When they’re working properly, automatic gate systems are convenient, secure, and reliable. However, all gate systems have a finite lifespan and will eventually become worn out and require replacement. Here are six signs to help you determine if it’s time to replace your residential gate.

1. It has physical damage

If your metal gate is rusted through or has several dents or scratches, it may be time to replace it. These issues can impact your gate’s stability and compromise the safety of everyone who uses it. In addition, if you have a wooden gate that’s rotting, cracked, or broken in several places, it’s probably best to have it replaced. Once rot sets in, it’s nearly impossible to get rid of. In addition, broken or cracked wooden planks and posts can compromise your gate’s integrity and security.

2. It has motor problems

If your gate opener motor is damaged, it may be stiff, slow, or completely unresponsive. This usually means there’s unwanted friction somewhere causing your system to work overtime. Additionally, you may notice signs of corrosion or rusting around the motor itself. These issues are caused by daily wear and tear, extreme weather conditions, or even pests. When your gate opener motor fails, there’s no guarantee you’ll be able to find a suitable replacement. That said, it’s often easier to replace your gate system entirely.

3. It’s out of alignment

If your driveway gate is moving roughly against its track and won’t stop in the right position, you probably have an issue with your gate arm or gear rack. You may also hear loud squeaking or grinding noises when the gate is moving. Misaligned gates are often caused by excessive wear and tear or shifts in the foundation where your gate is located. Since these issues can be difficult or even impossible to fix, you may need to replace your gate system.

4. It has worn hinges

Hinges are the most overworked part of any gate system. If your hinges are starting to wear, you may hear grinding and squeaking noises. In addition, your gate may start scraping along the ground or have trouble opening and closing if the hinges have collapsed entirely. If using a silicone spray or high-quality lubricant doesn’t solve the problem, you’ll likely have to replace your entire system.

5. It lacks safety features

Automatic gates are heavy and can move at one metre per second or more. Without the proper safety features in place, your gate could cause a serious or even fatal injury. You should consider replacing your automatic gate if its several years old and doesn’t have the following features:

• Automatic sensors. New driveway gates have reverse and/or stop functions that automatically engage when there’s an obstacle in the way. This prevents the gate from crushing whatever gets in its way.
  
  
• Guards. Modern systems often have guards installed between and alongside the gates to discourage anyone from reaching through to retrieve a dropped item or activate the controls.
  
• Alarms. Updated gate systems have alarms that will sound and alert those nearby that the gates have malfunctioned and could hurt somebody.

These access control and safety features allow you to come and go safely while keeping out unwanted visitors.

6. It’s difficult to find spare parts

In many instances you can fix automatic gate problems by replacing certain parts. However, if your get is old, some parts may not be readily available. In fact, you may find that it’s impossible to get your hands on a particular component. If your gate is nearing the end of its lifespan and requires frequent repairs, it may be easier to simply replace the entire system.

We Offer Planned Maintenance and Gate Service

At Creative Door Services^TM, we help extend the lifespan of automatic gate systems by offering our clients access to a planned maintenance program. Once you sign up for the program, you can expect one of our expert technicians to come to your home once per year to inspect your gate system and ensure it’s working properly. They’ll be able to detect minor problems before they become major issues and thereby save you from needing to prematurely invest in a new system.

Automatic Gate Repair & Replacement in Western Canada

If you’re having trouble with your residential gate system, Creative Door Services^TM can help. We offer comprehensive automatic gate repair, replacement, and maintenance services. If your automatic gate needs to be repaired or replaced, our friendly sales staff can help. Contact us today for a free quote or to find out more. We have locations in Kelowna, British Columbia; Vancouver, British Columbia; Calgary, Alberta; Edmonton, Alberta; Fort McMurray, Alberta; Regina, Saskatchewan; Saskatoon, Saskatchewan; and Winnipeg, Manitoba.