Automating a sliding gate is often the simplest and most cost-effective way to get an electric gate. One motor, one gate, and no need for room to swing.
Sliding gate automation starts from £1,400.
What's involved
- A solid base for the motor. The motor sits on a concrete plinth beside the gate, at the end the gate slides towards.
- A toothed rack fixed along the gate, which the motor's gear drives.
- Track and guides. The gate runs on wheels on a level ground track, held upright by guide rollers at the top. (A cantilever gate runs on rollers to one side instead.)
- End stops and a closing post, so the gate stops in the right place every time.
- Safety devices – photocells, safety edges and guarding of trapping points where they're needed.
- Control board, power and access control – remotes, keypad, intercom and so on.
Can my existing sliding gate be automated?
Usually, if:
- the gate runs freely along its whole length when you push it by hand
- the track is straight, level and firmly fixed
- the wheels and guide rollers are in good condition
- there's room for the motor at the end of the gate's travel
If the track is cracked or the wheels are worn, that needs sorting first – a motor won't fix a gate that's hard to push.
The kit I use
I fit DEA System sliding gate motors, choosing the model to suit the gate's weight and how often it's used. Heavy commercial gates get heavy-duty motors – it's not worth skimping.
Extras worth considering
- Battery backup so the gate works in a power cut
- Pedestrian mode – opening the gate just wide enough to walk through
- Exit loop in the driveway on commercial sites
- App or GSM control – see keypads, fobs and app control
Fitted safely
Sliding gates have trapping points at the closing edge and where the gate passes the posts. I deal with all of them, and force test every gate to BS EN 12453. See sliding gate safety checks.
Call, text or WhatsApp Adrian on 07855 781433 – a photo of the gate, the track and the space at each end helps me quote.
Questions people ask me
How much does it cost to automate a sliding gate?
From £1,400, depending on the gate's weight, the groundwork and how far the power has to come.
How long does it take?
Often a day for a straightforward existing gate.
Will the motor work if my gate is hard to push?
It'll struggle and wear out early. The gate needs to run freely first – I'll check it.