Author: Chris

We’re An Open Gate! 🙋 Ask Us Anything! | Frequently Asked Questions

Posted on by Chris

While you’re able to review some of our Frequently Asked Questions on our website (copied below), we’re positive that there are more out there! This is the time to ask them! Ask us anything related to our business, products, services, general questions, etc. We’re an “open gate”! (Pun intended.)

 

  • What is a Gate Opener?
    • A gate Opener is an electronic device that, when activated, can open and close your driveway gate. Gate Openers can be activated in a number of ways, including codes, proximity cards, intercoms, timers, phone apps, bar-code scanners, pushbuttons, motion detection, and more.

 

  • Do you install and repair Mighty Mule gate openers?
    • Mighty Mule gate openers are sold as DIY “Do-It-Yourself” kits intended to be installed by end users. We prefer to install gate opener equipment that has a minimum 3-year warranty, is field serviceable, and is rated for continuous daily use.

 

  • Can I buy a LiftMaster gate opener to install myself?
    • LiftMaster, and many other gate openers, are to be installed by trained gate system technicians only. We have numerous Certified System Designers and Certified Installers on staff who are ready to inspect your site for a free recommendation.

 

  • How much does it cost to install an automatic gate opener?
    • We have installed custom gate systems that range anywhere from a few thousand dollars to tens of thousands of dollars. It is important to note, we only use the highest quality products, and all our gate systems are custom designed to meet your needs.

 

  • What is the best automatic gate opener?
    • There are several high-quality gate openers available, and we find that it varies for each situation. The best automatic gate opener for you is specific to your site. There are a few brands that we think highly of, and a free site inspection by one of our Certified Automated Gate System Designers will enable us to make a recommendation.

 

  • Can any gate be converted to an electronic or automatic gate?
    • For a gate to be automated, it must be structurally sound, move freely, and meet ASTM F-2200 standards for safety. Sometimes, gates can be converted, and other times they need to be replaced with a complete custom automatic gate system.

 

  • Do you install solar powered electric gates?
    • Yes. Solar powered automatic gates are common and very reliable. Solar powered gate systems are especially popular because there is a federal solar tax credit. Also known as the investment tax credit (ITC), this credit allows you to deduct 30% of the cost of installing a solar energy system from your federal taxes.

 

For More Information Call Quality Gates And Openers at 850-271-3617

✨Want The Gate Of Your Dreams?✨ Let Us Create It For You !

Posted on by Chris

We never fabricate our services at Quality Gates And Openers because we have a strong bond with our clients! (Puns intended.)

Schedule your appointment with our creative team today! Let us sketch out your custom-designed dream gate and then build it to spec! From design to fabrication, we’ll create a unique piece of aluminum art in-house at our shop where the end products can be powdered coated for added aesthetic and protection.

 

Our team offers years of design, fabrication, and welding experience as we create traditional and unique gate designs for both commercial and residential customers in compliance with Florida’s strict building code and SREF requirements. Engineered specifically for your property and specific needs, we offer access solutions for any need you may have – driveway gates, access gates, beach/pool access gates, car garage gates, and much more.

 

Made of high-quality constructed aluminum, our gates are strong and durable yet lightweight and will not rust. Creating the perfectly secure focal point for your property, aluminum is also reasonably priced, low maintenance, and weather-resistant offering an attractive alternative to traditional gates in the long term.

 

 

It’s A Full-On Sprint To Outdoor 🎄 Christmas 🎀 Decorating: Automated Gate Edition

Posted on by Chris

 🎄Merry Christmas & Happy Holidays! 🎀

 

With the Thanksgiving weekend behind us, it’s a full-on sprint to Christmas! With an array of decorating decor from bows to wreaths to garlands and lights, planning a beautiful outdoor Christmas display takes a lot of planning. And, that planning starts with your gate as your guests enter through your magical wonderland.

Even the most experienced holiday decorators could use some tips and tricks along the way…

  1. Be sure to inspect the area you’ll be decorating for obstacles such as low tree limbs, debris around the gate or opener, landscape contours, plus the location of your driveway and walkways in conjunction with your gate.
  2. Decide what type of decorations you’ll use and 
  3. When you’re ready to place the decorations, consider sketching out the idea in your head on a piece of paper or on your tablet along with measurements.
  4. To add lighting or not to add lighting, that is the question. If you choose lighting, be sure to check if the cords will be clipped or in the way when the gate opens/closes.
  5. If you have a swing gate and would like to setup a delay so as not to entangle any decorations in your gate, please give us a call at 850-271-3617.

We hope our tips to decorate your gate are helpful! After all, even the most experienced decorators can use some tips and tricks along the way, right? 

And, in the holiday spirit, we’d love to see YOUR gate decorations! Email us HERE with your photos below and we’ll share our favorites on social media! Brownie points if you’re our customer!

 

Happy Thanksgiving from Quality Gates And Openers

Posted on by Chris

“As we express our gratitude, we must never forget that the highest appreciation is not to utter words but to live by them.”  {John F. Kennedy}
🦃 With these words in our hearts, we are thankful for what we have, for what we’re able to give, and for our family and friends. We wish you all a Happy Thanksgiving!

The Modern Benefits of Driveway Security Cameras

Posted on by Chris

Check out the New Advancements in

Gate Protection Technology!

The most cautious homeowners possess a Driveway Security Camera that shows you a view from the front door or into the backyard with the ability to ensure the well-being of their home, property, and family. However, with the many advancements in technology along with the lower cost of cameras and hardware, today’s driveway security cameras utilize a variety of abilities, for instance:

☑️ Weatherproof
  • To handle harsh weather, hot or cold, rain or shine;
☑️ Long-Range Night Vision
  • Lenses with the ability to capture close-up images to record license plates;
☑️ License Plate Recognition
  • Available on higher-end cameras;
☑️ Recording Events
  • Not only in real-time but motion-activated;
☑️ Notifications & Recordings
  • Sent to your email, phone, or other mobile devices;
☑️ Tripwire, or Trigger, System
  • Enabling you to set a specific point or size of an object to start recording;
☑️ No Server Required

And so much more!

 

Quality Gates And Openers offers all the latest video technology to protect you, your home and your business. Learn more at www.qualitygatesandopeners.com or Call Us Today at 850-271-3617 for more information on Driveway Security Camera Installation, Upgrade, and Maintenance.

 

For More Information Call Quality Gates And Openers at 850-271-3617

We Have Lift-off! Space-Saving Vertical Lift (Vertical Pivot) Gates

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Using a Vertical Lift Gate (or Vertical Pivot) Gate offers considerable space-saving advantages compared to a more common sliding gate by using the same motion as a railroad arm. The Vertical Lift (Vertical Pivot) Gate is an adaptable gate system for common access points where designers are able to work around curbs, road elevation, contour changes, drainage swales, and more to conform to limited space availability.

In production for over 40 years, the key advantages of this gate are the following:

  • Much faster open/close time to process vehicles.
  • Reduced areas pedestrians can be injured.
  • Reduced issues with problematic functionality.
  • Increased security features.
  • Assuredly lower cost of ownership.

Slide and swing gates are attached to fence lines and support posts which in turn causes damage to more than just the gate. However, Vertical Lift (Vertical Pivot) Gates are bolted to the operator and designed for only the gate to be damaged which lends itself to a quick repair back to the original quality before impact.

These advantageous gates are also highly compatible with most access control systems as well as emergency entry devices used by first responders.

If you would like to know more about Vertical Lift Gates (or Vertical Pivot Gates) Call Quality Gates And Openers today at 850-271-3617 for more information.

Disclaimer: Although this specific gate was not installed by Quality Gates & Openers, they have performed service on it.

 

For More Information Call Quality Gates And Openers at 850-271-3617

Gate Tips: Decorating For The Holidays 🦃🎄🎅🏻

Posted on by Chris

With the holidays just around the corner, it’s that time of year to pull those beautiful decorations out of the attic and hang them around your property, even on your automated gate and fencing. Occasionally, this can cause a few issues, but knowing these do’s and don’t’s will help you have a less stressful time decorating during the holiday season:

 

  • Don’t block your photo-eye.

    • For all automated gates up to code and in compliance with the UL-325 code, your gate will have what is called a “photo eye”. It’s a device that allows the gate to stay open when the photo eye sensor is activated. And, if the photo eye is obstructed by a wreath or lights on your gate, it will cause the gate to “see” an obstacle and stay open until the issue is rectified.

 

  • Do check/replace batteries.

    • Regardless of whether your gate is AC powered, we always suggest checking the automated gate opener’s battery. Even if it’s brand new, it’s not unheard of to be a battery failure. Consider purchasing a voltmeter from your local hardware store or give us a call Quality Gates And Openers for a courtesy inspection.

 

  • Don’t leave your lights on.

    • While neighbors and passersby truly enjoy the festivity of Christmas lights, keep in mind that your power bill may be temporarily raised during the holiday season. Consider putting the lights on a timer to lessen the burden on your pocketbook.

 

  • Do clear debris/vegetation.

    • Check in and around your automated gate system for debris and vegetation that may inadvertently hinder the use of your gate. Many times during this time of year, you’ll want to keep an eye out for falling leaves. As it gets colder, freezing rain and snow can also cause obstructions. You may consider using Rain-X on your photo eye for weather-related issues.

 

And as always, if you have questions or concerns during this holiday season, contact Quality Gates And Openers immediately!

 

American Fence Association | Gate Automation Technical School [GATS]

Posted on by Chris

Quality Gates And Openers is proud to have two members of our amazing team, Michael Johnson and Bryce Hall, representing us at the American Fence Association’s Gate Automation Technician School this week in Arlington, Texas, continuing their education in preparation for the Gate Automation Technician Certification Examination administered by the Accreditation & Certification Institute. Recognized as the premier school for training safe and professional automated gate technicians, our installers are learning everything from the initial automated gate design to its final installation along with associated hazards, safety standards, and many other critical key points. At the conclusion of their classes, they’ll have the opportunity to complete the examination.

We wish them both well in their studies and know that we’re behind you all the way! 🎓

*Please note: some images are shared from the AFA Facebook page; others by our staff on-site.

Buying A New Home With An Automated Gate?

Posted on by Chris

Luxury Automated Gates by Quality Gates And Openers

Don’t Forget To Ask These Questions!

 

As you’re searching for a new home, you’ll find that many previous homeowners have found an automated gate system is beneficial – convenient, reliable, and secure. So, when you’re viewing the home with the realtor, be sure to ask these additional questions regarding the functions and condition of the automated gate:

 

Does the gate swing, slide or raise?

If the property you’re looking to purchase has an automated gate, the first thing should be to determine if it swings, slides or raises to open and close. Swing gates tend to be quieter and can have fewer moving parts which may enable you to save money on future maintenance. Slide gates can take up less space and tend to have no gaps under them. This may be an option for those with pets and are worried about potential venturing out of the yard. A vertical pivot gate opens and closes by raising up such as a railroad crossing arm offering considerable space-saving advantages.

 

What is the gate made out of?

Weathering and upkeep are dependent on the gate’s material – metal or wood. Metal gates require minimal upkeep and are very easy to maintain. Aluminum is a naturally rust-resistant material while iron and steel gates are finished with a powder coating to ensure they don’t peel or fade. Metal gates typically don’t give a lot of privacy as they allow the ability to view the property between the slats. Wood gates do create a wonderful sense of privacy and are able to withstand harsh weather conditions and effectively block the wind. However, they will need to be regularly re-stained, re-painted, or treated with a type of protective coating.

 

How is the gate powered?

Automated gates are powered in multiple ways such as alternating current (connected to the property’s power source) or solar-powered (assists during a power outage). Newer model openers can also come with battery back-up.

 

Are there any built-in safety features?

Many gates systems include a variety of built-in safety mechanisms: reversing sensors, guards, alarms, and even siren operated sensors. These beneficial features assist in preventing injuries and damage to your property. However, if not, you’ll be able to easily have them purchased and retrofitted to the existing system.

 

Is the gate still under warranty?

If the gate system is still under warranty, it will be a considerable advantage. This way if there is a manufacturing defect, the warranty will cover the repair and/or replacement costs. Also, it’s possible the warranty will protect against accidental damage as well.

 

Is the gate in need of any repairs?

 

And, last but not least, be sure to check the gate for visible damage: dents, cracks, scratches, splits, rust, etc. You want to ensure everything is in good working order. A slow, unresponsive gate will move irregularly against the track, drag against the ground or stop in the wrong position. Severe damage may require replacing the entire automated gate system and could be costly.

 

Once You’ve Purchased The Property,

Schedule A Courtesy Inspection Today!

Learn More About The Quality Difference At

Call 850-271-3617 or Email [email protected]