Here are five ways to know when to replace your automatic gate.
Even the best automatic gates have a limited lifespan. Exposure to the elements eventually damages parts of the gate, such as the motor, internal components, hinges, and other essential components.
While repairing these automatic gate issues is possible, sometimes a gate has simply faced too much wear and tear to make it worth fixing. Sometimes, it’s cheaper and easier to replace the gate simply. Knowing when to replace your automatic gate can be difficult, especially when driving past and not paying much attention.
Here are five ways to know when to replace your automatic gate.
Slow Operation
The last thing you want from an automatic gate is slow operation. If your gate always takes a long time to open and close, the opener needs to be replaced. Gates should open and close in just a few seconds.
Sometimes, the issue is fixable, especially if it’s caused by an obstruction on the track or minor problems with the motor, but if you don’t notice obvious causes for the reduced mobility, then a replacement is probably the only option.
Gate Doesn’t Close or Open
Just like slow operation, you never want your automatic gate to be unable to open or close; otherwise, it isn’t much use. Again, check for obstructions to see if this is the cause of the problem. If not, you probably need to replace the motor or the entire gate, depending on the severity of the problem and the availability of replacement parts.
Damaged Motor
When an automatic gate motor is heavily damaged, it’s an obvious sign that a replacement is needed. However, a new motor does not guarantee that your gate will be fixed, so sometimes it’s easier to replace the entire thing.
Look for signs of corrosion or rust around the motor to see how damaged it is. Sometimes, wear and tear causes damage, while it’s often caused by extreme weather or even pests, so take the time to inspect the gate motor to determine if your gate needs to be replaced.
Not Enough Safety Features
Sometimes, a gate is still operating, but it should still be replaced when there are obvious safety risks. This often happens with older gates installed when safety regulations were not in place.
For instance, collision and crushing are massive safety risks that could be present in older gates, so check for any safety features, or a lack thereof, to see whether your gate should be replaced with a safer upgrade.
No Spare Parts Available
Sometimes you can fix common automatic gate problems by replacing parts, but these aren’t always available. If you find it impossible to buy any replacement part, such as a motor or minor components, then you probably want to replace it.
With a new automatic gate, you benefit from easily replaceable parts should problems arise down the line, saving you a lot of time and money over the long term.
Trust Kirken Gates for Your Commercial Gate Installation
Securing your business with a custom-designed gate system is an investment in your property’s safety and your peace of mind. With Kirken Gates, you can trust that every detail is handled by experienced professionals. Kirken Gates takes pride in delivering professional, reliable service to clients throughout Maryland, Northern Virginia, and Washington, D.C. From custom designs and professional installations to round-the-clock maintenance and support, we’re committed to delivering top-tier service for your commercial gate needs.
Contact us today to learn more about how we can help secure your commercial property with a high-quality, customized gate system! Contact our Main Office at 1-866-4KIRKEN (1-866-454-7536) or [email protected], or place a Service Call at 1-866-4KIRKEN (1-866-454-7536).