Common questions about automated swing gates

Answers to help you decide if swing gate automation suits your property.

Manual operation strains hinges and posts, accelerating misalignment. Sagging gates scrape ground and fail to close fully, leaving properties unsecured. Wind damage worsens over time, with repair costs exceeding £800 for hinge replacement and post realignment. Early automation prevents structural wear and maintains security.

Gates left open by wind expose driveways to unauthorised access and vehicle damage. Repeated slamming loosens hinges and cracks posts, requiring costly structural repairs. In exposed Chigwell locations, wind resistance operators prevent gate damage and maintain property security year-round.

Yes, swing gates require clear arc space inside or outside the driveway for full opening. Typical gates need 90-110 degrees of clearance. If space is tight, sliding or cantilever gates may suit better. A site survey confirms whether swing automation fits your driveway layout.

Most existing swing gates can be retrofitted with operators if hinges and posts are structurally sound. The professional assesses gate weight, hinge condition, and swing clearance during the site survey. If gates are misaligned or posts damaged, repairs are completed before operator installation.

Hydraulic operators use oil-filled rams for smooth, powerful movement, ideal for heavy wrought iron gates in exposed locations. Electromechanical operators use geared motors, quieter and lower maintenance but less suited to very heavy gates. The professional recommends the right type based on gate weight and wind exposure.

Master-slave wiring connects both operators to a single control panel. The master gate triggers first, followed by the slave gate with a programmed delay. This ensures both gates open and close in perfect timing without collision or misalignment.

No. Work is completed by independent local Electric Gate Installations in and around Chigwell. We review your request and arrange for a suitable Electric Gate Installation to contact you with a quote and availability.

Electric Gate Installation

Common Challenges

Manual swing gates heavy to push

Wind blows gates open constantly

Gates misalign over time

How We Help

Hydraulic operators for 400 kg gates

Wind resistance up to 60 mph

Homeowners with Existing Swing Gates

Estate Owners with Long Driveways

Property Developers Adding Automation

Electric Gate Installation

Wrought Iron & Metal Gates

Automated Sliding Gates

Aluminium Electric Gates

Wooden & Timber Electric Gates

Cantilever Gate Systems

Bespoke Gate Design & Manufacture

Smart Access Control & Intercoms

Gate Automation Retrofitting

Electric Gate Repair & Emergency Callouts

Preventative Maintenance & Servicing

About Chigwell Electric Gates

Our Mission & Values

Wrought Iron & Metal Gates

Automated Sliding Gates

Automated Swing Gates

Aluminium Electric Gates

Wooden & Timber Electric Gates

Cantilever Gate Systems

Bespoke Gate Design & Manufacture

Smart Access Control & Intercoms

Gate Automation Retrofitting

Payments

Business Hours

Paired synchronization for double gates

Remote control from car or phone

Obstacle detection halts movement