Homeowner reference library
Swing or sliding, motor matched to the weight of your gate. Open it from the car, or from your phone.
Discuss your auto gates project →Start here · Buying guide
Choose an auto gate that fits your driveway and parked car. Know what to check in the motor, remote control and installation quote before you buy.
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Quick answers for a single decision, practical guides for planning, and detailed references when you need the full picture.
Detailed reference · 8 min read
The fitting visit is only one part of an auto-gate installation. A new made-to-order gate also needs time for the survey, design, fabrication and site preparation. Get both dates in writing: when the order will be ready and when the driveway will be restricted.
Detailed reference · 6 min read
316 stainless steel offers greater resistance to some forms of corrosion than 304, which can matter near the coast. The grade is still only part of the gate specification: finish, fabrication, fittings and maintenance affect the completed installation. Compare those details together before deciding whether the higher material cost is worthwhile for your home's exposure.
Detailed reference · 6 min read
A gate that does not respond to one remote may have a handset problem; a gate that does not respond to several controls may need a wider investigation. Start with that distinction before buying a replacement. This guide explains batteries, coding and compatibility, then covers what to do if the remote is faulty or has gone missing.
Detailed reference · 8 min read
The cheapest auto gate repair is the one that fixes what actually failed. A sensor knocked out of line, a remote that needs pairing again or a sticking roller is a much smaller job than a new motor. And a new motor will strain just like the old one if the gate itself drags.
Detailed reference · 8 min read
Repairing a faulty part, changing the motor and replacing the whole gate solve different problems. A new motor cannot correct a damaged gate or unsuitable supporting structure, while a sound gate may not need replacing because a control has failed. Establish the condition of the complete installation before comparing those three options.
Practical guide · 7 min read
Gate sensors help detect certain obstacles, but a clear sensor beam does not mean every part of the gate is safe to move around. Someone can stand near a hinge or trapping point without interrupting that beam. Three common assumptions can lead owners to overestimate the protection: beam coverage, automatic reversal and a sensor merely appearing on the quotation.
Detailed reference · 4 min read
Auto gate maintenance starts with noticing changes during ordinary use: a new sound, uneven movement or a control that no longer works reliably. Record those changes and arrange the appropriate servicing. The checklist below separates safe external observations from the mechanical, electrical and protective-system work that belongs to a technician.
Detailed reference · 7 min read
Before ordering an auto gate, check both the gate work and any changes to the driveway or boundary. A simple replacement and a project involving supporting walls or road access may raise different approval questions. Your installer should identify which checks apply to your property before you commit to fabrication.
Detailed reference · 4 min read
Aluminium and mild steel can both be used for an auto gate, but they create different demands on the finish, supporting hardware and maintenance. Aluminium is not a promise of maintenance-free ownership, and steel's appearance says little about its corrosion protection. Compare the completed gate design and the care it needs in your home's exposure.
Practical guide · 7 min read
Whether an auto gate works during a power cut depends on the backup fitted to that installation. A compatible battery may keep the motor operating for a limited period; manual release allows suitable gates to be moved by hand under the manufacturer's instructions. Plan for the people who actually need to get in and out, including anyone unable to move a heavy gate.
Detailed reference · 8 min read
Yes, you can open your auto gate from a video intercom screen or phone. You need an [intercom that works with your gate controller](https://www.doorbird.com/en/howitworks) and a wired or Wi-Fi connection to your home network. CCTV lets you [record what happens at the entrance and watch it back later](https://www.axis.com/solutions/recording-solutions).
Detailed reference · 7 min read
An auto-gate budget needs to distinguish a motor retrofit from a complete new gate. Keeping a sound gate avoids paying for a replacement panel, but the motor, protection devices, cabling and repairs still need a measured quotation. Compare the same opening, equipment and site work before choosing.
Detailed reference · 9 min read
Choose a sliding gate if your parked car leaves no room for the gate to swing inwards, provided there is space beside the entrance for it to slide open. A swing gate suits a driveway with room to open inwards but little space at the side. Check the slope and walking route before choosing.
Detailed reference · 14 min read
An auto gate that's stuck or ignoring the remote doesn't automatically need replacing. The five common problems are a gate that won't open or close at all, a struggling motor, a remote that stops working, a gate that won't stay shut or opens on its own, and rust or wear that makes it drag. Some just need a new remote or motor battery.
Detailed reference · 4 min read
Phone control can be added through different types of gate access system, but the right option depends on the existing operator and the connection available at the entrance. Compare three approaches by who needs access, what happens when the connection fails and how permissions are managed. Confirm compatibility before buying a device to attach to the motor.
Detailed reference · 9 min read
A FAAC 412 auto gate motor is rated for a swing leaf up to 1.8 m. For a longer leaf, BFT’s PHOBOS BT A25 reaches 2.5 m with an electric lock, CAME’s AXI25DGS takes 2.5 m and 250 kg, and DEA’s LOOK comes in 3 m and 5 m versions. Gate weight, hinges and daily use narrow the choice.
Detailed reference · 10 min read
FAAC 412 is an option for swing panels up to 1.8 m. Nice TO4024 goes up to 3 m. Ask your installer to check panel weight and mounting space too. For sliding gates, consider CAME BXV. BFT A25, DEA LOOK and Beninca BOB3024E are other options for swing gates.
Detailed reference · 9 min read
Auto gate installation for a landed home in Singapore starts with a site survey to choose a swing, sliding or folding layout. The installer then fits the gate and motor, connects the controls and tests the system before handover. Any new wiring needs certification by a Licensed Electrical Worker before power is switched on.