Time for a little spring cleaning?

The biggest reasons why gates need springtime maintenance

Winter can be tough on automated gates. Cold temperatures, frost, and moisture make it easier for rust and corrosion to develop, especially on metal components. Thankfully, you generally have a lot of time to address it before it develops into a major issue, but it’s still worth checking for on a regular basis – as ever, preventative care is always the best approach.

Dirt and debris build-up is another common issue. Leaves, mud, and grit can accumulate in the gate’s track or around its moving parts, causing it to slow down or even stop working altogether. A gate that doesn’t seem to open or close fully is more than an inconvenience – it’s also a security risk. Blockages can put unnecessary strain on the gate’s motor, leading to avoidable wear and tear.

Electrical components can also suffer during winter. One of the main issues is that sensors may become misaligned or blocked by dirt, which can cause the gates to fail to open or close properly for no apparent reason. (It’s a relatively common factor in lots of engineer callouts, so it’s a good idea to check before you pick up the phone!)

The top 4 spring cleaning jobs to tackle first

Clearing debris needs to be one of your first tasks. Over the colder months, leaves, twigs, and other dirt can gather around the gate’s base, in its tracks, or near its hinges. These obstructions can cause misalignment or prevent smooth movement. A stiff brush and a little elbow grease will clear the way for a fully functional system. If you’ve noticed your gate slowing down or juddering when in use, there’s a good chance that built-up debris is to blame.

Lubrication of moving parts is up next. Regular lubrication prevents stiffness and excessive wear. Hinges, rollers, chains, and motors should all be treated with a suitable lubricant to reduce friction. (If you need any advice on choosing the best option, one of our team may be able to advise.)

Washing and treating surfaces is also important, helping to remove dirt and grime. Spring is also a good time to check for any peeling paint, cracks, or fading stains, so that your gate looks shipshape in time for spring and summer.

Checking electrical components is another important step, but it’s generally not something you can do without the assistance of an expert. The control panel, wiring, and safety sensors ideally should all be professionally inspected for damage or wear. If your gate has been behaving unpredictably – such as opening and closing at random – it could be down to electrical damage that needs immediate attention.

In fact, speaking of issues which need professional input, we’d generally suggest bringing in an expert if you’re dealing with any of the following:

• Slow or unresponsive gates
• Unusual noises
• Electrical faults
• Sensor malfunctions

In general, they’re not to be attempted without specialist knowledge and tools. In the best case scenario, you could simply end up making the problem worse – and in the worst case, you may end up making it actively dangerous.

If you ever need any assistance or advice in any aspect of maintaining your gate – up to and including arranging preventative maintenance visits – don’t hesitate to get in touch with our team here at Gate Auto! With over 30 years of experience, our team of knowledgeable gate experts is always available to help diagnose and repair any underlying issues. Simply give us a call at 01282 677300 – we’re always happy to assist.