Even with budget friendly automation becoming readily available, manual gates are still in demand. They are simple on all fronts.They are built to last. We install manual gates for people who appreciate the positive attributes of gates, without the complexity and expense of automation.
There really is no other positive construction attribute other than the simple construction. Service required components are eliminated. Gates are driven manually. The complexity associated with automation is eliminated. A gate is simply driven open. By all means, it is a great cost saving measure in construction and in the long run.
The construction has to be present for everything to work properly. The manual version of the gates requires the most construction. This means gates must be built to properly open, no construction must be so overbuilt that it weighs a ton, and gravely inhibits routine use). We believe we have the balance.
Central to all of this is the weight. There is an immediate perception of quality with heavy steel gates, but if they are overbuilt, they are detrimental to the experience. Solid construction does not have to be excessive. We believe the heavy construction is built to exempt work. Heavy steel, at a total weight of only 30-40kg gates is very respectably heavy, but it is a vastly usable.
Our construction hinges are superior for this reason. We use lubrication hinges that are superior, and work properly at maintaining the gates to be manually operate and abused for many years to come. There is simply no other plans that cost more adjustment construction wise than properly calibrated hinges.
When it comes to gate locks, usability is critical. Sensitive locks and difficult latches create an operating experience that leaves much to be desired, especially when the user is gate is used multiple times per day. We fit user-friendly gate accessories like drop bolts, and latches, and deadlocks to make sure that security and functionality are met.
Gate stops are an essential addition to any set of gates. They are used to prevent lateral movement of the gates which can lead to structural damage to the hinges and to the posts of the gate. Gates are the only place in a fence line where damage should be allowed to happen. We provide a variety of styles when it comes to metal stops.
When it comes to gates, the design options are pretty much the same. Left right combinations, Different widths, and heights. We even fit them to the pedestrians gates next to the vehicle gates. They are often used to cover garden entries and side gaps between vehicles, but they are mostly used for driveways.
To help prevent rust we recommend galvanizing and powder coating. Powder coating is also a durable finish that will not peel or fade. For maintenance you will need to check that everything is tight and oil the hinges once a year.
You’ll need to think about ground clearance. Gates should always be able to open without hitting the ground. Usually we recommend 50 to 75mm. This will help in winter when the ground shifts. But you won’t want to have a gap so large that you can see under the gates.
Installing the gates is simple. Set the posts if you need to, then hang the gates and adjust the hardware so the gates open and close properly. This is usually a day’s work for standard driveway gates. After a few weeks we will come back to check that nothing’s settled.
Manual gates work best for people who want full control and don’t want to rely on electric gates. These gates also work best for places that don’t have power and will need the gates to be the lowest maintenance.
Even with electric gates becoming more popular, we still install more manual gates. Give us a ring if you want to discuss options and pricing.