A question I get all the time: "Once the gate's shut, can somebody just push it open?" The answer depends on how the gate is locked. There are a handful of ways to do it, and the right one depends on the gate, the motor and how much security you need.
1. The motor's own lock
Most electromechanical motors – the overground arms you see on gate leaves, and underground motors buried under the hinge – use irreversible gearing. In plain English, the gearbox won't turn unless the motor drives it, so the gate can't be forced open by pushing it.
- Good for: most domestic swing gates of normal size.
- Watch out for: on long or heavy leaves, someone pushing on the far end of the gate has a lot of leverage on the gearbox. That's where an extra lock earns its keep.
2. Hydraulic locking
Hydraulic motors, like the Fadini systems I fit on heavy gates, can be supplied so the oil in the ram holds the gate locked when it's closed (and open, if you want). It's very strong and very smooth.
- Good for: heavy gates, busy commercial gates and exposed sites where the wind pushes the gate about.
- Watch out for: some hydraulic motors are deliberately "reversible" so you can move the gate by hand – those need a separate lock.
3. Sliding gate gearboxes
Sliding gate motors drive the gate along a toothed rack, and the irreversible gearbox holds the gate closed. A properly set end stop and a closing post or receiver make it more secure still.
- Good for: almost every sliding gate.
- Watch out for: a worn rack or a gate that's lifted off its track can weaken this. Regular servicing sorts that.
4. Electric locks
An electric lock is fitted on the gate leaf and throws a bolt into a keep in the ground or the post when the gate closes. The motor releases it a moment before the gate opens.
- Good for: reversible motors, long leaves and gates that need extra holding power.
- Watch out for: the ground keep needs to stay clear of gravel and leaves, or the bolt can't drop in.
5. Electromagnetic locks (maglocks)
A maglock is a powerful electromagnet on the post and a steel plate on the gate. When powered, it holds the gate closed with a lot of force. They're very popular because there are no moving parts to wear.
- Good for: pedestrian gates, double gates where the leaves meet, and gates that need to hold against the wind.
- Watch out for: most maglocks release when the power goes off. That's handy for emergency exits, but it means the gate isn't held in a power cut unless there's battery backup.
6. Manual locks and drop bolts
An old-fashioned drop bolt into the ground, or a manual lock you set when you're away on holiday, still has its place. Just remember to undo it before you press the remote – a motor straining against a locked gate is a common cause of damage.
At a glance
| Lock type | Strength | Works in a power cut? | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Motor's own lock (irreversible) | Good | Yes – stays locked | Most domestic swing gates |
| Hydraulic lock | Very good | Yes – stays locked | Heavy and commercial gates |
| Sliding gate gearbox | Good | Yes – stays locked | Sliding gates |
| Electric lock | Very good | Usually stays locked | Long leaves, reversible motors |
| Maglock | Very good when powered | No, unless on battery backup | Pedestrian gates, double gates |
| Drop bolt / manual lock | Good | Yes | Holidays, extra security |
What I'd recommend
For a typical pair of driveway gates, the motor's own lock does the job. Where the leaves are long, heavy or catch the wind, I'll add an electric lock or a maglock. On commercial sites I'll look at how the gate's used before suggesting anything.
Whatever lock you have, you must still be able to open the gate by hand in an emergency. Every system I fit has a key-operated manual release – see manual release.
Want a more secure gate?
If you've already got electric gates and you're not happy with how secure they feel, I can usually add a lock to the existing system. Call, text or WhatsApp Adrian on 07855 781433.
Questions people ask me
What's the most secure way to lock an electric gate?
It depends on the gate, but a good irreversible or hydraulic motor plus an electric lock or maglock gives you two layers of holding.
Can I add a lock to my existing electric gates?
Usually, yes. Most control boards have an output for an electric lock or maglock. I'll check yours when I visit.
Will a maglock let my gate open in a power cut?
Most maglocks release without power. If you want the gate held, add battery backup so the lock stays powered.
Do I still need a key?
Yes – every gate needs a manual release so you can open it by hand if the power or the motor fails. Keep that key somewhere you'll find it.