Are you weary of getting out of your car to manually open and close the gate to your home when it’s raining or blazing hot outside? Well, here’s where an automatic gate – or autogate – system will come in handy, allowing you easy access: all you have to do is control it from a short distance.
Most importantly, you wouldn’t have to leave your children or belongings unattended, making this the perfect solution for families with kids, or those who live in neighbourhoods that are not guarded and gated.
Just as manual gates for landed property vary in size and design, autogate systems, too, cater to various sizes and specifications. For instance, the entranceway to the compound of terrace houses usually spans 6m-9m, while semi-detached or bungalows tend to have a wider opening.
Autogates come in various materials such as aluminium, steel, wrought iron, and even wood. Here are the types of gates that can be installed with automatic systems in Malaysia.
1. Swing gates
Swing gates are the simplest design that comprises two panels on hinges that open from either side. This type of gate is commonly used when the total width is under 8m, with each panel being half the width of the opening.
So, for example, a 6m-wide driveway will have a gate made up of two 3m-wide panels.
2. Bi-folding gates
Bi-folding gates come in a set of two panels with hinges that hold them together. Each set will fold towards opposite ends as it opens, and the space required for the gate to stack is the width of one panel.
As an example, a house with a 8m-wide opening will have four 2m-wide panels. The minimal size of each panel means this is ideal for houses with wide openings but limited space for the gate to fully open.
Typically, a bi-folding gate has wheels that glide on a metal track embedded in the ground. These days, however, there is the option of a trackless system that is more advanced – and also more expensive.
3. Sliding gate
A sliding gate is a great option for an opening that has ample space next to it. As it moves to the side as it opens, the space “hides” the gate; so, to maximise the opening, it is important to ensure the space is at least of equal width to that of the gate.
So, assuming the width of the gate is 5m, the width of the space on the side of it should also be 5m or more.
A sliding gate comes with wheels and a track to ensure it glides smoothly and straight. Depending on the house design, the autogate can be set to slide to the left or right.
Installing an autogate
The good news is that, these days, you don’t need to replace a gate entirely to make it automatic – if you are keen on keeping your existing gate, it can be automated with minor modifications.
The installation of an autogate system on an existing gate will, on average, cost between RM1,000 and RM1,500.
As the autogate system requires electricity for it to function, there must be a power outlet located nearby. If there isn’t, you would need to hire an electrician to lay down new cables for the autogate system.
Other points
Here are some additional components that come with an autogate:
- Gate remotes
Upon completion of installation and test runs, homeowners will be given two to four remote controls, depending on the package. Should you require more, you can ask the installer for duplicates at additional charges.
- Open and close switches
Some new houses already have dedicated wiring for autogates, including a switch inside the house to navigate the system. Do inform your installer to test the switch if your home is already equipped with this wiring.
As for houses without wiring, remember to ask your autogate professional about installing the switches, too.
This article originally appeared on Recommend.my – Malaysia’s #1 Home Improvement Services Platform, offering a safer and more convenient way to hire the best home improvement and home maintenance professionals. From flooring to interior design to air-conditioner servicing, get access to thousands of the best local contractors and professionals at your fingertips.