own unique benefits and steel has been used for so many years now because aluminium processes like we see today were not available years ago. Steel is heavier than aluminium and can corrode a lot faster, even galvanised steel can rust in some key areas over time...

Aluminum is lightweight, but if specified and manufactured correctly is very strong indeed and the lighter weight gives benefits all round.

Aluminium can look a lot more refined than steel with rounded edges and curves and nowadays with the manufacturing processes can be made to look like either steel or timber, but is lighter and generally a better price whilst providing a longer lifespan with some gates having up to 25 year warranty.

Steel has its place and is mainly seen on gates with open designs, square or round bar designs. Aluminum can replicate most designs seen in steel or timber these days so is a very attractive option and always prefinished in a powdercoated colour, solid or woodgrain effect.

Are Aluminium Gates Strong?

Aluminium is deceptively strong when you consider the lighter weight of it. Many cars are built from aluminium and have been for many years. It is an easier material to form into complex shapes, especially when curves are involved.

It can be a very strong gate if it is made to a minimum standard but of course like so many building products in the UK, you pay too cheap and you will discover the reason for the lower price very quickly. There are different guages and profile sizes and for the larger gates above 4m wide you really need to do your research well.

Nearly all aluminum gates will be built from hollow section profiles and not solid sections as this isn’t necessary. The methods in which the profiles are connected is one of the main reasons for the overall integrity and sections simply screwed together for a fast turnaround on delivery usually won’t have the overall strength and longevity.

How Long Do Aluminium Gates Last?

Aluminium has always been a material used when corrosion is perhaps an issue with steel or other materials. It isn't 100% fullproof and corrosion can occur in certain but rare conditions, but on the whole in the UK it is an excellent building material for use outside.

We offer aluminium gates with up to a 25 year warranty and a lot of the longevity will depend on the environment the gates are operating within. Sea salt for example will rot most materials quite quickly compared to a normal atmosphere. Properly powdercoated or laminated aluminium gates will outlast most steel or softwood gates easily.

Aluminium is a great material for stability and corrosion resistance, so is a great choice when you find the design you require. Just check finer details once you have found your gate design and make sure you are happy with the accessories used to operate the gate too...

How Do I Maintain Aluminium Gates?

The best advice for a lot of outdoor building products in the UK is simply to keep them clean and for aluminium gates a wash down with a light solution of soapy water is the best and easiest option for keeping any potential corrosion or paint damage away.

Moving sections such as the hinges or pins used for automation should be kept greased but are generally very well protected anyway from the weather

Think of an unwashed car compared to a regularly washed car for an obvious comparison...

What Colour Finishes are Available?

Whilst there are many standard and popular colours we can pretty much offer the aluminium gates in any standard RAL colour choice as well as some wood effect painted and laminated finishes.

The best aluminium gate finish is powdercoating and most of our aluminium gates can have a 25 year warranty on the paint finish with caveats on the stability of the colour fastness.

Certainly we wouldnt expect any further painting to be required with an aluminium gate once fitted and generally the same with the support posts or tracking on a sliding gate.

Can I Use Aluminium Gates in a Windy Exposed Area?

The simple answer is yes, that this is possible, but the gate design, operating method and size will be a major factor for deciding if there might be an issue.

A solid design and wide set of swing gates for example would have far more intense wind loading on the gate panels when closed than any of the open slatted designs. A solid design but sliding gate would not have the same potential issues of a pair of swing gates and the forces needed to keep them closed in high winds. Sliding gates will take a lot more wind load and are also better for preventing forced entry too.

So, yes is the answer, but it depends on the design and operating method.

Can I Have Sliding Aluminium Gates?

Yes, most designs we offer are available as either swing or sliding gates.

Our sliding gates use a bottom floor mounted tracking with rolling wheels built into the bottom of the gate. Alternatively we can offer cantilever type gates when the ground levels are not suitable.

We also offer a sliding, 2 part gate when the side room is limited for the gate to slide into. This is 2 gate sections which overlap each other when opening to take up half the space of the full width when extended and closed.

Sliding gates also require one electric motor drive as opposed to 2 motors on a pair of swing gates and generally have less maintenance requirements over the years..

Are Aluminium Gates OK for Electric Operation?

Absolutely they are! Because aluminium gates are lighter than steel or timber gates the electric operation is in theory easier and safer all round. Many aluminium gates which are sold as a ‘system’ to include the posts and all relevant accessories from the outset will be built with the automation in mind and appropriate additional fixing points in place to attach the relevant motor drive to.

Aluminium gates are perfect for automation whether they are hinged or sliding models and we can even offer gates with the electric operators built inside the gate framework itself, nothing on display to the outside world and less safety issues..

Can I order spare parts?

AGD Systems do not currently offer spare parts, the only parts we offer are provided with the installation project.

Can I personalise my gate?

We offer several different options when personalising your gate:

✓ A vast range of colours, stains and finishes for our gates.

✓ Laser cut names into panels of our gates.

✓ Fit post box to gates (not for sliding due safety)

✓ Choice of materials: Steel, Aluminium, Timber, and Composite board

✓ Aluminium gates can make be made to have a wood effect finish; composite board can also be created to have a wood effect finish.

We also offer a several different Timbers:

  • Iroko - Most common timber for stability and durability

  • European Oak - A request for the sheer beauty of the grain but a difficult species

  • Accoya - A modern and interesting timber process to get an exceptionally long guarantee

  • Idigbo - Another popular hardwood used in gates

  • West African Mahogany - Used occasionally and incredibly beautiful when finished

Due to all the AGD gates being bespoke the options for personalisation is endless so if you have a special requirement or would like any special details adding please speak to one of our sales team on Telephone: 01933 229123, Email: enquiries@agdsystems.co.uk or alternatively you can contact us view the Contact us button on our website.

Do You Deliver to My Address?

Yes, all the product supplied and manufactured by AGD Systems are delivered to the address stated at the point of order. and all quotes from AGD Systems will include delivery details and costs.

Can I Book a specific Delivery Date?

Yes, however due to the gates all being custom made we offer an approximate date of product completion but can arrange a specific date for delivery once the gate production has been completed.

Who should I contact if I need help?

You can contact us via Telephone: 01933 229123, Email: enquiries@agdsystems.co.uk or alternatively you can contact us view the Contact us button on our website.

Where can I find the Terms and Conditions?

AGD Terms and Conditions can be found on the bottom of every quote, via the “Terms and Conditions” Link and via the "Terms and Conditions" link in the footer of our websites.

Why Should I Buy a Gate from AGD Systems?

We are well established gate company with 30+ years’ experience, we supply and install gates with wide range of selection based on customer needs, we update customer during project process. We confident with our high-end product to give 12month warranty for peace of mind.

More information about AGD Systems

How Long Does It Take for Delivery of The Gate?

From the day of order between 10-12 week to complete the project. 2-3 weeks for drawing, 6 weeks production, we book in installation once we know exact date of gate delivery and minimum 4 days for installation required.

Returns And Refunds:

14.1 Before We begin to provide the Services or the Goods are delivered, and provided you are a consumer not in the course of a business you have the following right to cancel an Order for Goods (other than made-to-measure Goods) and/or Services, including where you choose to cancel because We are affected by an Event Outside Our Control or We change these Terms under clause 3.1 to your material disadvantage:

(a) You may cancel any Order for Goods and/or Services within 14 days of placing an Order where the order was made at your home or through computer in your home and you have not signed a waiver. We will confirm your cancellation in writing to you.

(b) If you cancel an Order under clause 14.1(a) and you have made any payment in advance for Services that have not been provided to you, or Goods that have not been delivered to you, we will refund these amounts to you.

(c) Where you have cancelled an Order because of Our failure to comply with these Terms (except where We have been affected by an Event Outside Our Control), you do not have to make any payment to Us. This does not affect your statutory rights and you can obtain advice from your local Citizens Advice Bureau or Trading Standards Office.

14.2 Unfortunately, as the made-to-measure Goods are made to your requirements, you will not be able to cancel your Order once made (but this will not affect your legal rights as a consumer in relation to made-to-measure Goods that are faulty or not as described).

14.3 If you have placed an Order with us, you may cancel the Order within 48 hours of placing the Order provided, we have not commenced the Services and/or delivery of the Goods.

14.4 You may also cancel the Order because We are affected by an Event Outside Our Control or We change these Terms under Clause 3.1 to your material disadvantage.

14.5 Any cancellation under Clauses 14.3 and 14.4 can be done by contacting Us and we will confirm the cancellation in writing to you.

For more information on our returns please see our Terms and Conditions

Which Cards Do You Accept?

We accept payment using all major credit and debit cards, but cannot except American Express.

Do Prices Include VAT?

All quote provided by AGD Systems state the VAT visibly on the final cost

Will I need planning permission?

Usually not, but if you live in a conservation area or have a listed building, you may need planning permission. It's a clever idea to check with the local planning department in your area.

You are responsible for obtaining the appropriate Planning Permission. Before any work begins, we recommend being open with the planning authorities. Retrospective permission is expensive and rarely successful after an event.

To comply with listed building consent, specific gate designs may be required in certain locations; typically, we can supply these designs. Steel designs have also been requested in the past for listed buildings and conservation areas, though timber is the most common specialist request.

Which type of gate system is best for me?

When looking for a solution that meets your exact requirements, there are a lot of things to think about.

Security, ease of use, aesthetics, privacy, automation type, and property access will all be taken into consideration. Once we have discussed your requirements and priorities. We will be able to recommend the best gate solution once we know what you want.

Will my gate carry any warranties or guarantees?

New Systems installed by AGD Systems will have a 2-year guarantee and parts warranty subject to systems being serviced annually. An electric gate system is a machine which needs servicing like most mechanical items do and it is particularly important to have the safety detection systems checked and all pressure settings checked on a regular basis.

Some aluminium gates we offer can carry up to a 25-year warranty on finish and many carry exceptionally long guarantees because of their natural stability and corrosion resistance

NB: Our warranty does not cover batteries, nor does it cover previously installed automation, gates, posts, piers, or other related items by other companies.