Choose Driveway Gates for Security and Style
Automatic gates for homes in Bedfordshire offer the perfect blend of security and comfort which is why electric gates are now hugely popular with homeowners looking for an affordable and effective long-term security investment. With an extensive range of systems and styles available, 1st Choice Security Systems can help you to find the ideal automated gate solution to match your needs.
1st Choice Security Systems is a local provider of driveway gates for residential properties in Bedfordshire. Our bespoke electric gates are designed to seamlessly integrate with your home’s style and aesthetic and are fitted with precision to make them the perfect deterrent to trespassers, intruders, and unwanted visitors. Read on to find out more about the types of gate we fit, and the materials we use to manufacture them.
3 Benefits of Installing Automatic Gates for Homes in Bedfordshire
Security is of utmost importance to homeowners; our residential driveway gates provide an additional layer of protection around your home, acting as a deterrent to potential criminals. When integrated with a video or audio door entry system, they grant you full control over who can approach your property. Enjoy the peace of mind that comes with our top-tier automatic gate solutions.
1st Choice Security Systems understands the significance of convenience in our clients’ decision-making process, especially given the unpredictable British climate. To spare them from standing in the rain to operate manual gates, we offer a range of entry methods, including remotes, keypads, and card swipes.
Beyond practicality, our automatic gates for driveways enhance the kerb appeal of your home, turning heads as well as safeguarding your property. Our design and installation team create bespoke driveway gates in wood, metal, or wrought iron, expertly tailored to match your property’s style and colour scheme.
What Will Your Automatic Gates Look Like?
When designing automatic gates for homes in Bedfordshire, 1st Choice focus on two key factors: the material the gates will be made from, and the way the gates operate. We collaborate with clients to find the perfect blend to match their property and their security requirements.
1. Wooden or Metallic Automatic Gates?
When selecting the material for your driveway gates, there are plenty of options to choose from. Each material brings its unique charm and benefits to suit different styles and preferences:
- For a touch of historical elegance, Wrought Iron Gates harken back to the 18th century. Their exquisite filigree designs add a captivating beauty to your property, while still providing unwavering strength, durability, and robustness.
- Hard or Soft Wood Gates exude a timeless appeal, making them a favourite choice for those seeking a traditional gate style. Their natural elegance enhances the overall aesthetics of your property.
- Aluminium Gates, on the other hand, offer a sleek and contemporary feel. With their lightweight construction, they boast remarkable strength and durability. Additionally, they demand minimal maintenance, making them a practical and low-effort option.
Whichever material you choose, 1st Choice Security Systems ensures exceptional craftsmanship and quality, delivering driveway gates that perfectly complement your style and preferences.
2. Swing or Sliding Gates?
Your choice of swing gates or sliding gates may be influenced by the dimensions of your driveway. Here’s how each option may suit your specific needs:
- Swing Gates require some depth to accommodate the gate’s arc when opening and closing. If space is limited, a bi-fold gate can be a suitable solution as it reduces the depth required. Swing gates work best for driveways with ample lateral space.
- Sliding Gates are ideal for driveways with inclines as they glide horizontally, requiring lateral space on one or both sides of the driveway. They are a practical and stylish choice for properties with limited depth but sufficient width.
At 1st Choice Security Systems, we understand that each driveway is unique. If you have a small driveway, our expert team can offer customised solutions to ensure your gates perfectly fit the available space without compromising on style or functionality.
How Durable are Driveway Gates?
At 1st Choice Security Systems, we take immense pride in constructing security gates designed for long-lasting durability. Nevertheless, they face the relentless forces of weather over time. To uphold their peak performance, we strongly advocate regular electric gate maintenance to extend the lifespan of automatic gates for homes in Bedfordshire.
By opting for periodic gate maintenance, you gain the peace of mind that your gates will continue to deliver on their promise of convenience, style, and security for a decade or even more. Our maintenance services ensure that the mechanisms remain in optimal condition, guaranteeing reliable and efficient operation at all times, and in all weather.
Working With 1st Choice Security Systems
1st Choice Security Systems understands how important it is to be able trust installers fitting automatic gates for homes in Bedfordshire. All our engineers are DBS checked, SafeContractor approved, and SSAIB approved. We use a job management system to ensure maximum efficiency and we work to the ISO2001-2015 standard.
Automatic Gates For Driveways – FAQs
Do I Need Planning Permission For Automatic Gates?
If you are considering installing automatic gates, you need to adhere to certain regulations to avoid any legal complications. Here’s a clear breakdown:
- Gate Orientation. Ensure that your gates open inwards towards your property and never outward onto the road, regardless of the circumstances.
- Height and Location. If the automatic gates are entirely located within your property boundaries and stand less than 2 meters in height, you generally do not require planning permission. However, if the gates are situated next to a highway, they should not exceed 1 meter in height.
- Replacing Existing Gates. Replacing an existing gate in the same location does not necessitate planning permission as long as the new gate is of the same height or lower than the original. However, if the new gate exceeds the height of the previous one, you must seek planning permission before proceeding.
By adhering to these guidelines, you can confidently install automatic gates without the need for planning permission, as long as your gates comply with the height and location requirements specified.
Some local authorities require planning permission for electric gate installations. To be on the safe side, it is best to check with the local council.
Can Automatic Gates Be Opened Manually?
At 1st Choice, all our automatic gates for homes in Bedfordshire are equipped with a vital manual override feature to handle power outages. In the event of a power cut, you can rest assured that the manual override will smoothly disengage the motor and lock mechanism, allowing you to effortlessly open and close the gate by hand.
How Long Do Automatic Gate Motors Last?
Regular servicing of automatic driveway gates is essential to maintain the motor in optimal condition. By scheduling an annual service, you ensure the longevity of the gate’s motor, enabling it to function smoothly for an extended period. With reasonable daily usage (approximately 10-15 openings/closings), there is no reason why a well-maintained gate shouldn’t last for an impressive 15 years.
Do Electric Gates Use a Lot of Electricity?
Electricity use is minimal. When they are on standby, electric gates use approximately 100 watts of electricity in a 24hr period. When they are active, they use around 700 watts.
The average cost of electricity per annum for a set of driveway gates in regular use (10-15 times per day) would be around £15.
Do Automatic Gates for Driveways Need Safety Edges?
Safety edges, sometimes referred to as rubber contact strips, are an indispensable feature for any gate that might present trapping, shearing, or crushing hazards. These pressure-sensitive edges serve as a crucial safeguard by detecting obstacles upon contact. In the event of contact with an object or person, they instantly signal the gates to halt and reverse, ensuring a prompt retreat from potential danger.
How Much Do Electric Gates Cost?
The cost of installing bespoke automatic gates for homes in Bedfordshire depends on the size, style, material, and finish. 1st Choice Security installers make a site visit and talk through the options with you. Then we provide a free no obligation quotation for the specific driveway gates you want.
In need of CAMESAFE CCTV systems?
Our CAMESAFE Installers have vast knowledge and experience to be able to offer the required security solutions and automation safety for all our security systems.
Would you like to speak to a 1st Choice engineer about installing automatic gates for your Bedfordshire home? Call us today on 0800 1182414
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