How Often Should You Service Your Gates Test ? VI

Despite being the most front-facing feature of your property, gate servicing often ends up on the bottom of the priority list when it comes to maintenance. Whether you have automatic electric gates or manual property barriers installed, you need to make sure that they are working in tip-top condition at all times.

Overlooking your gate maintenance doesn’t just affect the look of your property, it can lead to bigger problems like security breaches. A gate that does not close properly will not stop strangers from entering your place unchecked, or perhaps wild animals if you’re living in a more wooded area. At the same time, overzealously inspecting your gates can feel redundant and unnecessary. So how often are you really supposed to have your gates serviced?

Commercial vs. Residential

The frequency of your gate maintenance depends on the type of property the gate is built on, mostly based on how often they are used. For commercial properties, your gates are the first thing that customers see. A broken gate system can become a hassle for customers and potentially affect their impression of your company.

Because commercial gates are put to work more often than residential ones, it is important to have them checked every 6 months. Frequent gate inspections can deter potential problems in the motor, hinges or even in the gate alignment.

For residential properties, inspections twice a year are recommended. However, it is important that if you notice any squeaking or weird noise from your gates, or perhaps a slower than usual movement, as well as the presence of rust, it is recommended to have it checked to prevent further damage. Ignoring small problems can lead to bigger and costlier repairs down the road.

What To Look Out For

When you have your gates serviced, make sure to pay extra attention to certain parts of your gate. If you have an automatic gate installed, it’s important to check if the motor is working without any jamming or unusual noise.

At the same time, heavy gates can sometimes fall off the track, leading to sagging and misaligned mechanisms. Let your technician know if you’ve noticed any dragging or difficulty when you operate your gates. This might mean that your gates require a re-alignment.

It is also important to have your gates serviced to make sure that they function properly: safety checks like reinforcing safety barriers and emergency fire exit functions are vital to a well-maintained gating system. At the same time, your gates should be easy to use, especially for those who often need assistance like children, the elderly and PWDs. Make sure that all your remote controls are working properly and replace any parts that malfunction.

Home Maintenance

Of course, you don’t have to wait 6 months or a year to maintain your gate’s appearance and operation. Simple things like clearing your driveway of pebbles, errant branches or other obstructions can go a long way in keeping your gate like new for a long time. You can also regularly clean the motor box, control box and sensors with a soft cloth and all-purpose cleaner, and check the hinges and tracks for signs of rust, and wear and tear. Preventive maintenance can save you time and money otherwise spent in waiting for the problem to become bigger before taking action.

It’s also useful to invest in high-quality gates that don’t rot, rust, twist or warp, no matter how much you use them. Enforce offers fully aluminum gates that are lightweight and low-maintenance. Whether you’re looking for swinging, sliding or folding gates, Enforce Automatics is the one-stop solution for supply, installation and maintenance of commercial and residential gates. Find yours today at enforce.com.sg