Options For Automatic Gates On A Budget

Automatic gates are becoming increasingly popular.

They help to improve your home's security and add to its kerb appeal by looking stylish and attractive.

Indeed, automatic gates have long since ceased to be something within reach of only the wealthy.

Over the past few years a higher number of property owners have had them installed as the price has gradually become more affordable.

However, although many people would like automated gates, a restricted budget reduces the options available to them.

Factors That Influence The Cost Of Automated Gates

Before looking at how you can spend less on automatic gates, it's helpful to understand what factors influence the overall cost. 

These include whether you opt for wooden, aluminium or heavier metal gates, and the size of motor you will need to operate them. 

Driveway Gates

Aluminium is the lightest material, and doesn't require as powerful a motor as wood. 

A gate can cost anything from £800 to more than £3000 depending on size, material and any extras.

Gate Automation Systems

Another contributing factor when it comes to price is the technology used in your installation.

It is important to note though that cheaper motors could be more liable to break down, perhaps incurring repair costs later.

A low-cost motor may make it seem like you're saving money at the outset, but its lifespan is likely to be shorter and the maintenance an added burden on your pocket.

Consider investing in a more expensive motor if you can, but be sure to check the online reviews.

If there is a power cut, you need to be able to open your gates.

Ideally, all automatic gate systems are installed with a manual override system to allow the gates to be opened manually in the vent of a power cut or motor failure.

The motors, cables, controllers and associated hardware can cost between £300 and £2000.

Access Control Intercoms

An intercom can make sense, but isn't essential. These can range in price from £250 to £1000.

If you decide not to have one to save money, how will unannounced visitors let you know that they're outside and waiting to get in?

Automaitc Gate Installation

And then there’s the cost of the installation itself.

Will you need your driveway excavated for laying power cables, or for installing motors underground?

A specialist gate installer is likely to charge more than a generalist with an aptitude in a related field, such as an electrician or a builder.  

However, the former’s know-how means they will give better advice on the choice of equipment and the neccessary safety measures.

Their bill could range from £1000 to £3500.

Find out more about how much automatic gates might cost here.

Can I Install Automatic Gates Myself?

Perhaps the most affordable way to get your own automatic gates is to go for a DIY option.

Indeed, there is a great range of electric gate kits on the market that are relatively simple to install and set up.

However, it is essential that whoever carries out an installation is fully aware of all the safety issues surrounding automatic gate installation and operation.

Installing an automatic gate system that is intrinsically unsafe can lead to tragedy and it is always the installer who is held acountable.

You don’t have to hire a specialist gate installer, and automatic gates often be comfortably installed by a competent tradesperson such as an electrician.

However, there are reasons why it is best to enlist the services of a professional expert.

You can find out more about gate safety here.

Everything You Need In An Automatic Gate Kit

Buying all the components for an automated gate installation individually usually costs more than buying a kit made up of the essential items.

With such a broad range of manuafcturers, gate motors and accessories available, finding the right combination of components can be challenging and time-consuming. 

To help keep things simple, Gate Automation Supplies supply gate automation product bundles that represent excellent value, and provide most of what you need.

There is a kit that includes a sliding gate automation kit and an aluminium sliding gate.

If you are installing swing gates, the swing gate bundles allow you to choose from ram gate motor kit, underground kit or articulated arm automation kit.

For under £2,000, you can have everything you need to install automatic aluminium gates on your driveway.

Get Expert Gate Automation Advice

With nearly 20 years' experience, Gate Automation Supplies has been providing high-quality gate systems at competitive prices.

Our gate automation experts can offer advice about what might be suitable for your home or commercial premises.

Why not gives us a call on 03300 883 890 to find out just how affordable an automated gate system for can be?