All of the questions we are asked most commonly, for your ease of use
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.
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.
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.
The simple answer is yes, this is perfectly possible, but the gate design, operating method and size will be a major factor for deciding if there might be an issue or additional measure might be required to deal with the wind exposure. This would be the same for any other material of course like timber or steel.
Solid entrance gate designs and wider sets of swing gates will have far more intense wind loading on the gate panels when closed than any open slatted designs. A solid design, but a sliding gate mechanism will not have the same potential issues as a pair of swing gates and the forces needed to keep them closed in high winds. Sliding electric gates will take a lot more wind load and are also better for preventing forced entry too. They slide closed and the front profile of the gate usually sits in a vertical C section which holds the gate leaf absolutely solid, providing more security as well.
Another issue with swinging entrance gates in exposed and windy areas is the gate motors have to be adjusted to ensure they can fight against the wind loads and this will mean the safety methods have to be robust too, simply to prevent crushing when closing or in some cases when opening against a wall or fence. Wind is a big enemy of larger gates and the sliding gate teds to resolve most of the issues faced
So, yes is the answer, but it depends on the design and operating method.
From the day of order between 2-3 week to complete the project.
Usually not, but if you live in a conservation area or have a listed building, you may need planning permission. It is advisable to check with your local authority.
We can assist with drawings and images once we know what you are looking for to assist any planning application.
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.