Common questions about cantilever gate systems

Answers to help you understand trackless sliding gates and what to expect from installation.

Repeated derailments bend the track, damage rollers, and strain the motor. Ignoring the problem leads to complete motor failure within 6-12 months, costing £800-£1,200 for emergency replacement. Cantilever systems eliminate derailment risk entirely by removing the ground track.

Incorrect counterweight causes gate sag, uneven sliding, and motor overload. The gate may drag on the ground or fail to close fully, requiring costly re-engineering. Professional counterbalance calculation during installation prevents these issues and ensures 10+ years of smooth operation.

Yes, cantilever systems cost 20-30% more due to counterbalance engineering and stronger foundation work. However, they eliminate ongoing track maintenance, derailment repairs, and motor strain, saving £200-£400 annually in upkeep costs.

Cantilever gates require more space behind the opening for the counterbalance beam, typically 1.5-2 times the gate width. They also need a stronger foundation than tracked gates and cost more upfront. However, they eliminate track blockages and derailment issues entirely.

A cantilever gate slides on rollers mounted to a horizontal beam extending behind the opening. A counterweight balances the gate's mass, allowing smooth sliding without a ground track. Guide wheels at the top prevent lateral sway during operation.

Yes, cantilever gates are ideal for gravel or uneven surfaces because they suspend 50-100 mm above ground. No track means no blockages from stones or debris, and the counterbalance compensates for gradients up to 1:10.

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

Track fills with gravel and debris

Gates derail on uneven or sloped ground

Counterbalance setup needs precision

How We Help

Trackless roller system for gravel

Counterbalance handles up to 800 kg

Homeowners with Gravel Driveways

Estate Owners Managing Wide Openings

Industrial Sites Replacing Tracked Gates

Electric Gate Installation

Wrought Iron & Metal Gates

Automated Sliding Gates

Automated Swing Gates

Aluminium Electric Gates

Wooden & Timber Electric Gates

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

Guide wheels stabilise wide spans

Smooth operation on sloped driveways