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Many businesses and homes are often looking for ways to make their residence more secure and electric gates are one of the best ways to do this. When you have decided you want to install these, it can feel a bit of a minefield trying to decide which are right for your needs. We have put together a simple guide to the different types of electric gates for you to make the most informed decision…

Swing Gates

Swing gates are a more cost-efficient solution to your security needs than other forms of gate. Installation is simple and they don’t usually require the same mechanical technique as others. You can get them in automatic and manual depending on your preference and they can be programmed to open and close at certain pre-designated times.

Sliding Gates

If your property is on uneven ground, the best option for you would probably be sliding gates. These come in either automatic or manual operation depending on your preference. They are best for properties with steep inclines, gravel driveways, grass or harsh weather environments as you don’t have to worry about them swinging open dangerously if there are gale force winds.

Bi-Folding Gates

Bi-Fold gates are a good choice if you have less space for a full-length swing gate to open, or if continuous access to the property is required. They are perfect for privacy as they can be manufactured in a range of heights and widths and can be made from a host of materials such as wood and galvanized steel.

Wrought Iron Gates

Wrought Iron gates are another form to protect your property and also add a historical feel to the place. They create a great first impression to any visitors and can also add value to your property. The advantages of these gates are that they are very strong, durable and secure and can be placed at the front of any type of property.
These are just a few of the different types of gates we can provide, contact us today to have a chat about your requirements.

Electric wooden gates are a great option if you want a traditional look for your driveway combined with the technology and ease of access that automated gates provide.

What type of wood is best for electric wooden gates?

We offer a huge range of commercial and residential gates in all different sizes, designs and materials. For electric gates wooden finishes are a fine choice, and we recommend Iroko wood to our customers. The Iroko tree, Milicia excelsa, is a large hardwood tree that is native to Africa and is ideal for this type of project. Similar to teak in appearance, it has a pleasing aesthetic that can complement both modern and traditional designs.
In its natural state, Iroko wood ranges from yellow to copper in colour, depending on the age of the wood. In the wild, the trees can live up to 500 years, and like the trees themselves, the wood is extremely hardwearing and will withstand the test of time. Hardwearing wood is necessary to withstand the elements and weather conditions that exposed outdoor gates are subject to.

How do electric wooden gates work?

Depending on the entrance to your property, there are a number of mechanisms that may be suitable – from swing gate designs to sliding gates. The automation system for swing gates can also be installed above ground or underground.
View our range of automated wooden gates to find out more.

What types of electric wooden gates are there?

Swing gates

For swing gates to be installed, rams are used, which work by pushing or pulling the gate to allow access. In an above-ground system, the rams are placed on the rear of the gate to avoid the mechanism being visible from the outside. For underground installations, the electric mechanism is not visible to the eye from either side, creating a more natural appearance.

Sliding gates

Sliding gates are great if you only have a limited amount of space or your entrance is situated on a slope. To fit this type of electric gate we use a track with canter-levers to complete the mechanism.
Contact DC Gate Solutions today to get a quote or discuss your requirements.

When it comes to choosing electric gate installers there are a few things to consider other than the design and price of the gates themselves. Once you have a vague idea about the type of electric gates that you want to have in your property, these are some questions you should ask.

How long will electric gates installation take?

It is important to know how long the process will take before you commit to anything. At DC Gate Solutions, we offer a free call out and quotation service to discuss your needs. Once we have visited your site, we will be able to tell you how long the installation will take and arrange a convenient time for the installation.

How much does the company charge for installation?

This will depend on the type of gate that you choose and the property itself. However, to avoid any unexpected surprises, we will give you a quote beforehand, after we have visited your site for the first time. We do not charge by the hour for installation to avoid giving our customers any unplanned for expenses.

Does the company have a good reputation?

Based in Hungerford, Berkshire we serve customers in Greater London, Bristol and beyond, and are experts in the design and installation of electric gates for both residential and commercial properties. We are an established company and pride ourselves on our five-star customer service. You can view customer reviews at Checkatrade.com. You can also see some of our previous work here.

What will happen if the gates stop working or if there is a problem in the future?

We use our extensive experience to ensure that the system we install is compatible with your gate’s weight and design to prevent breakdowns. However, if a problem does occur, we offer an emergency gate repair service that you can book with just 24 hours notice. Unlike other companies that may leave you in the lurch for days on end if a problem occurs, we will make sure we fix the problem as soon as possible.

Contact DC Gate Solutions today

If you are interested in our services but need more advice contact us today and we will be happy to help.

Driveway bollards are an extremely common feature outside commercial properties to provide them with an additional layer of security, but did you know that they also provide a number of benefits for residential properties? Let’s take a look at some of the ways in which driveway bollards can benefit your home.

The benefits of driveway bollards

Privacy

Privacy is one of the most significant concerns for residential homeowners who live in high-traffic areas close to main roads or local amenities such as cinemas or shopping centres. Although the majority of drivers will respect your right to privacy within the borders of your property, others may see your empty driveway as a potential parking or turning space. Driveway bollards can provide drivers with a visual and physical indicator of your private drive while also preventing drivers from using your space to turn around and cause unwanted hassle and noise.

Security

Vehicle theft is on the increase in the UK, so it is more important than ever to give your vehicle adequate protection. Driveway bollards act as both physical and psychological barriers to thieves, who are likely to avoid trespassing onto your property if they see a solid obstacle that could potentially hinder their getaway. Driveway bollards will also reduce the risk of ram-raid attacks on your garage or accidental vehicle damage caused by drivers taking the wrong turning.

Minimalist aesthetics

Many residential homeowners avoid adding additional security measures, such as steel gates, to the exterior of their home because they can block the view of their property from the street (and vice versa) or be a barrier to essential pedestrian access. If you have a particularly beautiful view from your home, driveway bollards can give your property the security and privacy it needs without restricting your sightlines and still permitting easy access on foot, for a minimalist alternative.
If you are interested in installing automatic or manual driveway bollards or gates outside your property, get in touch with our friendly team at DC Gate Solutions today.