Virtually every private household has a fence, which is equipped with an entrance group. For the entrance to the yard, gates are installed, which can have different designs and differ in the method of operation. For a long time, swing structures were the most popular. Today, they are gradually fading into the background, giving way to sliding gates. Specialized companies are engaged in the installation of such gates, offering this service in a turnkey format.

Sliding gates: features of operation

The principle of operation of such structures is to move the main leaf sideways along a horizontal surface. The basic set for sliding gates, which is responsible for their operation, provides for the following:

• Panels. In sliding gates, they are present in the amount of one or two pieces. The panels are fixed to profiles or horizontal frames. Metal, wood or composites are used to manufacture these elements.
• Rails or hinges. This fittings for sliding gates are used to install and move the panels. Thanks to these elements, the gate is opened and closed. The location of the hinges or rails is directly the ground surface, or a specially equipped base.
• Movement mechanisms. When opening the gate, one panel acts as a support, the other slides along it. This is how the gate moves to the side. The structures can open completely or partially - depending on the task.
• Control system. The gate is opened or closed using a special mechanism, which can be automatic or mechanical. The automatic sliding gate system allows you to turn on the electric motor to set the structure in motion and other sensors. In addition, sliding gates include safety sensors in their system. These most often include photocells, thanks to which you can detect obstacles in the path of the gate, stopping the movement of the leaf. Other sensors used in such cases respond to physical contact with the obstacle.

What is needed to install a sliding gate

The installation process involves several stages that have a certain sequence. For a long service life and maximum quality of the structure, it is extremely important to pay attention to the strength of the base, the creation of a reliable foundation for the sliding gate and the correct installation of the gate.

The sequence of installation work is as follows:

• Preparation of the base for the gate. It is important that the foundation is strong and can withstand the load. Concrete is best suited for this purpose, into which a channel is poured in the process, which will act as guides for the gate.
• Installation of support posts. They are located on both sides of the entrance and must be strictly vertical for even installation of the gate.
• Welding of the gate frame. It consists of beams, vertical posts and supports for the gate, diagonal braces.
• Hanging the gate leaves. They are fixed to the guide rail using two rollers. The upper one supports the leaf in a vertical position, and the lower one allows you to direct movement.
• Installation of the final roller system for the gate and catchers. These elements will provide protection against gate skewing during operation.

If necessary, automation is installed. Most often, this is an electric drive for sliding gates, a motor, a gearbox, photocells, etc. After that, the cantilever gate must be adjusted to the required tasks. Sliding gates are adjusted before they are put into operation.

Advantages of installing sliding gates

Despite the somewhat higher cost of such structures compared to classic sliding ones, the sliding option is becoming more and more popular with our customers. This can be explained by a number of advantages of metal sliding gates, for example:

• easy operation;
• reliability of the design of the cantilever gate system;
• wide functionality;
• simple maintenance of sliding gates;
• possibility of execution in any design;
• potential for installation of automation;

space saving.
Only one electric drive for the gate is required for control - unlike the swinging design. The gate opens easily even during strong winds, and during heavy snowfalls, clearing the yard is not required to open it.