Automatic gates, Best system design..
‘What is the best design for an automatic electric gate? The right one for you! Not what you may first think you want, but what you would end up wanting, given enough experience! Many people learn the hard way.
‘What do you mean, the right one, especially as I am sure that I know what I want? I could offer you exactly, or just very close to, what you like, make it seem reasonably priced, tell you it should be great and I’m quite sure you would place your order with me! But would it remain what you want?
‘I don’t understand remain? Meeting a customer’s initial cosmetic wishes, can sound great and even look good, but if the system does not fulfil its purpose, or keeps breaking down, or simply misbehaves, then the best design would have been lacking.
Many enquirers ask for a design that places the cosmetic requirement beyond all others and some installers prey on this, with a solution that may simply deliver on appearance alone. Unfortunately, looks are not everything, (where have I heard that one before?) And reliability becomes more important when it is often too late.
So what should I be looking for? First is a design that will deliver safely on its purpose.
Why do you want a gate and what should it do for you? And one that will continue to serve its purpose, safely delivering reliability within the location and its environment.
Second is reliability across every aspect, from ground-works, building, gate and support structures, operators, controls and equipment. Even associated products and services that may not seem important beforehand, but prove otherwise. Communications, lighting, mail and deliveries etc. All the consequences of having a closed gate?
Third is quality and skill of the installer to ensure all parts are fitted correctly, adjusted and commissioned to your satisfaction.
Fourth is to make sure that the whole system is serviceable and maintainable for its complete life, with parts availability or replacement readily accessible.
What should I avoid? People who just say yes! Ask for proof and do some neutral research.
Great design makes for great results gate-a-mation knowhow since 1988.