Before we start
- Gate type, width, height and approximate weight — or photos if you are unsure.
- Which side has space for a motor and whether the ground is level.
- Where you want controls: remote, mobile, keypad, intercom or access control.
- Nearest power point and whether the gate is on a slope.
The installation process
- 1
Site assessment
1 visit
The gate and its surroundings decide the operator type, so this comes first.
- Sliding, swing or barrier — based on available space, driveway slope and traffic.
- Gate weight, condition of hinges, rollers and track; worn mechanics must be fixed before motorising.
- Pillar strength and clearances; ground level for rails and foundation.
- 2
Operator and accessories selection
1–2 days
The motor is rated for the gate's weight and the number of daily cycles, with margin.
- Sliding gates: rack-and-pinion motors sized to gate weight.
- Swing gates: articulated or underground arms depending on pillar layout.
- Photocells, safety edges, flashing lamp, receiver, remotes and optional battery backup.
- 3
Foundation and cabling
1 day (plus curing)
The motor needs a firm base, and cables are laid before everything is made good.
- Concrete foundation plate for the motor, levelled and allowed to cure.
- Armoured, conduit-protected cable for power and control, buried to a safe depth.
- Separate earthing for the motor and gate.
- 4
Motor and rack installation
1 day
The operator is fixed and aligned to the gate so movement is smooth and quiet.
- Rack fixed along the gate with correct pinion clearance.
- End-stops set; gate moved by hand to confirm free travel before power is applied.
- 5
Safety devices
Half a day
Safety is not optional — a moving gate can injure people and damage vehicles.
- Photocells across the opening so the gate stops and reverses if something is in the way.
- Safety edges on closing edges and a visible flashing lamp.
- Manual release so the gate can be opened during a power cut.
- 6
Control setup and programming
Half a day
Travel limits, force and speed are programmed, then your access methods are paired.
- Auto-close timer, soft start/stop and obstruction sensitivity set.
- Remotes, mobile control, keypad or integration with intercom, access control or smart home.
- 7
Testing and handover
1 hour
The system is cycled repeatedly and tested with obstructions before you take over.
- Obstruction, photocell, manual release and power-cut behaviour all tested.
- You are shown the manual release, remote pairing and basic troubleshooting.
After installation
- Lubricate rollers and hinges and keep the track free of stones and debris.
- Wipe photocell lenses periodically so they do not false-trigger.
- Test the manual release and safety reversal every few months.
- Service annually, or sooner on gates used heavily.
Frequently asked questions
Can my existing gate be automated?
Usually yes, if it is straight, balanced and moves freely by hand. Badly worn gates need repair first.
What happens in a power cut?
Every installation has a manual release. Battery backup is available for sites that need the gate to keep working.
Sliding or swing — which is better?
Sliding suits tight roads or driveways with side space; swing suits level ground with room inside the gate. The survey decides.
Is it safe for children and pets?
With photocells, safety edges and correctly set force, yes. We test obstruction response before handover.
Timings are typical ranges. Your site survey confirms the actual schedule. See our Gate Automation solutions