Automated Driveway Gates

Hi folks, I am a long time lurker but first time poster so please be kind.....

I have just been asked to quote a client for solid wooden driveway gates that are 1.8 m high and span 3 metres (so two gates at circa 1.4 metres). The client has also asked that I quote him for installing an automation system with key fobs so they can simply operate it from the car. Building the gate is no issue as I have done hundreds but this is the first time I have been asked to make one automatic.

Having just come off google the range of systems available is huge and there is quite a price difference between models leaving me a bit unsure of what is the best to choose. My question is do any of you guys have experience with automation systems and if so what models do you recommend? Also what problems am I likely to encounter in installing such a system. All the electrical work will be carried out by a sparky so not to many issues there but dont want to quote to small and end up with a nightmare job that takes too long.

I have attached a picture and the gate is to be installed flush with front edge of the house

Any help is greatly appreciated

Gary

Replies

PRO

Richard Gadsby March 31, 2015 at 9:48pm

The only advise is to offer whatever your local place sells as they will be able to supply spares and advice.
James Brett March 31, 2015 at 10:01pm

The frog stuff is pretty good. Make sure you research exactly what you need for the bases. I would estimate close to £1000 to install the bases in the ground, run cables and ducting. A gate automation company might be worth a little chat for the supply of the bases and set up. They will probably be able to tell you what bases you need around them.
PRO

Richard Gadsby March 31, 2015 at 10:03pm

Looking again at the picture would a single gate opening flush with the house be better?
- James Brett > Richard Gadsby March 31, 2015 at 10:08pm
  
  Looking at the picture I did think that it maybe a better option. Also cheaper for groundwork
Gary Pelc March 31, 2015 at 10:18pm

Thanks guys. Yes I think a chat with a local gate specialist might be the best option.

Installing a single gate does sound like a far better option and as James says will greatly reduce the groundworks needing done and simpler/cheaper to install
David Benson March 31, 2015 at 11:51pm

looking where the wheel tracks are it will be very tight by the time you get the posts in
- Gary Pelc > David Benson March 31, 2015 at 11:59pm
  
  All the vegetation and the smaller wall than can be seen on the right of the picture is going to be removed which will extend the width of the drive by about 50 - 60 cm which should leave enough room to get the car down the drive and still have substantial gate posts.
  
  Good point and well spotted though.
  - PRO
    
    Richard Gadsby > Gary Pelc April 1, 2015 at 12:10am
    
    You could put the post in front of the house in that space on the house front left corner gaining a bit more space again? I mean right front of house
    - Gary Pelc > Richard Gadsby April 1, 2015 at 12:20am
      
      Thanks for that, I like that idea. I will run it past him tomorrow and see what he says.