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here’s no shortage of DIY jobs you can easily complete at home. Screwing in a lightbulb, fixing the toilet or installing a shelf are all pretty easy as long as you’ve got some initiative, a can-do attitude and maybe a bit of help from the internet. Unfortunately, installing your gate automation kit is one of those jobs that definitely doesn’t fit into that category. Even if you’ve got significant DIY experience under your belt, it’s always best to consult an expert when it comes to electric gate kits. Here are some of the key reasons why!
The complex equipment and in-depth skills required
While all of our products here at Gate Auto have been designed to be simple to use, that doesn’t necessarily mean that all of them are simple to install. Most of the time, it’s a highly complex construction project that involves digging, concrete mixing and pouring, as well as a fair amount of heavy lifting. Our underground gate automation kits are a prime example of jobs that require digging expertise, and they’re jobs that will be highly challenging for anyone without the requisite experience and tools.
Another obstacle is that these jobs are usually extremely difficult when working alone – installations often require a fair amount of manpower and teamwork. When underground motors are fitted, for example, the task requires gates to be lifted off their hinges. In addition to construction skills, installation jobs also require knowledge and experience of other specialist disciplines, as it involves electrical wiring, general electrics and welding, too. The theory sounds simple, but the execution isn’t by any means!
Specialist knowledge and expertise
Consulting an expert can also make life easier for you in ways you might not have necessarily anticipated. With our specialist knowledge, our team can provide advice in the initial stages about whether or not your chosen gate type is really right for you. We might recommend a gate with articulated arms as opposed to an underground gate kit, for example, which may well be better suited to your available space or intended use. Theoretically, this can save you from an unfortunate realisation halfway through an attempted DIY installation! We can also advise on any additional accessories like remotes and spares, or other technology which will effectively complement your gate automation kit, making your life simpler, easier and more convenient.
On a similar note, when it comes to the installation itself, our engineers will also know the best way to assess your drive and build a solution around it. If your gate requires cabling, but you don’t want your drive to be dug up so it can be installed, we can draw on our years of experience to find an alternative solution. Our experts are also able to better anticipate any issues that might arise with the installation and take steps to avoid them, or suggest and implement solutions for any that crop up.
Knowledge of essential safety issues and regulations
Before any installation can get started in earnest, the very first step is always to conduct an extensive risk assessment, to ensure that the installation is safe and up to current health and safety standards. This is a task that can’t be carried out by the layman, as it requires a qualified person with extensive knowledge of the relevant regulations. These regulations include the Machinery Directive. Once any gate becomes automated, it is officially classed as a machine according to the definitions laid out in the Directive, and therefore subject to its regulations.
In addition to this, professional gate automation experts are also well versed in all other safety requirements your gate legally needs to meet, so that it’s safe for people to operate and move around. These encompass electrical issues, any rules to do with weight bearing, emergency access and stops, and any other power operator requirements – including how it might relate to your existing electrical systems.
One aspect of safety regulations surrounding automated gates dictates that if the gate is involved in an injury, then at least some responsibility lies with the installer, as they are responsible for the safety systems that are designed to prevent such injuries or accidents. Therefore, if a homeowner was to incorrectly install a gate automation kit (even if they were capable of doing it alone), then it could theoretically open them up to legal liability. However, it’s not something you have to worry about when taking advantage of the services we offer here at Gate Auto – and above all, we’re here to help!
We have over 30 years in supplying and fitting high-quality gate automation, we provide a wide range of electric gate kits and garage door openers alongside an array of accessories to ensure you get the most out of your investment. Feel free to browse them right here on our site, or give us a call on 01282 677300!
