Today’s automatic driveway gates are stronger and more durable than ever. Made of welded, heavy-duty steel, aluminum, or cast iron, they’re built to endure.

Though residential gate systems are robust, they’re also used on a daily basis and exposed to extreme weather conditions. As a result, structural problems can sometimes arise.

Fortunately, you may be able to minimize this kind of damage by being proactive. Here are some tips that can potentially help reduce the chance your driveway gate is affected by structural issues.

Dealing With Chips And Cracks

Gate owners sometimes make the mistake of seeing chips, scratches, and cracks as minor or merely aesthetic problems. In reality, they can do much more than mar the look of your gate. Although they may start out small, these blemishes can get worse with time. Chips on steel and iron gates cause rusting, and cracks get larger with time, thereby compromising the overall strength of your gate.

Inspect your gate for damage periodically and touch-up scratches and chips with the appropriate paint (refer to your gate manual for recommended products).

Cracks are a bit trickier. If the cracking is in a critical area, such as around hinges, it’s important to call in a qualified gate technician to perform a precise repair that restores the structural integrity of your gate.

Tackling Rust Buildup

Rust can spread over time and affect the overall structural integrity of your gate. Fortunately, areas of rust can be sanded and repainted with a couple coats of a primer containing rust inhibitors. Epoxy primer is a good option for most steel gates.

Additionally, you should have your steel or iron gate galvanized if it isn’t already. Galvanization consists of adding a protective zinc coating that prevents rust and corrosion. Without galvanization, steel and iron are prone to rust. Most modern steel and wrought iron gates sold today are galvanized during the manufacturing process.

Fixing A Sagging Gate

Sagging is one of the most common structural problems in gates. Both slide and swing gates are susceptible to this issue. Sagging can be caused by several factors, including the following:

• The gate operator is too small. Gate operators need to be chosen according to the weight and size of the gate. If the gate is too large and heavy for the operator, it may begin to sag.

• Hinge welds or hardware are loose, weak, or damaged. When this occurs, these components can no longer properly support the gate.
  
  
• The support post is leaning. If the support post starts to lean, this will cause the gate to drag. Unbalanced support posts need to be reinstalled.
  
  
• Soil movement has occurred. Changes in the soil under and around the gate system can cause the gate to become unbalanced and to sag.

Most of these issues are the result of poor installation. This is why it’s so important to have a qualified professional install and service your residential gate.

Mitigating Wear and Tear

Structural problems such as cracking and buckling are frequently the result of general wear and tear. It’s normal for components to begin to weaken after many years of use. However, gate upkeep can go a long way in helping to potentially extend the lifespan of your gate parts and systems. We recommend the following maintenance schedule:

• Every two or three months clean your gate and inspect it for track issues, damage, and rust.
• Every six months get the pressure in the hydraulic system inspected by a professional.
• Every year clean and lubricate the moving gate parts including the hinges, chains, wheels, and tracks based on the instructions and advice from your owner’s manual.

In addition, you should get your gate system serviced by a professional at least once a year to keep it running smoothly and extend its lifespan.

For an in-depth guide to maintaining your gate, read our past article on this subject.

Professional Gate Installation and Repair In Western Canada

If you’re having any issues with your driveway gate, or if it’s due for a service call, turn to the experienced team at Creative Door Services™. We’ll ensure that your residential gate is structurally sound and working smoothly. We also carry and install customized automatic swing gates and slide gates if you’re due for a replacement.

For more information about our gate services or for a free quote, contact us at one of our locations in Vancouver, British Columbia; Kelowna, British Columbia; Calgary, Alberta; Edmonton, Alberta, Fort McMurray, Alberta; Regina, Saskatchewan; Saskatoon, Saskatchewan; and Winnipeg, Manitoba.