Retractable gates: advantages and disadvantages
Nowadays, you can install on your site a variety of gates. They provide a high level of security by protecting your site from intruders. Sliding gates stand out among a wide variety of designs. They have excellent performance characteristics.
Special features
The design of sliding gates contains the following elements:
- guides;
- shield;
- videos;
- frame;
- electric type drive.
The main characteristic of sliding gates is reflected in their name. The design, which has a high level of strength and durability, seems to be rolling aside, which is why this option is very popular and in demand in our time. Constructions of this type are a frame of rectangular type, which is sheathed with special panels. The profile is made of high strength aluminum or stainless steel.
It is possible to extend the life of a structure by treating it with special compounds that protect against the effects of various negative factors.
The role of the bearing type construction is performed by a power frame made of metal. It must be concreted to improve the basic operational properties. Guides are the elements that are located above the frame. Traps are located on the opposite side of these parts. There is a lower and upper element. The rollers are set so that they are at an equal distance from each other. For their installation, it is enough to distinguish two areas in the general structure.
Electric drive is a reliable movement mechanism. It is controlled using a remote control or a special button. Reliable automatic mechanism allows you to easily open and close the gate, even in bad weather. There are three types of sliding gates that are popular in our time:
Rail
Rail-type gates are compact in size. To use them comfortably and easily. Rail laid on the ground, serves as the basis for the installation of cloth on wheels.A variety of mechanical effects do not affect the appearance of the gate.
Suspended
Universal suspended gates installed on industrial sites. These are huge constructions, the installation of which should be handled by real professionals. Malefactors will not be able to break such gate. Negative factors do not affect their original form.
Cantilever
Console-type designs are popular in the global market. These are silent devices that do not require a ready-made opening for installation. In the design of the model there are a lot of elements, with a variety of which a person without experience will not understand.
These are the main features of modern rolling constructions. You can make a choice in favor of any of the options, having decided on your needs and features of the place of installation of the gate.
Installation requirements
It is necessary to examine in advance the territory where the sliding gates will be installed. You also need to make sure that the site can be engaged in the installation of construction of this type. In order not to make a mistake, carefully inspect the opening and the territory that adjoins it:
- To roll back without all sorts of obstacles, make sure that there is enough free space for such purposes. In order for the gate to function normally, leave about one and a half width of the opening along the fence. Also the distance to the depth of the plot should reach 40 cm;
- remember that the sash that is moving will move from the side of the fence located inside. This factor should be taken into account in the process of creating the planning of the territory, while planting trees, as well as other vegetation;
- the gate should not interfere with the free movement of the sash, so it is better to make it so that it is located on the opposite side. A worthy decision will be the gate, the gate of which is built into the overall structure. This option has a high threshold, which is its main drawback. It complicates the passage of older people and children;
- for the opening or closing of the cloth to be optimal, you will need an even relief. If there are bumps, slopes or depressions in the territory, then the load on the automation will increase, which will bring it out of action ahead of time.
These are the requirements that must be observed in the installation of sliding gates. If all of them are completed, the installation of the construction will not cause you any problems. You will be able to use the sliding gate without encountering difficulties that may cause some discomfort.
Advantages and disadvantages
There are many advantages to sliding gates.
The following points influenced their popularity:
- sheathing of sandwich panels allows you to save a maximum of valuable heat indoors;
- the course of such structures is smooth and very quiet, so they will not cause discomfort;
- in winter you can not waste your time on cleaning the snow in front of the gate;
- wooden and other structures will last as long as possible, since they are reliable and durable;
- control of the gate is carried out manually or using a special remote control;
- it is very easy to use structures, therefore any person will cope with the management process;
- the gate is not afraid of negative weather factors, as well as mechanical effects.
The constructions can be equipped with signal lamps, which will make it possible to feel completely safe.Similar gate will become the optimal solution for each site.
The disadvantages of the sliding gates are not so much, but it is worthwhile to deal with them in more detail:
- there is a need for additional concreting of the pillars and the structure itself;
- so that the gate does not overlap, it is necessary to arrange additional space for the rollback;
- it is necessary to protect the roller system from snow and regularly clean it from leaves.
These are the main disadvantages that are characteristic of sliding gates. Despite this, people continue to order designs, since they stand out favorably against the background of other options.
Material
The most common and popular materials for the manufacture of such gates are wood and metal. Each of these species has its advantages and disadvantages.
Gates made of corrugated flooring have the following advantages:
- The highest level of durability. The rigidity of the structure contributes to the fact that it is not afraid of all kinds of mechanical stress;
- Cheapness Metal gates are cheaper than their counterparts, so their purchase is more affordable;
- Lack of pattern on the surface.Due to this, installation of the structure is facilitated, since it is not necessary to select a pattern;
- Easy installation. It is possible to install steel gates with the help of tools that will be found in each owner's arsenal;
- Corrosion protection. The gates for the dacha are treated with special compounds that will not allow rust stains to spoil their original appearance;
- Range of shades. You can choose the design of the color that you like;
- Durability. Welded doors will last as long as possible, since the manufacturer gives a guarantee for at least 20 years.
If we talk about the shortcomings of the gate of corrugated board, it is only one. If the protective material layer is damaged, then corrosion will soon destroy the gate.
Gates made of wood also have certain properties:
- the cost of designs available;
- for the manufacture and installation of the gate will need a minimum set of tools;
- the only long stage in the process of assembling structures is waiting for the concrete solution to completely solidify, which was used to install the pillars;
- the gate looks very presentable and solid.
You will be able to realize any project, having received worthy results of the work.
There are certain disadvantages to wooden gates:
- they will not last too long;
- the mechanical strength of the material is extremely low;
- wooden construction can catch fire;
- You are not guaranteed a high level of security.
Choose yourself which gate to install: aluminum or wooden. Be sure to take into account the features of their use, as well as the main characteristics of the selected type of material.
Decor
The main decoration of the territory is the gate, complemented by decorative elements. Such designs look presentable and solid, regardless of what material they are made from. Various photocells, additional details and other trifles radically transform the plot for the better.
Decorate the sliding gates will help such interesting options:
- forged elements that differ from each other in their size and shape will look great from above;
- it is possible to decorate double doors from the front side with forged grilles or presentable patterns made in the forging technique;
- You can position the decoration in the corners of the valves, as well as throughout their area;
- the scenery, which is carved from a professional sheet and placed on the front side of the structure, looks unusual and stylish;
- the profile of the frame and the supporting pillars can be decorated with profiles made in various forms.
These are ways that are suitable for decorating various sliding gates. Show your imagination to create a unique and unsurpassed masterpiece.
Constructions
The door leaf is installed on the frame, which is made of high-strength profile tube. The carrier beam is attached to the frame, supplemented with a special profile. Roller carriages enter the web with this part. Moving the beam together with the gate occurs in different directions, thanks to which the sectional doors swing open. All main parts are regularly subjected to considerable loads, therefore, in order to increase the service life of parts, the gate is supplemented with rollers that are able to optimize loads.
To prevent the gate from distorting with time, you need to install a guide with rollers on wheels, as well as an upper catcher.
It will fix the design if the swing gates are closed.Special plugs installed inside the beam prevent dirt and dust from entering the mechanisms. It is much better to mount the gate on the foundation and on the pillars. It is possible to build supports from a shaped pipe made of high-strength and durable metal, if there are no such elements on the site.
High-quality electric motor is easily implemented in sliding gates. It is attached directly between the carriages with rollers. Different types of designs require the use of specific drive models. To move the canvas, on its side surface set rack gear type. Also, the electric drive in prefabricated structures is supplied with devices that make it possible to ensure a high level of safety.
Work mechanism
A beam with a cross-section in the shape of the letter C is the main component in the overall system. She became a place to install special carriages. The blocks of rollers “walk” due to the functioning of the mobile guides, which set them in motion. Also, thanks to the upper element, a button actuator functions.
Gates of different sizes can be supplemented with the following functional elements:
- sensors monitoring the state of the structure;
- lamps that emit special signals;
- mechanical systems that block the gate in case of emergency.
The drive of the torsion type gives the chance to manage section gate. The signal from the post goes to the remote, resulting in the rise of the lamellae. They are wound on a shaft, passing through the rails on the sides. The result is a compact roll. Support and suspension is a high-strength bracket. To keep the movement uniform, external nodes rotate on the bearings. To control the lifts will allow an electric panel or magnetic card. It is very easy and convenient, so you definitely will not face problems.
Types of guides
The console or guide rail is a special beam that is present in the design of the gate. It gives the opportunity to make the movement of the valves as smooth as possible. Only high-quality rail will contribute to the correct and unproblematic work of the gate. Their adjustment will be more simple and accessible, and the opening will be complete.
Remember that the racks and other elements must be of the highest quality.Otherwise, parts quickly deform and fail prematurely.
As a result, you will spend a lot of finances to repair the gate, as well as jeopardize your own safety.
Choosing a beam, take into account its cross section. This element should not be square. This form suggests that in front of you - a fake.
If it is intended to install fire-fighting equipment, it is necessary to choose guides that fit the size. The standard length of these elements varies from 5 to 7 m, but you can find longer guides that allow you to install all the necessary details correctly.
Choosing the optimal size of the guide must be very careful. Be sure to calculate the width of the carriageway, which is equal to the size of the web structure. Also take into account the fact that the total length of the sash is equal to the length of the canvas, which is added to the dimensions of the counterweight. Its size reaches half the size of the sash.
Features of the calculation
First of all, it should be noted that all processes take place in several main stages:
- measure the width and height of the opening.You should also pay attention to whether the gate will be free. In order for the fence to open without problems, you need to free the exit, as well as decide on the type of construction that suits you;
- when it comes to homemade doors, choose the best material for their manufacture, focusing on the peculiarities of environmental conditions;
- estimate the total weight of the structure, as well as the required number of valves;
- create a layout and sketch of the gate that you want to install on your territory.
When you decide on all the above points and follow them, you can proceed to the basic calculations.
To properly equip the telescopic or other elements, take into account certain nuances:
- Height and width (be sure to consider the materials used). To create a profile correctly, remember that in the process of work you will have to weld certain parts to it. That is why it is necessary to correctly calculate the appropriate height and width of future gates;
- Overall dimensions of the structure. It is necessary to take information regarding wind resistance with a margin.Especially this moment is important for people who live in regions where it is impossible to know the exact force of the wind.
To simplify your task, you can use special calculators online. These are programs that will help determine all the important parameters. You can also contact the professionals who are engaged in the manufacture and installation of this type of gate. Experts will help create a draft that will allow you to save your own time on the implementation of basic measurements. They will determine the dimensions of the picket fence, as well as other elements that are present in the design of the sliding gate. Thanks to this, you will be able to get information that will guide you in the process of performing basic work.
Do not forget that the width of the gate is the length from full closure to full opening. So you can calculate the dimensions yourself.
Add the distance of the opening and the section where the gate will go to the end in the open state. If you are designing a structure, remember that the width should be two times larger than the width of the opening.
Automation
Often, the owners of such structures are faced with the choice of automation for installation on an outdoor gate. The main thing in such equipment is a quality drive. This motor must be safe and reliable, because the durability of the gate directly depends on its features.
When choosing an engine for a design, pay attention to the following factors:
- overall design dimensions;
- features of the carrier system, which directly affect the ease of movement of the door leaf;
- it is necessary to make a sketch so that all the structural elements correspond geometrically to all the details;
- take into account how often the structure will be used;
- a significant role is played by the total weight of the sash.
You can install special sensors that will work with the drive. Remember that a very powerful drive will be needed for heavy gates. If the gates in the territory are not regularly exposed to heavy loads, then drive intensity up to 30% is sufficient. If the design will skip a large number of machines, then pay attention to the drives, the intensity of which is more than 50%.
You will also need a special remote control that allows you to comfortably use the structures. In the selection process, pay attention to its range. There is automatic equipment, which operates at a distance of more than 5 m. You simply press a button, without leaving the car, so that the gate rises up. Thanks to such solutions, you can feel comfortable even in the cold hours of the day.
Subtleties of manufacture
The manufacture of sliding gates is a process that almost every owner can handle.
To cope with the process, it is necessary to calculate the following factors:
- opening widths;
- overall height of the structure;
- the size of the material, which sheathe frame.
A special formula will help calculate the length of the cantilever door panels: it takes 1.5 widths of the opening of the structure and adds up to 20 cm. If we talk about the height of the gate, it should be identical to the height of the panel, to which the height of the clearance is added. You also need to organize it a little below the fence (5 cm). In order for the finished system to function correctly, it is necessary to prepare a special set of fittings.It consists of rollers, U-shaped supporting beams, as well as reliable holders. There are sets of various sizes. To open the gate was easy to do, you need to choose the right elements. The final choice depends on the weight of the gate, as well as the total width of the opening to the light.
Suitable combinations are the following options:
- gates with a total height of 4 meters and a weight of 4000 kg require a set of small size;
- gates with a height of 6 m and a weight of 400 kg need a set of medium dimensions;
- gates more than 6 m high and weighing more than 600 kg can be installed only with the help of a large set.
It is necessary to mount remote elements quickly and efficiently. For their mounting choose special places in the design of the profile. It is imperative to check whether the remote control is working, so as not to encounter problems and difficulties in the further operation of the structure.
Installation
You can install a sliding gate even without the help of professionals.
To cope with such work, you must follow this plan:
- prepare a diagram or drawing of a future construction in order to save a lot of time and energy in its future installation;
- decide on the foundation for the gate;
- manufacture a sliding construction;
- If you wish, automate the gate.
If you decide to observe the last point, pay due attention to the stage of laying the foundation. At this stage it is necessary to carry out all the necessary communications in order not to encounter problems and difficulties in the future. The manufacture of sliding gates begins with the arrangement of their frame. It is necessary to drive pegs into the ground. They must be leveled using a special hydro level. Jumpers are laid on top. These elements can be made of sheets of metal or wood.
Profile pipes are laid only on finished structures. Their optimal dimensions are 60x40x2 m. The pipes must be fixed along the edges in a dotted way. After that, they are welded, strictly following the location of the seams. Next, to create suspended structures, you need to take a pipe, the dimensions of which are 40x20 m. It is necessary to cut the blanks, which will be needed to create a batten inside the structure. They are mounted point method. The design must be checked on the vertical. After that, the sheathing is welded with seams, the size of which does not exceed 1 cm. The distance between the seams should not be less than 40 cm. The seams should be cleaned without fail.Also, they must be treated with high quality degreasers and paint coatings.
To install the gate from a profiled sheet or wood, as follows. At the very beginning, carrier carriages are attached to the carrier beam. After that, such a structure is installed directly on the foundation. The beam is pushed into the opening. Now you can adjust the width of the lumen, following the gap from the pillar to the end of the beam itself. Remember that the console part can fall on its side, which is why fix it with special plates.
The cart, which will be located in front, must be properly welded. It should be located from the edge of the structure at a distance not exceeding 150 mm. After that you can weld the frame structure. Try to roll back the carrier beam so that it is in the center of the foundation. Now the middle must be combined with it.
Weld to this beam frame. Only manual work will allow you to achieve an effective result. The seams should be welded approximately 2 or 3 cm. There should be a minimum of 40 cm between them. It is necessary to work from both sides at once, shifting the structure from left to right.
You can not weld the places in which the rollers are located, because the gate will stop well and easy to open.
If you have already welded the frame, using the top bracket, take work on the prevention of corrosion processes. To do this, the gap, which is located between the carrier beam and the sliding canvas, lubricate automotive acrylic primer. When the product is completely dry, pour acrylic based sealant into this slot. After that, wait until it is completely set. This place must be treated with degreasers, and paint with suitable coatings.
When you complete the above work, proceed to the lining of the prepared structure. For such purposes, you can use professional sheets, the range of shades and types of which is very wide. Also fit wooden planks and coatings that resemble timber with their appearance. If you want to repeat the color of the fence, make a choice in favor of installing a professional sheet brand C-8 or MP-20.
Useful tips
Automatic gates have high reliability, durability and durability, but over time certain malfunctions can occur, because the parts wear out.All types of mechanisms need to be serviced, because only in this case can we count on their long service life. The owners of the gate often resort to the services of urgent repairs to find a way out of the situation.
If suddenly the structure suddenly broke, then it is no longer possible to use it. It will be impossible to close the gate even mechanically.
Only repair will allow you to cope with the problem, because broken movable gates can disrupt your plans, as well as prevent you from performing important tasks.
Gates are serviced by customer services, because it is an integral part of their comfortable operation. In particular, this applies to the situation when the gate is installed on an industrial facility. If suddenly they fail, the company may incur significant losses. Although the advantages of sliding gates are obvious, they are not protected from damage. Usually malfunctions can occur due to the fact that the person uses the design incorrectly.
If we talk about the wrong process of operating the structure, then everything should be clear. If you control the gate in manual mode, you can produce a manipulation that will damage the part of the gate.If we are talking about the automatic operation of the structure, then foreign objects can get inside, which will not allow the gate to move freely. Here you can add the fact that employees of modern enterprises feel absolute permissiveness. They begin to repair structures themselves if they are out of order. As a result, the breakdown becomes even larger. It is after such interventions that a major overhaul of the gate may be necessary.
In many situations, you can easily avoid the need for major structural repairs. Remember that even the slightest disruption to work can exacerbate the entire production process.
You can avoid them if you use the services of adjustment and adjustment of structures. They are offered by many service departments. If such regulation is not carried out, then the person will be faced with the need to overhaul the structure. As a result, the company will incur considerable losses. A variety of breakdowns can be caused by the fact that employees with insufficient work experience are engaged in servicing the gate.We need to work with the staff, send workers to refresher courses, to eliminate the risk of gate failure.
Please note that it is better to prevent breakdowns, since repairs may cost a pretty penny. It is also often impossible to repair the gate due to the fact that the stores do not have the necessary components for them. In the repair you may be denied due to the fact that to carry out repairs impractical. It may turn out to be much cheaper to install a new design than to repair a failed option. There is no getting away from such a problem as neglecting routine maintenance. This activity is the prerogative of special organizations that have considerable experience, but this should not be completely reassuring.
If we talk about the ideal option, the client must cooperate with the company that will serve the gate. This means that the technical condition of the structure will be monitored by a special professional who possesses all the basic skills and knowledge.
He will find out what the problem is without any problems, and then he will work on the process of its elimination.The first signs that indicate the presence of a fault cannot be ignored. If suddenly the gate stopped to open or close well, do not hesitate with their maintenance. Thanks to the services of specialists you will have the opportunity to save money on solving the problem.
Most often, a gate breakdown is accompanied by various manifestations that precede it. These can be third-party loud sounds that you have not heard before. Also, the design may twist or stop tightly closed. Broken gates work with noise and interruptions. Often professionals install the gate without proper experience, which is why they make certain mistakes that lead to problems in the future. Even electrical systems whose cost is very high cannot be protected from these factors.
Treat gate adjustment issues very carefully. It is much cheaper and easier to do than to cope with a serious breakdown of the structure.
If people are attentive and responsible to the technical state of the gate, they will be able to extend the life of the structure.Employees should be regularly instructed regarding the maintenance of the gate. Also, be sure to invite professionals to your facility to avoid serious damage and the need for major repairs.
Common mistakes
Self-installation of such structures is something that no person is immune from.
There are the most common errors that are often encountered in the process of performing such work:
- errors in the preparation of the base for installation of the structure
- incorrectly attached components that fail prematurely;
- Often the gates begin to emit loud creaks during operation. The reason for this may be sand, which fell into the bearings. It can be removed by correcting the problem. The reason for the appearance of squeaks can be such an error during the installation of the structure, such as the incorrect determination of the distance between the supports;
- Sometimes people incorrectly pick up the mass of the gate, focusing on the carrier beam. As a result, after some time, the construction sags completely;
- if in places where the welds are located, there are smudges, this indicates that the paint on the canvas was not applied according to the rules. You need to clean the surface of grease and other contaminants. Then a layer of primer is applied to it, which is painted with a paint-and-lacquer coating;
- pillars may twist to one side or swell with time. The cause of these phenomena is considered to be such a mistake as the incorrect calculation of the depth of soil freezing and the dimensions of the foundation. The base must exceed the main load several times.
In fact, the installation of sliding gates can be carried out without the help of professionals. It is enough for you to learn the important rules and nuances, and also to follow them clearly in the process of performing the work. Due to this, you will avoid mistakes in the process of installation of the gate, so the problems described above will not arise in the future.
Beautiful examples
Retractable gates look great in the exterior of any territory. You can choose the option that is suitable for the main characteristics for you. Take advantage of interesting ideas that are proposed by experienced designers.
This is a very stylish design made of wood. Retractable gates fit perfectly into the exterior, as they are complemented by a white fence. The material itself is treated with special coatings that protect it from negative factors. Wood will last as long as possible, allowing you to enjoy comfort.
Retractable gates are the most popular and popular type of construction. This is because it is incredibly easy to use. Simply click on one of the buttons on the remote so that they open. The width of this gate is perfect for installation in this area. They are created in a strict and concise design, which makes it possible to decorate and complement any exterior.
Such gates can be made in any style. This design looks very modern and presentable. For its production was chosen popular and popular in our time high-tech style. A brilliant sheet of metal reflects everything that is around. This design is an excellent solution for modern areas, where the latest fashion trends are embodied.
Sliding gates are now at their peak of popularity.This is due to their attractive appearance, high level of durability, long service life and reliability. You can even equip the gate without the help of professionals, since there is absolutely nothing complicated in their installation.
Presentable and solid look forged sliding gates, the top of which is decorated with various elements. Made fences of high strength materials. This may be a standard design, which is distinguished by a minimum number of decorative elements.
But there are more interesting options. In such designs, the elements of forging are folded into intricate patterns and interesting weaves. Such a fence will be a worthy decoration of your territory, since it is simply impossible to ignore it.
Among the main types of sliding gates, suspended structures deserve special attention. They provide maximum comfort and safety. Usually, these gates are operated using a special remote control. It is enough to press only one button so that the gate goes up. Their support is strong, reliable and durable.
If we talk about sliding rail type doors, they are also common.Bright and unusual designs transform the territory for the better right before your eyes. You can easily install them without the help of professionals.
Complex and intricate designs look incredibly presentable and solid. They trace unique design decisions. You can supplement your territory with a luxurious fence, which will be its main feature and highlight. A variety of designs is amazing, allowing a person to realize their main ideas.
Durable metal sliding doors can be additionally decorated with interesting details. These are various inclusions, holes and other elements that make up interesting compositions. These products look very original, since their surface can be decorated in various ways.
Select the gate that is suitable for installation in your territory. Take into account the overall design of the site, as well as other important points.
If you manage to deal with all the important points and nuances, then problems in the future are completely excluded.You can ask for help from designers who will help you choose the best option for a particular territory. They will give you the opportunity to determine the appropriate material for the manufacture of the fence, with its decor and other important points, thanks to which you can create a unique and original exterior.
You can choose a simple design, but you can pay attention to the intricate design of the fence. The final choice depends on your wishes and financial possibilities. Remember that the most popular and common are wrought iron gates. Their presentable and stylish look will win any heart, because such luxury can not be ignored. Whatever sliding gates you choose, they will successfully complement the exterior of your site. The variety of various designs is amazing, allowing you to look at your territory with different eyes. You will be able to install the gate on your own, without encountering problems and difficulties.
Master class "Retractable gate with your own hands," see the following video.