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

 🎄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

“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

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

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 🦃🎄🎅🏻

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]

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?

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]

2nd Annual Veterans Day Gate Giveaway!

We are excited to announce our 2nd Annual Veterans Day Gate Giveaway this year. We will be giving a special veteran within our community a driveaway gate, fabricated by our team and a new gate operator system donated by our friends at Liftmaster and Access Distribution Center. This is just a small token of our appreciation and thanks to all the special veterans who have served our county.

Please see below for the terms and conditions:

The entry window will close Thursday, September 29, 2022 at 11:59p CDT. Only one entry per email address. Send nominations to [email protected] with the subject line “Nomination.” Please include your veteran’s name, address, and contact info (as well as your own.)

Value of Prize – The prize value will be approximately $12,000 depending on the type and size of gate system the winner requires. We will be providing a free year of QSA (quarterly service agreement) gate maintenance after the installation is complete, as well as a one-year warranty on gate labor and any additional warranties associated with the products given.

Eligibility – The nominee must be a United States veteran to be eligible to win. Candidates must be the owner of the property and live in Bay or Walton County. The site must be solar-compatible and gate-ready.

Selection Process – 5 finalists will be chosen via documented random process and treated to a dinner with our company on Friday, October 7th. All finalists that meet the criteria will be reviewed to ensure qualification in the days up to October 7th and a final winner will be selected at dinner. The goal is to have the gate up and running (weather permitting) on Veterans Day—November 11, 2022.

Property disqualification – The property must be located in one of the counties described above and the candidate must be the homeowner. The site must be solar compatible and have a “gate-ready” driveway.

Other – Winner agrees to allow Quality Gates to use their story (if provided though this is not mandatory,) images, and video without compensation or restrictions. The Quality Gates’ Veterans Day Gate Giveaway is a one-time gift. It does not include financial assistance for future replacement, repairs, maintenance, or operating costs. Depending on the actual work performed, the part may be covered by a manufacturer’s warranty or our one-year warranty on labor. No other warranties or guarantees apply.

No purchase is required to enter.

NEW: QGO Powder Coating in Panama City

Powder Coating in Panama City

At Quality Gates, we powder coat more than just gates! As of 2021, we’re proud to announce we’ve launched our premier powder coating service at our shop in Panama City, Fl. We are open for business and looking for medium to large powder coating projects in the Panama City area.

This exciting development has been a long time coming for our company. For those of you who don’t know, Quality Gates began as just two guys in a pickup truck back in 2007 and has grown exponentially over the years. We are so grateful for all our wonderful clients!

Our Powder Coating Team at Quality Gates

Chuck Wyzard, Manager of Powder Coating at QG. Powder Coating in Panama City

Our brand new powder coating department is led by Mr. Chuck Wyzard, our Powder Coating Manager, and our on-site powder coater, Brandon Geldert. In addition to Brandon, we also have several other team members cross-trained on powder coating to help out where needed. Michael Johnson, Quality Gates veteran (and US veteran!) is among the powder coaters we have on our staff and we are actively working to build our internal powder coating team!

About Our Powder Shop in Panama City

We stock three colors in our Panama City powder coating shop–white, black, and oil-rubbed bronze but we also provide color-matching and can obtain custom colors, from something muted and conservative like grey or off-white to bright oranges, purples, greens… you name it! We can powder anything from pizza racks to large industrial parts.

How to Request a Quote

Reach out! Give our office a call at 850 271-3617 or visit our website to request a quote today! If you’re already one of our wonderful customers, please consider leaving us an online review about your experience with us!

Quality Gates | Access Control Applications

At Quality Gates, we offer access control for most applications, including pedestrian gates, vehicular gates, exit doors, and more. We’ve compiled a product list for you here to describe the kinds of access control we provide at Quality Gates, as well as our recommended access control applications and favorite brands!

Basic Keypad

Keypads are ideal for any kind of gated entry–from residential applications to larger community and industrial sites, keypads are simple, tried-and-true methods for access control. Most notably used by Quality Gates for pedestrian gate access control and vehicular gate access control, keypads are available in wireless and hard-wired connections. They are typically compatible with solar as well as electrical applications and are available in standalone or tied into an access control system by way of Wiegand connection. This allows easy tracking of who comes in and out and which codes are used. Keypads work great for beach access gates and pool gates, as well.

Applications we recommend:

  • Pedestrian Gates (beach access gates, pool gates, residential pedestrian gates,)
  • Residential and Community Vehicular Gate Access
  • Secure facilities

Brands we love!

  • Essex, Linear, DoorKing, LiftMaster, Assa Abloy

Maglocks as a Locking Mechanism

Maglocks are great additions to pedestrian gates and in some cases vehicular gates to keep them closed tightly. A standard size maglock that Quality Gates would typically use on a gate is a 1200lb maglock–this means the resistance is equal to 1200lb. This works well for many breezy coastal sites or tropical locations. Quality Gates uses self-closing hinges on our pedestrian gates to ensure they close behind each guest further enhancing the security of your application.

Applications we recommend:

  • Pedestrian gates that require locks or tropical, breezy locations.
  • Vehicular swing gates

Brands we love!

  • Secolarm, Assa Abloy, DoorKing, Liftmaster, Locinox, Alarm Controls

Request to Exit Devices for Pedestrian Exit

Request to Exit (REX) buttons and Request to Exit hands-free devices are easy-to-use and typically used on access-controlled pedestrian gates or doors. Available in button-style (touch to exit) and hands-free styles (wave to exit), these make exiting a secure facility a breeze. These are also used with solenoid locks (door strikes) and include panic bar-style exit devices as well as motion-detection devices to automatically unlock a door upon approach.

Applications we recommend:

  • Access-controlled pedestrian gates (beach access gates, hotel pool gates, etc)
  • Access-controlled exit door for secure facilities

Brands we love!

  • Secolarm, Essex, Assa Abloy, Honeywell, Alarm Controls, Enforcer

Telephone Entry Systems for Large Communities and More

For larger communities (either residential or industrial), a telephone entry system can make more sense for guests and those who are not authorized to be on the property. These devices allow visitors to call in from the entrance gate and speak to someone for entry. There are many types ranging from very basic call boxes to fancy systems with video.

Applications we recommend

  • Apartment building gates
  • Residential gated communities

Brands we love!

  • DoorKing, Elika, Cell Gate, Maximum Controls, LiftMaster

Card Reader/Fob Reader for Access Control

Card/fob readers (HID and/or AWID) are popular choices for basic access control. Another great option for apartment complexes and larger community applications, card readers can be a great way to grant gate or door access to permanent residents in a community or employees in a secure facility. Like keypads, these devices can be tied into a database where the credentials for each card-holder or fob-holder can be tracked for better security.

Applications we recommend

  • Residential communities
  • Secure facilities

Brands we love!

  • DoorKing, Essex, LiftMaster, Linear

Are you in the market for an access control system? Visit our website to request a quote today! If you’re already one of our wonderful customers, please consider leaving us an online review about your experience with us!