Bi-folding gates: theyre not just a fancy upgrade, theyre a practical solution for driveways where space is at a premium. Think of that classic swing gate – all that sweeping arc it needs to open and close. Now picture a smaller driveway, maybe one hemmed in by walls, landscaping, or street parking. A swing gate becomes a real headache, eating up valuable space you could be using for, well, parking your car!
Thats where the beauty of bi-folding gates comes in. They fold neatly in half, like a concertina, minimizing the space they need to operate. This makes them ideal for narrower driveways, or those with limited clearance on either side. You reclaim that lost space, making maneuvering in and out much less of a tight squeeze.
Beyond the practical space-saving aspect, bi-folding gates offer other benefits. They come in a range of materials, from classic wood to modern aluminum, so you can find a style that complements your homes aesthetic. And because they open and close in a controlled manner, they can offer increased security compared to a swinging gate that might be susceptible to being forced open by strong winds.
Of course, like any home improvement, there are considerations. Bi-folding gates typically require more complex installation than a standard swing gate, which can impact the initial cost. However, the long-term benefits in terms of space and convenience often outweigh this initial investment, especially for those with limited driveway space.
In a world where space is increasingly precious, bi-folding gates offer a smart, stylish, and space-saving solution for maximizing your driveways potential. Theyre a testament to the fact that practicality and aesthetics can go hand in hand.
Bi-folding gates offer a sleek and space-saving solution for driveways and entrances, but their unique operation requires careful consideration of automation options. Choosing the right automation system can significantly impact the gates functionality, longevity, and overall user experience. Lets explore the key factors to consider when automating your bi-folding gates.
Firstly, the weight and size of the gate leaves are paramount. Heavier, larger gates demand more powerful motors to ensure smooth and reliable operation. Opting for an underpowered system can lead to premature wear and tear, jerky movements, and even potential system failure. A professional installer can assess your gates specifications and recommend an appropriately sized motor and track system.
Secondly, consider the available space. Bi-folding gates, by their nature, require less space than traditional swing gates, but the automation system itself still needs room to operate. Underground motors, while discreet, require excavation and careful planning. Above-ground systems, with articulated arms or track systems, are generally easier to install but might be more visible. Your installer can help you evaluate the pros and cons of each option based on your specific site conditions.
Thirdly, think about your desired level of control and convenience. Basic systems offer simple open/close functionality via a remote control or keypad. More advanced systems integrate with smart home technology, allowing for smartphone control, scheduled operations, and even integration with security cameras and intercom systems. These features offer increased security and convenience, but come at a higher price point.
Finally, dont overlook safety features. A reliable automation system should include obstacle detection sensors to prevent the gates from closing on vehicles or pedestrians. Emergency release mechanisms are also crucial, allowing for manual operation in case of power outages or system malfunctions.
Choosing the right automation option for your bi-folding gates is an investment. By carefully considering factors like gate size, available space, desired features, and safety considerations, you can ensure a smooth, reliable, and secure operation for years to come. Consulting with a qualified installer is highly recommended to determine the best solution for your specific needs and budget.
Installing and maintaining electric bi-folding gates is crucial for their longevity and smooth operation. While the allure of these gates lies in their sleek appearance and space-saving design, the complexity of their mechanism requires careful attention during both installation and ongoing upkeep.
A successful installation begins with precise measurements and ground preparation. The weight of these gates necessitates sturdy posts and a foundation that can withstand the strain. Correct alignment of the hinges and tracks is paramount to prevent binding and ensure smooth folding. Wiring for the electric motor needs to be done by a qualified electrician, adhering to all safety regulations and ensuring proper grounding to prevent electrical hazards. Finally, thorough testing is essential to confirm that the gates open and close smoothly and safely, responding correctly to the controls.
Maintenance is an ongoing process that ensures the gates remain functional and safe. Regularly inspecting the moving parts for wear and tear is key. Lubricating hinges, tracks, and the motor mechanism will keep the gates operating smoothly and prevent premature wear. Cleaning the gates, especially in harsh weather conditions, will prevent corrosion and maintain their appearance. Checking the control system, including remote controls and safety sensors, should also be part of the routine maintenance. Any signs of damage or malfunction should be addressed promptly by a qualified technician to prevent further problems and ensure the safety of users and passersby.
Ignoring regular maintenance can lead to costly repairs down the line. A poorly maintained gate can become a safety hazard, potentially causing damage to property or even injury to people. By investing time and effort in proper installation and ongoing maintenance, you can ensure that your electric bi-folding gates remain a secure and attractive addition to your property for years to come.
Bi-folding gates offer a unique solution for driveway access, but how do they stack up against other popular electric gate styles like sliding and swing gates? Each has its pros and cons, and choosing the right one depends heavily on your specific needs and property layout.
Lets start with the space-saving champion: bi-folding gates. Theyre the perfect choice for shorter driveways or properties where space is at a premium. Unlike sliding gates, which require a long track alongside the driveway, or swing gates, which need ample room to arc open, bi-folding gates neatly fold in half, minimizing their footprint. This makes them ideal for urban environments or properties with limited setback from the road.
However, this compact design comes with a slightly higher price tag. The more complex mechanism required for the folding action typically makes bi-folding gates more expensive to install and maintain than their sliding or swinging counterparts. You also have to consider the potential for issues with the hinges and folding mechanism over time, especially in harsh weather conditions.
Sliding gates, on the other hand, offer a smooth, horizontal operation, making them a reliable choice for wide driveways. They are generally less expensive than bi-folding gates and require less maintenance. The downside? You need that uninterrupted stretch of space alongside the driveway for the gate to slide open. If your property boundary wall is short, or obstructed by landscaping or other features, sliding gates simply wont be feasible.
Finally, swing gates are the classic choice, and often the most affordable. Theyre simple to install and maintain, and can be customized to fit a variety of driveway widths. But, as mentioned earlier, they require significant swing clearance, which can be a problem on sloped driveways or in tight spaces. You also need to consider the potential for the gates to obstruct the pavement when open, which could be a safety hazard.
In conclusion, bi-folding gates shine where space is limited, offering a compact and stylish solution. However, their higher cost and potential maintenance needs should be considered. Sliding gates are a good option for wide driveways with available side space, while swing gates offer affordability and simplicity but require ample swing clearance. Ultimately, the best choice for you will depend on your budget, driveway layout, and personal preferences.
A gate or gateway is a point of entry to or from a space enclosed by walls. The word is derived from Proto-Germanic *gatan, meaning an opening or passageway.[1] Synonyms include yett (which comes from the same root word) and portal. The concept originally referred to the gap or hole in the wall or fence, rather than a barrier which closed it. Gates may prevent or control the entry or exit of individuals, or they may be merely decorative. The moving part or parts of a gateway may be considered "doors", as they are fixed at one side whilst opening and closing like one.[2]
A gate may have a latch that can be raised and lowered to both open a gate or prevent it from swinging.[3] Gate operation can be either automated or manual. Locks are also used on gates to increase security.
Larger gates can be used for a whole building, such as a castle or fortified town. Doors can also be considered gates when they are used to block entry as prevalent within a gatehouse.
A fence is a structure that encloses an area, typically outdoors, and is usually constructed from posts that are connected by boards, wire, rails or netting.[1] A fence differs from a wall in not having a solid foundation along its whole length.[2]
Alternatives to fencing include a ditch (sometimes filled with water, forming a moat).
A balustrade or railing is a fence to prevent people from falling over an edge, most commonly found on a stairway, landing, or balcony. Railing systems and balustrades are also used along roofs, bridges, cliffs, pits, and bodies of water.
Another aim of using fence is to limit the intrusion attempt into a property by malicious intruders. In support of these barriers there are sophisticated technologies that can be applied on fence itself and strengthen the defence of territory reducing the risk.
The elements that reinforce the perimeter protection are:
In most developed areas the use of fencing is regulated, variously in commercial, residential, and agricultural areas. Height, material, setback, and aesthetic issues are among the considerations subject to regulation.
The following types of areas or facilities often are required by law to be fenced in, for safety and security reasons:
Servitudes[6] are legal arrangements of land use arising out of private agreements. Under the feudal system, most land in England was cultivated in common fields, where peasants were allocated strips of arable land that were used to support the needs of the local village or manor. By the sixteenth century the growth of population and prosperity provided incentives for landowners to use their land in more profitable ways, dispossessing the peasantry. Common fields were aggregated and enclosed by large and enterprising farmers—either through negotiation among one another or by lease from the landlord—to maximize the productivity of the available land and contain livestock. Fences redefined the means by which land is used, resulting in the modern law of servitudes.[7]
In the United States, the earliest settlers claimed land by simply fencing it in. Later, as the American government formed, unsettled land became technically owned by the government and programs to register land ownership developed, usually making raw land available for low prices or for free, if the owner improved the property, including the construction of fences. However, the remaining vast tracts of unsettled land were often used as a commons, or, in the American West, "open range" as degradation of habitat developed due to overgrazing and a tragedy of the commons situation arose, common areas began to either be allocated to individual landowners via mechanisms such as the Homestead Act and Desert Land Act and fenced in, or, if kept in public hands, leased to individual users for limited purposes, with fences built to separate tracts of public and private land.
Ownership of a fence on a boundary varies. The last relevant original title deed(s)[8] and a completed seller's property information form may document which side has to put up and has installed any fence respectively; the first using "T" marks/symbols (the side with the "T" denotes the owner); the latter by a ticked box to the best of the last owner's belief with no duty, as the conventionally agreed conveyancing process stresses, to make any detailed, protracted enquiry.[9] Commonly the mesh or panelling is in mid-position. Otherwise it tends to be on non-owner's side so the fence owner might access the posts when repairs are needed but this is not a legal requirement.[10] Where estate planners wish to entrench privacy a close-boarded fence or equivalent well-maintained hedge of a minimum height may be stipulated by deed. Beyond a standard height planning permission is necessary.
Where a rural fence or hedge has (or in some cases had) an adjacent ditch, the ditch is normally in the same ownership as the hedge or fence, with the ownership boundary being the edge of the ditch furthest from the fence or hedge.[11] The principle of this rule is that an owner digging a boundary ditch will normally dig it up to the very edge of their land, and must then pile the spoil on their own side of the ditch to avoid trespassing on their neighbour. They may then erect a fence or hedge on the spoil, leaving the ditch on its far side. Exceptions exist in law, for example where a plot of land derives from subdivision of a larger one along the centre line of a previously existing ditch or other feature, particularly where reinforced by historic parcel numbers with acreages beneath which were used to tally up a total for administrative units not to confirm the actual size of holdings, a rare instance where Ordnance Survey maps often provide more than circumstantial evidence namely as to which feature is to be considered the boundary.
On private land in the United Kingdom, it is the landowner's responsibility to fence their livestock in. Conversely, for common land, it is the surrounding landowners' duty to fence the common's livestock out such as in large parts of the New Forest. Large commons with livestock roaming have been greatly reduced by 18th and 19th century Acts for enclosure of commons covering most local units, with most remaining such land in the UK's National Parks.
A 19th-century law requires railways to be fenced to keep people and livestock out.[12] It is also illegal to trespass on railways, incurring a fine of up to £1000.
Distinctly different land ownership and fencing patterns arose in the eastern and western United States. Original fence laws on the east coast were based on the British common law system, and rapidly increasing population quickly resulted in laws requiring livestock to be fenced in. In the west, land ownership patterns and policies reflected a strong influence of Spanish law and tradition, plus the vast land area involved made extensive fencing impractical until mandated by a growing population and conflicts between landowners. The "open range" tradition of requiring landowners to fence out unwanted livestock was dominant in most of the rural west until very late in the 20th century, and even today, a few isolated regions of the west still have open range statutes on the books. More recently, fences are generally constructed on the surveyed property line as precisely as possible. Today, across the nation, each state is free to develop its own laws regarding fences. In many cases for both rural and urban property owners, the laws were designed to require adjacent landowners to share the responsibility for maintaining a common boundary fenceline. Today, however, only 22 states have retained that provision.
Some U.S. states, including Texas, Illinois, Missouri, and North Carolina, have enacted laws establishing that purple paint markings on fences (or trees) are the legal equivalent of "No Trespassing" signs. The laws are meant to spare landowners, particularly in rural areas, from having to continually replace printed signs that often end up being stolen or obliterated by the elements.[13]
The value of fences and the metaphorical significance of a fence, both positive and negative, has been extensively utilized throughout western culture. A few examples include:
Notes
Bibliography
An electric gate is a type of gate that can be opened and closed using an electrically powered mechanism.
Driveway gate openers can be the rollback (sliding) type that retracts a gate along the fence or wall on wheels or bearing, or the swing type that draws the gate open or closed on hinges. They are usually operated by a remote controller or a sensor
Articulated gate openers can be used for gates with wide posts allowing opening in small spaces.[1] An easy system for DIY installers as they are simple to install but not as aesthetically pleasing as other motor designs. Also known as Crank arm operators, they are the main type of automation system sold in France, where low aluminium gates are often used.
Under-gate Jack operators usually control the gate by directly moving the pivot point of each gate leaf. This makes the unit ideal cosmetically and also allows for up to 180 degrees of leaf swing as required. However controlling the pivot point of the gate, is like opening a door by twisting the hinge, and as so is very difficult due to the loads needed at that point. This is highlighted with snap, as the gate has to change direct, as soon as it can. For this reason they are recommend as only suitable for ‘Domestic’ systems in a low risk of abuse environment. Another major consideration with the use of under-gate units is that of water immersion/ingress and warranty voidance. If the water table is high or the drainage of the unit's foundation box inadequate throughout the systems life, then water ingress and unit failure is increased.
Ram or link arm units are usually simpler to install and maintain, they are visible to otherwise ignorant abuse and as they fix down along each gate leaf, they also have an obvious and sometimes major, mechanical advantage over Jacks. Therefore, Rams are far more suitable on Multi-user & commercial systems. Also the manual release is always above ground, making it often more user friendly in operation.
If space is an issue or the driveway behind the gates is on a steep incline, a better option would be a sliding gate. Sliding gates are also very popular in a commercial environment. Sliding gates are also used for cantilever gate systems.
One of the first electric gates was invented by a Canadian Fred W. Watson in 1881. It was designed to be used for railway systems.[2] In 1884, a number of American newspapers reported that the French railway companies were about to adopt an electric gate opener. “A catch connected with an electro-magnet keeps a gate closed,” reported The National Tribune on October 9, 1884.[3] One of the early demonstrations of such gates in the United States was arranged by the short-lived Toulmin Electric Railway Gate Company in 1887, in Baltimore.[4] At the end of the 19th century, electric gates were also used at horse racing tracks.[5]
The first commercial electric gate systems were hydraulic and designed for reliability and ease of use. The cost of the hydraulic systems however meant that other companies started producing more affordable electromechanical alternatives. Hydraulic motors are the preferred choice on large and heavy gates as they can generate high levels of torque, electromechanical systems designed for lower usage domestic installations because they can be produced more cost effectively.[6]
The backbone of any electric gate, whether automatic or not, is the electric gate motor, two distinct motor types exist hydraulic, or electromechanical. This is the electric device which actually enables the electric gate to open and close without having to manually push the gate.
The safety of an automated gate is an important consideration, in the European Union, automated gate safety is specified by a series of European Normalisations. An automated gate that has not been fitted with safety in mind can potentially become a major hazard particularly to untrained users. Various safety devices are available to make sure that your gates meet the highest of European or American safety standards.
Since electric gates operate slowly, they are susceptible to "tailgating" threats, in which a person or vehicle sneaks in behind an authorized user.[7] If security is a concern, a video surveillance camera should be installed.[7]
Electric gates alone, however solid and imposing they may be, cannot guarantee a completely secure environment electric locks, are often needed to boost the locking effectiveness of the gate motors. Electric gates are recommended to be used in combination with other security features to install a full security system. A few of these features are closed circuits with security cameras, additional gates in conjunction with the main gate, electronic keycards and keypads, security guards.[8]
Aside from the additional security features that should go with parking barrier gates, electric security gates often offer safety features like sensors that determine when there is an obstruction to prevent the electronic gate from swinging into a vehicle or closing on somebody's hands. To prevent the electronic gates from being damaged by irresponsible drivers driving fast speed bumps are also commonly placed before gate entrances to slow down vehicles.
In the United States all the electric gate installations must meet Underwriters Laboratories 325 (UL 325) standard while in Europe installations must meet with the Machinery directive 2006/42/EC with EN13241-1 being the regulations concerning gates.[9][10][11][12]
The installer of the gate is responsible for the conformity to regulation, not the manufacturer. The two main EN regulations that then apply are EN 12453 which describes the safety levels that should be observed when installing a gate and EN12445 which describes the testing method that must be undertaken.[13]
The major points are the maximum amount of force at certain test points. Example - a maximum of 400N of force can be applied in the last 50, 300 and 500 mm of travel of a gate, after the initial impact the force must drop to 150N within 0.75 of a second and reduce to 25N within 5 seconds. During the mid travel of a gate the allowable force is 1400N. A full risk assessment of the gates must take place with all crush, cutting points shown to the client with appropriate protection devices offered, a recommended maintenance program should also be provided. Finally the installer must confirm that all electrical equipment fitted has the European CE mark all the time.
To conform to these regulations the gate system must be checked with a calibrated force tester and the full results kept in a technical file for 7 years. If the gate is not tested it does not comply.
Most gate kits can be fitted with safety equipment so that these limits are achieved and so cover that part of EN13241-1.
In September 2010, following two incidents in Bridgend and Manchester, when children were killed by sliding gates, the UK Health and Safety Executive issued 2 safety notices aimed at gate manufacturers and installers, demanding them to comply with the Annex A of BS EN 12453:2001 standard.[14][15]
In recent years, aluminium has emerged as the material of choice for driveway gates in the UK, and for good reason. One of the key reasons for this shift is the ease with which aluminium gates can meet force limitation guidance. Force limitation refers to the maximum amount of force that a gate can exert on an object or person, ensuring safety and minimizing the risk of accidents or injuries. With lightweight aluminium gates, meeting these force limitation guidelines becomes much more achievable, as they require less force to open and close compared to heavier materials such as wrought iron or steel.
Another advantage of aluminium gates is their compatibility with brushless motor operators. Brushless motors offer numerous benefits over traditional brushed motors, including higher efficiency, longer lifespan, and reduced maintenance requirements. Aluminium gates, being lightweight, work well with brushless motor operators, as the motors do not have to work as hard to maneuver the gates. This not only enhances the overall performance and reliability of the gate system but also contributes to energy efficiency, leading to cost savings in the long run.
Furthermore, aluminium gates provide additional advantages such as resistance to rust and corrosion, making them a durable and low-maintenance option. They are also highly customizable, allowing homeowners to choose from a wide range of designs, colors, and finishes to match their aesthetic preferences. Additionally, aluminium is a sustainable material as it can be recycled, aligning with the growing trend of eco-consciousness in the construction and home improvement industries.
[16]
Overall, the combination of meeting force limitation guidance more easily, compatibility with brushless motor operators, durability, low maintenance, and customizability has made aluminium the material of choice for driveway gates in the UK. With its numerous benefits, it offers homeowners a reliable, safe, and aesthetically pleasing option for enhancing the security and curb appeal of their properties.
Evergreen Electric Gates installed a gate at my entrance a couple of days back. Logan was very helpful in answering all my doubts. His crew did a fantastic job. The gate is visually impressive and the pricing was highly reasonable. I am extremely pleased with their quality of work and service!
I highly recommend Evegreen Electric Gate ! Logan and his crew were professional, friendly, and easy to work with. Gate posts, automatic gate, and fence were completed well and in a timely fashion.
After completing an inquiry on their website, we received a prompt response which was refreshing. They sent David out to come see what we wanted, took measurements & notes and was very professional & personable! It was a pleasure working with him from start to finish! The installation team lead by Roberto was also dedicated & precise, making sure we got what we wanted! We couldn’t be happier with the outcome! Awesome gate, glides easy & so happy we can latch & lock! THANK YOU TO ALL THE STAFF & TEAM! We’re extremely pleased and grateful!
Logan was prompt and arrived as scheduled and was very polite and friendly. We took the time to discuss my options, as was very clear about the costs. The steel gate itself was fine, so we only needed an installation of new LiftMaster dual swing gate system. Though my gate required the fabrication of new mounting arms, Logan fabricated, welded, and painted them on site. Logan offered us a price that was very fair; he was able to get us scheduled within the next week, and and the installation job was completed in less than a day. Thank you Logan and Evergreen Electric Gates NW.