Author: qualitygates

Understanding the Powder Coating Process: A Step-By-Step Guide

Posted on by qualitygates

 

Understanding the Powder Coating Process A Step-By-Step Guide

Powder coating is a popular method for protecting and enhancing metal surfaces, offering a durable, long-lasting finish that resists corrosion and wear. Whether you’re coating a gate, furniture, or automotive parts, understanding the steps involved can help you appreciate why this process stands out from traditional paint.

From cleaning and preparing the surface to applying the powder with an electrostatic gun and curing it in an oven, each stage plays a vital role in achieving a high-quality finish. This step-by-step guide will walk you through the powder coating process, explaining how it works and why it’s an excellent choice for a variety of metal projects, offering both aesthetic appeal and protection.

Surface Preparation

Before applying powder coating to your gate, the surface must be meticulously cleaned and prepped for the best results. This process typically includes sandblasting or chemical cleaning to eliminate rust, old paint, and any other contaminants that could hinder adhesion. By removing these imperfections, the powder coating will bond more effectively to the metal, allowing for a smooth and durable finish.

Proper preparation allows for a more polished appearance and helps extend the longevity of the coating, protecting your gate from corrosion and wear. Without thorough surface preparation, the coating may not adhere evenly, leading to poor coverage or flaking over time. Investing time in this cleaning and prepping stage is key to achieving a high-quality powder coated finish.

Electrostatic Application

The process of electrostatic application in powder coating begins by using a specialized gun that sprays dry powder onto the surface. As the powder particles pass through the gun, they become electrically charged, allowing them to cling to the metal surface. This creates an even layer that is perfectly suited for curing.

The power of powder coating lies in its ability to produce a consistent, high-quality finish that outperforms traditional paint. Unlike liquid paint, which can drip or form uneven layers, the electrostatic charge helps the powder coat spread uniformly across the surface. This leads to a smooth, durable, and attractive finish, offering superior protection against wear, corrosion, and weathering. The precision of this method contributes to the professional appearance and long-lasting durability of the coated item.

Curing

Once the powder is applied to the metal surface, the coated object is transferred to an oven for the curing process. Inside the oven, the powder melts and flows, creating a smooth, hardened layer as it cools. This process allows the powder to bond effectively with the metal, resulting in a long-lasting, corrosion-resistant, and weatherproof finish.

The temperature and duration of curing can vary based on the size and type of the gate or metal object. Larger or thicker gates may require higher temperatures or longer times in the oven, while smaller objects may cure more quickly. Properly adjusting the curing time and temperature is essential for achieving a flawless finish that enhances both the appearance and durability of metal gates and other coated items.

Powder Coating Services at Quality Gates and Openers

Powder coating is an excellent way to protect and beautify your metal gates or other objects, offering a durable, corrosion-resistant finish that stands the test of time. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can better understand how this process works and why it delivers such impressive results.

If you’re looking for a reliable powder coating service for your gate or metal items, we’re here to help. Contact us today to learn more about our professional powder coating services and how we can give your metal objects a long-lasting, high-quality finish.

 

Exploring the Best Access Control Systems for Your Gate

Posted on by qualitygates

Exploring the Best Access Control Systems for Your Gate

Choosing the right access control system for your gate can significantly enhance security and convenience. From keypads and card readers to advanced facial recognition and biometric systems, each option offers unique benefits tailored to different needs.

In this blog, we’ll delve into the most effective access control systems available today, discussing their features, advantages, and ideal applications. Whether you’re securing a residential property, a commercial facility, or a high-security area like a lab or military site, understanding these systems will help you make an informed decision.

Join us as we explore the best options to keep your property safe and accessible.

Keypads

One of the most common access control systems is the keypad, and for good reason. Keypads are versatile, suitable for both residential and commercial gates. They offer a simple yet effective method to secure entry points.

Users can easily set a passcode to any preferred number sequence, allowing for personalized security. If the code becomes compromised, it can be quickly and conveniently changed, maintaining the integrity of the system.

Keypads eliminate the need for physical keys, reducing the risk of unauthorized duplication. Their user-friendly design and straightforward functionality make them a popular choice for those seeking reliable gate security without the hassle of traditional lock and key mechanisms.

It is important to note that the primary drawback of using codes is they have “legs”, meaning they get around quickly.  It is very easy to share codes verbally or through text, and they are even sometimes written on the keypad themselves.  If a keypad is going to be used, it is important to change the code frequently.

Card Readers

Another common access control system is the card reader, widely used in commercial settings. Card readers offer a seamless way to control access by embedding the code within the user’s ID card. Employees can easily swipe their cards to gain entry, streamlining the process.

This system is particularly effective for improving security and efficiency in business entrances, as it eliminates the need for remembering codes or carrying multiple keys. Additionally, access permissions can be managed and updated remotely, allowing for quick adjustments as needed.

Card readers are durable and can handle frequent use, making them an ideal choice for busy commercial environments that require reliable access control solutions.

Several different credentials can be used with card readers, including fobs, stickers and wrist bands.  A consultation with an access control professional can help make sense of what credentials work best for the situation.

Phone as a Credential

The current direction of much of the access control industry is using the cell phone as a credential. One advantage of these systems is the ability to easily allow, and/or decline, access for employee’s, guests, vendors and residents without the need for handing off a physical device. While codes and physical credentials are easily shared and hard to keep up with, it is highly unlikely someone will give their phone to another person to allow them access.

Phones can also replace the costly and unsightly, old school telephone entry system. A visitor can now scan a QR code on a placard by the gates, scroll through a directory, and place a video call to request access.

More Advanced Systems

More advanced systems of access control for gates include facial recognition and biometric systems. These technologies are ideal for scenarios demanding heightened security, such as laboratories or military facilities.

Facial recognition uses sophisticated algorithms to identify individuals based on facial features, providing a seamless and contactless entry method. Biometric systems, which might involve fingerprint or iris scans, offer an additional layer of security by requiring unique biological traits for access.

These systems reduce the risk of unauthorized entry by relying on individual-specific data, making them perfect for environments where high security is necessary. Implementing these technologies helps maintain strict control over access points, ensuring only authorized personnel can gain entry.

Secure Your Gate With Access Control Systems From Quality Gates and Openers

Selecting the ideal access control system for your gate is essential for enhancing security and convenience. Keypads, card readers, and advanced biometric systems each offer unique advantages, tailored to different security needs and applications. By understanding the features and benefits of each, you can make an informed choice that best suits your property’s requirements.

For personalized guidance and to explore our extensive range of access control solutions, contact Quality Gates and Openers today. Let us help you find the perfect system to keep your property safe and secure.

 

Unlocking Success: Hiring a Professional Company for Your Commercial Gate

Posted on by qualitygates

In the world of business, success hinges on making the right choices, and one such choice that can significantly impact your security and operations is the installation of commercial gates.

These gates serve as the first line of defense for your property and contribute to the overall aesthetic appeal. However, to truly unlock success in this aspect, the key lies in hiring a professional company with expertise in commercial gates.

In this blog, we will delve into the many benefits that come with entrusting your gate installation and maintenance to professionals, highlighting why they are the essential link to ensuring security and efficiency for your business.

Access Control

Enlisting the services of a professional company to install a gate for your business introduces a world of advanced access control solutions, elevating security to a new level.

Telephone entry systems enable remote access authorization, saving time and ensuring only authorized individuals enter. Robust magnetic locks seamlessly integrate into the gate, allowing access only to those with the correct credentials, eliminating the need for traditional keys. Keypad entry offers customizable and secure options, while card readers provide quick access management.

These advanced security features, along with the expertise of professionals, fortify your business’s security, safeguarding your premises effectively and efficiently.

Custom Fabrication

When you engage a professional company to install a gate for your business, you gain access to the world of custom fabrication, where aesthetics meet functionality.

Custom fabricated gates offer a unique and professional look that can be tailored to match your brand and surroundings seamlessly. These gates are not just functional; they become a statement piece for your business, leaving a lasting impression on visitors and clients.

The precision and attention to detail that professionals bring to custom fabrication ensure that your gate is not only a security feature but also a stunning visual element that enhances the overall appeal of your business premises.

Professional Installation

Opting for a professional company to install a gate for your business guarantees a seamless and efficient installation process. Professional installers bring expertise to the table, ensuring that your gate is set up correctly and promptly.

This proficiency minimizes downtime, allowing your business operations to continue smoothly. With professionals at the helm, you can trust that every aspect of the installation, from foundation work to wiring and testing, is handled meticulously.

The result is a gate that not only enhances security but also operates flawlessly, giving you peace of mind and keeping your business running without disruptions.

Secure Your Company Today With Quality Gates and Openers

The choice to hire a professional company for your commercial gate is a pivotal one that directly influences your business’s security, functionality, and visual appeal. Access control, custom fabrication, and professional installation are the cornerstones of success in this endeavor.

To embark on the journey of enhancing your business’s security and aesthetic charm, don’t hesitate to reach out to Quality Gates and Openers. Contact us today to begin the process of finding the perfect gate tailored to your company’s unique needs and specifications. Your business deserves nothing but the best, and we are here to provide it. Unlock your success with us.

 

Benefits of a Security Gate for Destin Homes

Posted on by qualitygates

In an age where security is important, safeguarding your property has become a top priority. A driveway gate, often underestimated, can be the key to fortifying your home.

This unassuming feature not only adds a touch of elegance to your Destin property but also provides an extra layer of protection.

In this article, we will delve into the myriad reasons why investing in a driveway gate is crucial for ensuring your peace of mind and safeguarding your loved ones and valuable possessions. Discover the many benefits that a driveway gate brings to your home’s security and functionality.

Securing Your Destin Property

Installing a driveway gate can significantly enhance the security of your home in Destin by acting as a deterrent to potential intruders.

While it may not be impossible to bypass, the presence of a gate creates a psychological barrier and adds an extra layer of protection. Most burglars seek easy targets, and a gated property poses a higher level of resistance, making it less attractive for unlawful entry. It forces individuals with malicious intent to expose themselves while attempting to breach, potentially drawing attention from neighbors or security systems.

Moreover, driveway gates provide homeowners with control over who enters their property, enhancing overall safety and peace of mind.

Keep Your Kids and Pets Safe

A driveway gate serves as a valuable safety feature, ensuring the protection of both children and pets in your home.

By enclosing the driveway area, it creates a secure boundary, preventing young children from wandering into busy streets and potential dangers. Not only that, but it also acts as a barrier, keeping pets safely confined within the property, away from traffic or other hazards.

With a properly installed gate, you can have peace of mind, knowing that your kids can play and your pets can roam safely without the risk of accidents or injuries. It provides an essential layer of security and supervision, fostering a secure and worry-free environment for your loved ones.

Add a Touch of Class to Your Destin Home

A driveway gate serves as a stylish and functional addition to any home, significantly enhancing its curb appeal and overall beauty.

Crafted in various materials and designs, gates can be customized to complement the architectural style of your Destin property, creating a striking first impression. They often serve as an elegant focal point, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the entire exterior.

Additionally, well-maintained gates convey a sense of pride and attention to detail, elevating your home’s overall attractiveness. Whether it’s a charming wrought iron gate or a modern, sleek design, a driveway gate not only boosts security but also adds a touch of sophistication, enhancing the visual allure of your Destin residence.

Let Us Help Secure Your Property

A driveway gate is far more than a mere security measure; it’s an investment in your home’s safety, aesthetics, and value. The benefits of protection from intruders, keeping your loved ones and pets safe, and enhancing your property’s curb appeal are undeniable.

If you’re considering the installation of a driveway gate, look no further than Quality Gates and Openers. Our expert team is ready to help you choose the perfect gate to meet your needs and elevate your property’s security and style. Contact us today to take the first step in fortifying your home with a driveway gate that combines functionality and elegance.

 

Quality Gates’ Veterans Day Gate Giveaway

Posted on by qualitygates

The entry window will close Thursday, September 23, 2021 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 $10,000 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 active US military or 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 catered lunch or dinner with our company on Friday, October 1. All finalists that meet the criteria will be reviewed to ensure qualification in the days up to October 1 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, 2021.

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.

Quality Powder Coating: Why We Choose to Use Powder

Posted on by qualitygates

Where Did Powder Coating Originate?

Powder coating has been around for several decades but has only recently been recognized as a better choice than paint for many projects spanning myriad industries. Originally founded by a German scientist in the 1950s, powder coating used to be a far more difficult and costly process. 70 years later, we’ve perfected this process and made it far more affordable than ever before. Today, powder coating is done all over the world in lieu of its more toxic and less-durable cousin, paint.

Benefits and Advantages to Powder Coating

  1. Durability. Powder coating has a finish similar to paint but can withstand harsher elements and circumstances than paint applications can.
  2. Non-toxic. Powder coating contains safe materials and components, whereas paint fumes are toxic if inhaled for long periods of time.
  3. Easy and efficient to apply. With the right equipment and materials, powder coating can be easier and more efficient to apply than paint.
  4. Timely process. Because of the powder oven, it takes far less time for the powder to “dry” than paint.
  5. Affordable. Powder coating is far more affordable today than ever before. With all of the above benefits and advantages, it seems too good to be true that powder is so accessible, but it is!

Why We Use Powder Coating at Quality Gates

Among the many positive things about powder coating, it is also recommended by the EPA for sustainability. At Quality Gates, we choose to use the best quality, most sustainable, and durable option for adding color and texture to our materials. The secret to a perfectly applied quality powder coating starts with the powder. We use reputable, consistent brands and colors that allow us to provide consistent quality powder coating for projects ranging from small residential projects to larger industrial powder coating jobs. We also provide a color matching service for those who need to match the powder to a particular paint color. At our powder coating shop in Panama City, FL, we happily stock black, bronze, and white, but the color possibilities are endless!

Are you in the market for a brand new gate, or maybe you have a powder coating project on the horizon? Visit our website to request a quote today! If you’re already one of our wonderful customers, please consider leaving us an online review.

What Separates Us: Quarterly Service Agreement

Posted on by qualitygates

When our customers are searching for gates or gate service, they tend to find out that we are different from most. We pride ourselves on what separates us from these other companies. Many of these companies will not return to provide maintenance, repairs, or warranty support after the initial installation. They may come from out of town to do so, and then unfortunately they expect you to fend for yourself.

Why is this a problem?

Most gate companies do not offer servicing of your gate after it has been installed. If you’ve ever owned a gate, you understand that gates are problematic by nature. They are often hit by vehicles, struck by lightning, damaged by storms (particularly here in Florida,) or a host of other issues that can go wrong with the operation of a gate.

How We’re Different

At Quality Gates, what separates us (among other things) is that we offer a fully-operational service team to respond within 24 hours (weather-permitting) of your service complaint. We pride ourselves on our quick response time and overt professionalism of our technicians and staff. We offer a default service warranty up to one year from installation at no charge, and after that if you’d like to subscribe to our Quarterly Service Agreement, you also have that option. Based on the myriad problems that gates are susceptible to, we certainly recommend it.

About our Quarterly Service Agreement:

If you choose to subscribe to our QSA, you’ll receive a full servicing of your gate four times per year. This means all operational parts will be inspected, the functionality of your gate will be tested, and we’ll also ensure that your gate has remained compliant with ASTM-F2200 and UL-325 standards (up to code.) In addition to testing all operational components of your gate, we will also clean your operators and apply pesticide, check and tighten bolts and anchors, lubricate moving parts, and more. It is well worth the investment!

For more information on our QSA please call our office. If you’d like to request a quote, please visit our website.

In the market for a brand new gate? Visit our website to request a quote today! If you’re already one of our amazing customers, please consider leaving an online review!

At Quality Gates and Openers, we are Certified Gate Installers!

Posted on by qualitygates

(What are ASTM and UL Certifications, and why do they matter?)

When you are ready to have a gate installed, you want it done correctly. Here at Quality Gates, we are certified gate installers and fabricators by the I.D.E.A. (Institute of Door Dealer Education and Accreditation). This may not sound all that exciting, but in the world of gate safety it means everything.

What exactly does it mean?

This means our team is qualified to create and install the highest quality product possible to keep you and your family safe when operating your gate. Each member of our team has been trained to conform to ASTM and/or UL which combined follow all the code requirements for automated operator safety, design safety and more.

Why should this matter?

One main reason: safety. Gates are dangerous! There are many ways things can go wrong if a gate is improperly installed that can result in severe injury or even death. We install our gates correctly, efficiently and up to code. If something should ever happen to anyone involving your gate, you will be liable and the company who installed it will be liable. We make sure to do it right the first time, so you and your family can enjoy your gate knowing it has passed the certification standards for gate safety.

There are many codes that require the adherence to UL and ASTM, including building codes, fire codes, residential dwelling codes and property maintenance codes.

These certifications have been around for years, but alarmingly most people (including gate installers) either have not heard of them or do not adhere to them. We at Quality Gates are here to tell you that WE absolutely do, and pride ourselves on our certified gate installers and designers. It is in everyone’s best interest to conform to the UL and ASTM standards to keep your loved ones safe.

Ready to see our incredible fabrication and install teams in action? Visit our website to request a quote! If you’ve already had wonderful experience with our team, please consider leaving an online review!

What Separates Us: A Quality Gate

Posted on by qualitygates

Our Philosophy.

We are an award-winning custom gate and powder coating business located in Panama City, FL. At Quality Gates, we specialize in the highest quality gate fabrication and craftsmanship. All our technicians and members of our installation and design teams are certified by IDEA (Institute of Door Education and Accreditation,) which surpasses UL 325 and ASTM F-2200 qualifications. Our team has the most up-to-date training and knowledge to ensure a properly designed and installed automated quality gate and opener system.

We offer access control, custom fabrication and powder-coating, including a full one-year warranty on labor and quarterly service agreements to help ensure the longevity of your quality gate.

We proudly service all areas of Northwest Florida, from Cape San Blas to Pensacola and everywhere in between and as far north as Headland, AL. It is our pleasure to provide the best quality gate installations, service, and powder coating around.

Meet our Team

Chris Harris –President/Owner

Brandi Bickford—VP of Finance/Human Resources

Chuck Bunch—Service Manager

Brice Parry–Sales Manager

Rebecca Eckles—Manager of Customer Relationships and Marketing

Chuck (Charles) Wyzard–Manager of Powder Coating

Angel McDonald—Office Assistant

Dakota DeBusk—Lead Installer

Michael Johnson—Service Technician/Powder Coater/Shop Assistance

Joshua Daniels—Service Technician

Bryce Hall—Service Technician

Zippy Pace— Fabricator

Zach Revis— Installation

Brandon Geldert— Shop Help

Mason Langston–Shop Apprentice

We are Essential.

We are deemed an “essential business” by the US Department of Homeland Security and are continuing to work hard through these trying times. We assure you all members of our team have been trained on how to interact with customers using proper social distancing procedures and are ready to serve you. Request a quote today!

Have you already had a positive experience with our team? Leave us a review!