Tag: gates

Is Your Gate Out Of Date? A Guide To UL 325 and ASTM 2200

Posted on by Chris

The safety and security of automatic gates are of the utmost importance, which is why it is essential to make sure they are equipped with up-to-date standards. Understanding the codes and standards that apply to automatic gates is key to ensuring they are safe and effective. In this blog post, we will take a look at two important standards: Gate Code UL 325 and ASTM 2200. We will explore their importance and how they help to keep automatic gates safe and secure.

The Problem With Outdated Standards

When it comes to safety and security for automated gates, outdated standards can be a major concern. Outdated standards can lead to gates that are vulnerable to attack, malfunctioning, or otherwise unsafe. Automatic gates must meet certain standards of quality and safety in order to function properly and protect those who use them. Without up-to-date standards, these gates may not be able to provide the necessary protection or performance.

Unfortunately, many automatic gate systems are still using outdated standards. The UL 325 standard, which was created in 1981, is one example of an outdated standard that is still widely used. While this standard has been updated over the years, it is still not as comprehensive as more modern standards such as ASTM 2200. ASTM 2200 is the latest standard for automated gates and provides more detailed guidelines for gate design, installation, and maintenance.

It’s important to be aware of outdated standards when it comes to automatic gates. Outdated standards may not provide adequate safety and performance, which can lead to serious accidents or security risks. If you’re using an automatic gate system, it’s essential to make sure you’re using up-to-date standards for maximum safety and performance.

 

The Benefits of Up-To-Date Standards

When it comes to ensuring safety and security, having up-to-date standards for automatic gates is essential. The current industry standard for automatic gates is the Gate Code UL 325, as specified by the Underwriters Laboratories, and the ASTM 2200, set forth by the American Society for Testing and Materials. These standards require gate operators to adhere to strict safety guidelines and features to protect people and property, including motion detectors, sensors, and alarms.

Having up-to-date standards can provide a variety of benefits that improve safety and security. For instance, a properly functioning gate operator is able to detect when a person or object has entered its line of sight, and is equipped with sensors that will stop and reverse the gate’s direction if the operator detects an obstacle in its path. It also provides the option for manual override in case of emergency. Moreover, many up-to-date gate operators are equipped with an emergency stop button to halt the gate immediately in case of an emergency situation.

The most important benefit of up-to-date standards is the peace of mind they bring. Knowing that your automatic gate is up to date with current safety and security standards gives you the assurance that your property is secure and your family is safe. Additionally, staying up-to-date on safety standards can help keep your insurance premiums low, as insurers may offer discounts for homes and businesses with updated security measures.

How to Find Out If Your Automatic Gate Is Up-To-Date

Give Quality Gates And Openers a call today at 850-271-3617 and Schedule a Complimentary Inspection.

Book a Courtesy Inspection with Quality Gates And Openers

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!

 

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.