As an experienced engineer with years of dedicated work on electric gate systems in Essex, I've encountered my fair share of damaged and poorly installed gates. Electric gates have become a favored choice for both homeowners and businesses, offering security, convenience, and a touch of elegance to properties. However, the efficacy of these systems and their hinges can cause homeowners more problems and financial costs than they expected. In this blog post, I aim to emphasize the critical importance of finding a skilled engineer with a solid track record before entrusting them with your electric gate installation or repair project in Essex.

The Hidden Dangers of Poorly Installed and Damaged Electric Gates

1. Security Risks of Electric gates

Among the most substantial concerns associated with damaged or improperly installed electric gates is compromised security. Electric gates are installed primarily to deter unauthorized access and safeguard your property. However, gates installed incorrectly or damaged become an open invitation to potential intruders. Moreover, the control mechanism of the gate is equally critical. Simple remote fobs commonly use radio frequency transmission to open secure gates. A quick online search for "Clone (your gate brand) keyfob" often yields results, showcasing how easily unauthorized individuals can clone your gate fob's signal. Experienced car thieves employ similar tools, making gate fob cloning a real risk. A competent engineer comprehends the significance of proper installation and can identify potential security vulnerabilities in your gate system. Therefore, we recommend the Remootio 3 Smart gate opener to our customers, as it eliminates the need for fobs and permits communication only from smartphones with encrypted certification on each device. This technology cannot be cloned, and all interactions with the gate opener are meticulously recorded.

2. Safety Hazards of automatic driveway gates

Electric gates incorporate powerful motors and moving parts, which can pose significant safety risks when not installed or maintained correctly. Faulty wiring, malfunctioning sensors, or damaged components can lead to accidents and injuries. It's crucial to engage an engineer well-versed in safety standards and regulations to ensure that your gate operates safely and reliably. We've often found that customers have gates equipped with safety edges due to previous installers' advice on meeting standards. However, many of these safety edges are either placed incorrectly or in insufficient numbers. A comprehensive understanding of the risks involved in your gate installation is essential. At our company, we proactively design hinges and hinge positions to eliminate risks, reducing the need for safety edges. Though this might entail higher initial costs, it saves money on safety devices in the long run and enhances gate reliability. Additionally, we install Roger Technology digital brushless automation, known for its remarkable touch sensitivity. When combined with perfect alignment and over-specified hinges, this ensures that our gates operate with minimal forces, well below the required standards for impact and crush, without necessitating safety edges. Our preference for aluminum gate solutions further reduces the gate's weight, decreasing the forces required for opening and closing and improving gate safety. Even in cases of misuse, a falling/tipping aluminum gate leaf, approximately 2m x 2m, will weigh only around 60kg, making it easily manageable by a single person.

3. Costly Electric Gate Repairs

Cutting corners during installation or neglecting maintenance can lead to expensive repairs down the line. A damaged gate can result in extensive damage to the entire system, including the motor, control panel, and access devices. Regular Electric Gate maintenance by a skilled engineer can prevent these issues and save you money in the long term.

4. Avoiding Hinge-Related Problems

In my years of experience working on electric gate systems in Essex, I've come across a recurring issue that often leads to costly repairs: poorly designed gate systems that do not over-specify the hinge requirements of their gates. Hinges play a critical role in the functionality and longevity of an electric gate. When gates are not adequately designed to accommodate the weight, size, and usage frequency, hinges can wear out quickly.

Hinge-related problems are not just an inconvenience; they can be a financial burden. When hinges fail due to inadequate design, the entire gate system can become compromised. This leads to misalignment, increased stress on the motor, and sometimes even structural damage to the gate itself. Replacing hinges and addressing resulting issues can be a costly and time-consuming endeavor.

To prevent such problems, it's essential to work with an experienced engineer who understands the importance of proper gate design. They will consider factors such as gate size, weight, materials, and expected usage when selecting and installing hinges. By over-specifying the hinge requirements, they ensure that your gate functions smoothly over the long term, reducing the risk of costly hinge-related repairs.

Finding the Right Electric Gate Engineer in Essex

Now that we've highlighted the potential risks associated with damaged or poorly installed electric gates, let's discuss how to find the right engineer for your needs:

1. Check Their Credentials

Unfortunately, certifications are not standardized in the electric gate industry, leaving customers vulnerable to subpar services. Bodies like DHF and Gate Safe exist but don't guarantee protection. We've encountered gates that, despite being labeled as "GateSafe" installations, still pose risks due to incomplete adherence to safety guidelines. This inconsistency underscores the importance of verifying an engineer's credentials and assessing their work based on evidence, not just endorsements.

2. Ask for References and Evidence of Previous Automatic Gate installs and repair Work

A reliable engineer should willingly provide references and concrete evidence of past projects. Request photographs, testimonials, or even consider a site visit to evaluate their work firsthand. We firmly believe in transparency and showcase our installations on social media and YouTube, allowing customers to see the quality of our work for themselves. A mere photograph of a closed gate doesn't convey the full picture of an installation's quality, but a visual inspection can reveal crucial details about cable placement, electrical cabinet organization, noise levels during operation, and more.

3. Inquire About Their Experience of Automatic Gates

Experience is a significant factor when dealing with electric gate systems. Inquire about the engineer's years of experience and the variety of projects they've handled. An experienced engineer is more likely to have encountered diverse challenges and, consequently, will be better equipped to manage any issues that may arise.

4. Evaluate Their Customer Service

Effective communication and outstanding customer service are paramount. A competent engineer should respond promptly to your inquiries, offer clear explanations, and demonstrate a willingness to address your concerns. Customer reviews can be instrumental in gauging the quality of an engineer's service. When these reviews align with the evidence of their work online, you can confidently trust that you are dealing with a reputable professional.

In conclusion, your electric gate system represents an investment in the security and convenience of your property. Do not jeopardize its effectiveness by entrusting it to an inexperienced or unqualified engineer. Take the time to conduct thorough research and find an engineer in Essex with a proven track record. By prioritizing quality and reliability, you can enjoy the benefits of a secure and smoothly functioning gate system for years to come.