Category: SAC Fence - page 3

Electronic Driveway Gates Make Your Entrance Unique

Your home should be as unique as you are.  One way that this can be accomplished is by installing an electronic driveway gate.  Not only do driveway gates offer an unbeatable first impression they offer security, privacy and convenience to homeowners.  Whether you choose an aluminum, wrought iron or wooden entry gate it is an ideal way to finish off your driveway.  You can really give your home the wow factor with the installation of an entry gate.

Using a driveway gate along with a perimeter fence enhances the landscape, promotes security and offers privacy that nothing else can.  Installing flowers and trees enhance the landscape but don’t promote security or privacy.  A home alarm or video system promotes security but does nothing to enhance the landscape.  Shrubs and bushes can offer some privacy but do very little for security.  Only perimeter fencing and driveway gates offer your home the luxury of all three.

Perimeter fencing is also beneficial in keeping children and pets within a safe boundary.  This is especially important when you live in a neighborhood or on a busy street with lots of traffic.  The fence is a great barrier marking property boundaries while working to improve the aesthetics of your home.

When you choose a driveway gate for your home you can be confident that the gate you choose is known for its strength and endurance.  This is especially true when you choose aluminum and wrought iron driveway gates.  With the power coating that is applied to both wrought iron and aluminum the gates remain beautiful without much maintenance at all.  They are designed to withstand a variety of climates and can be paired with gate operators intended to do the same.  They also offer a variety of designs, styles and colors to match or compliment fencing and your home’s exterior.

Consider if a swing or slide gate is best for your driveway location.    A swing gate is the most visually appealing.  It however requires a large opening radius depending on the length of the gate.  A sliding gate eliminates that issue and eliminates that issue if space is limited.  The gate opener you choose is dependent upon nothing other than personal preference.

Both gate options can be paired with several openers.  You can choose from wired or wireless options.  You can choose a battery operated opener, one run on solar power only or on powered by a combination of batteries and solar power.  There are keypad operators with intercoms and keypads, keycard options, remote controls or even using the telephone.  Each option has features that work better for your lifestyle.

Choosing an electronic entry gate to finish your driveway is a no brainer.  The only real decisions you need to make is what material you will use, what operator you desire and which entry control system will be the most convenient for your needs.

SAC Fence Michigan offers a variety of electronic entry gates, access control entry systems and fence options for homeowners to choose from.  You will find a variety of fencing options online at http://www.sacfencemi.com/.

Installing Electronic Entry Driveway Gates

The number of electronic entry gates installed is increasing as new subdivisions are developed and privacy within ones home environment becomes more and more sacred.  With every electronic investment there come advantages and disadvantages to weigh.  Although the advantages outweigh the disadvantages when installing an electronic driveway gate there are disadvantages that must be considered.

One of the main advantages with an electronic driveway gate is the added security to your family home and property.  Anyone that enters the area must provide a secure connection to open the gate.  Gate entry comes in several different forms from remote controls to key pads depending on what the owner desires.  This reduces the number of unwanted visitors to the property as they are unable to enter the area due to a driveway that is blocked by a secure gate.  To allow visitors into the property the owner will need to open the gate.  This allows the resident to verify visitors before entry.

Another benefit that comes along with having an electronic driveway gate or entrance gate is the increase in value to your home.  It gives your property or subdivision an upper class status as electronic entries have become a symbol of wealth.  Buyers have noted choosing one home over another when looking to buy because of the addition of an entry gate.

Electronic gates have a convenience that older gates don’t; the ability to open and close them without leaving the comfort of their vehicles. When the weather is less than perfect or you get home later than normal there is no need to exit the vehicle to open and close the gate.   With remote controlled entry and gate operators the gate opens and closes from the convenience of your vehicle.

Gate operators are available in two different styles to choose from including swinging and sliding options.   Sliding gate operators are perfect for spaces with limited access as they conveniently slide into themselves when opening.  Swing gates are perfect when your space is unlimited and flat.

The main disadvantage that comes with purchasing and installing an electric gate is the expense.  It is a large financial commitment; though this home improvement cost is usually recouped with the increase in equity to the home.  Another disadvantage can come when choosing the material in which to use for your new fence.   If you choose a wooden gate you will need to provide yearly maintenance to keep it in working order unlike aluminum which is basically maintenance free.

Another disadvantage can come during a power failure or malfunctioning system.  This is true of all electrical components.  A battery backup can be installed to protect against power failures but nothing can fully prevent the inconvenience of a system that malfunctions.

As you can see the advantages far outweigh the disadvantages that come along with installing an electronic entrance gate. If you have the financial resources an aluminum entry gate is the ideal addition to any home driveway.

SAC Fence Michigan offers a variety of electronic entry gates, access control entry systems and fence options for homeowners to choose from.  You will find a variety of fencing options online at http://www.sacfencemi.com/.

Tips When Comparing Entry Driveway Gates

When comparing entry systems a driveway gate is one of the most effective methods that can be used to keep your home or business secure and inaccessible.  Depending on the level of security you desire along with your budget you have a variety of options to choose from with your entry gate system.  You will want to take into consideration the size and variety of vehicles that will be entering the premise to prevent entry and exit hassles.  All while concentrating on the size, strength and features you desire in an entry gate.

Consideration When Comparing Driveway Gates

Size of the Driveway Gate: The mistake many people make when purchasing an entry system is that they size the gate off of the size of their vehicle without the consideration of other vehicles that may need to enter.  Entry gates must be large enough that emergency vehicles can safely enter and exit the area without hassle.  Leave additional space to prevent accidents and mishaps that can come with automatic driveway gates.

Entry Access System:  When choosing an access control system for your driveway gate the greatest consideration should be ease of use.  A manual entry system has the same inconveniences that come a conventional entry way.  You will have to enter and exit the vehicle each and every time you open and close the gate.  This also leaves room for the gate to be easily accessed by others.  Choose an entry system that allows for automatic entry.  This can be in the form of a remote control, key pad or several other options. Automatic entry access systems are growing in popularity due to their effectiveness in providing privacy, security and convenience.

Driveway Gate Design:  A driveway gate has two different design options: sliding or swing.  There are also several different ornamental style options to choose from as well.  Swing gates are often less expensive than sliding gates.  Sliding gates need adequate space on both sides of the gate where as a sliding gate needs additional room to the front and back of the entrance.   Both options are popular amongst homeowners and commercial users.  The deciding factor for which is better for your entry way will be the space in which it is to be installed.

Material Durability: Your driveway entry gate must be made from a material that is made for durability in the climate you live.  It must be resistant to the harsh weather of your area.  Consider the materials sturdiness and maintenance level as well when picking a material for your fence.  Wooden entry gates are beautiful but require expensive upkeep to keep them looking as if they were just installed whereas aluminum and wrought iron gates are a bit more expensive upfront they don’t require the intense maintenance of wood.

SAC Fence Michigan offers a variety of electronic entry gates, access control entry systems and fence options for homeowners to choose from.  You will find a variety of fencing options online at http://www.sacfencemi.com/.

Secure Your Home with A Driveway Entrance Gate

A top priority for many of us as homeowners is the ability to protect our home and family.  We live by the philosophy that more is better and it’s better to be safe than sorry.  Home security has recently become a bigger issue than it ever has been before.  With increases in technology and electronic entry gates putting a home security plan in place is simpler than ever before.

Securing the entrance and the perimeter of the yard and driveway is a key element in home security. An aluminum entrance gate is not only attractive to look at they are a major component in securing your home and keeping unwanted people off of your property entirely.  Security gates are also helpful in that they keep small children and pets inside the property.  When installing an electronic entry gate ask your insurance provider about discounts in premiums.  It is also important to note that the money spent on a driveway gate is often recouped in the equity it brings to your home’s value.

For optimal security install an automatic gate operator to control opening and closing the driveway gate.  This alleviates the need for you to physically open and shut the gate.  The convenience makes the fence more likely to be used all the time.  Exiting the car to open the gate presents a security issue in itself, especially at night.  Gate operators are fairly inexpensive to install and operate.  Many systems are run off of solar energy therefore making them even less expensive to operate.

You will have the choice to in regards to access options as well when you choose an electronic entry gate.  There are several options ranging from telephone entry systems, remote openers, key cards and key pads.  No matter what options you choose make sure to update it often.  Never leave the same code in place for an extended period of time.  Another thing to think about is personalizing the code so that each visitor has a unique identification code.  This will allow you to know exactly who is entering and exiting the property at all times.

Security gates on the driveway and fencing around the perimeter of your homes yard are just one of the few ways to secure your home.  Consider installing lights that detect motion as well as security cameras.  This will allow you to see exactly what is going on at all times within the property without having to leave the safety or security of your home.  This is also a great feature for when you are on vacation as well.

SAC Fence Michigan offers a variety of electronic entry gates, access control entry systems and fence options for homeowners to choose from.  You will find a variety of fencing options online at http://www.sacfencemi.com/.

Tips for Choosing the Right Material For Your Fence and Gate

Home owners have many choices when it comes to choose a material for the fence and gates for their yards and driveways.  The material you choose will be determined upon what your needs are.  Is the goal of installing a new fence or driveway gate to keep your kids and pets contained?  Are you looking for more privacy?  Is the reason you are installing a new fence simply to boost your property value and give the yard a nice look?  You also need to take into account the cost of the fence, the maintenance level, neighborhood restrictions and of course finding a contractor to install it.

Choose the Best Fence For Your Yard

When it comes to choosing a fence for your yard it is important to prioritize your needs over your wants or desires.  You may think you want a privacy fence but a picket fence may be better.  When you go to sell your home a privacy fence may look like you are trying to hide something when in reality all you need is a fence that looks nice and helps to contain critters and kids.

Consider Fence Maintenance

Certain fencing materials are more high maintenance than others.  Aluminum is practically maintenance free where as wood needs to be maintained with painting and staining yearly.  Another material that is fairly free from maintenance is vinyl.  White vinyl fencing shows stains and visible wear unlike aluminum.

The one drawback of aluminum or vinyl fencing is if it is to get damaged it may be difficult to find a replacement several years later.  Whereas wood fence is fairly common place and can be easily replicated to replace worn or damaged pieces.

Check With Your Local Home Owners Association

Living in a subdivision requires that you follow the rules of your home owners association.  HOA rules may govern the material, height and style of fencing you can choose.  If you install the incorrect material you risk legal fines and the expense of having to purchase another fence later on down the road.

Choose A Contractor To Install Your Fence and Driveway Gate

The final step in the process is to order and install your new fence and gate.  Make sure you hire a fence contractor that secures all of the building permits needed to install your fence.  The contractor you hire is responsible for planning for the installation including checking property lines.  It is crucial that the fence is installed within your property boundaries.  If the fence is located on even a corner of your neighbor’s lawn they are legally able to remove it.  This can be expensive as well as cause unnecessary turmoil with your neighbors.

SAC Fence Michigan offers a variety of electronic entry gates, access control entry systems and fence options for homeowners to choose from.  You will find a variety of fencing options online at http://www.sacfencemi.com/.

Choosing The Right Fence Material For Your Home

Choosing a fence for your home is not something that should be considered lightly. It is a key element in the visual appeal of your home’s exterior design. Take into consideration the privacy and level of security you desire as well when selecting a fence for your home and landscape.  A fence that is installed properly is an element that ever homeowner wants.  Below are some styles to consider when looking into fences for your home.  Don’t only consider the look, privacy level or level of security but consider the maintenance levels and benefits to each type of material in fencing.

Aluminum Fencing

Aluminum fencing is one of the most durable, maintenance free, aesthetically pleasing materials available on the market.  It is also one of the most convenient materials to order and install as well.  Aluminum fencing comes in many several styles and colors to choose from.  It is definitely one of the most desirable options in fencing.

Wood Fencing

Wood fencing is a popular choice when considering a fence.  It offers a great deal of privacy given the different height panels available in wooden fencing.  Wood offers the benefit of being affordable and attractive.  Wooden fences offer a warm, welcoming feel to your home without necessarily breaking the bank.  If taken care of properly a wood fence can last a lifetime.

Vinyl Fencing

Vinyl fencing is in a category of all of its own.  It is not only affordable but nearly four times more flexible and is five times studier than wooden fence.  Another benefit of vinyl fence is that it is basically maintenance free.  With its strong resistance to paint, graffiti and unwanted stains will not settle in ensuring the fence stays looking as new as the day it was installed.  All you need to clean and maintain vinyl is some soap and water; it will look as good as new.  Vinyl may be a bit more expensive to install at first upfront but given the lifespan and maintenance free nature it is a popular option over cheaper fence materials.

Chain Link Fencing

Chain link doesn’t do much for privacy or aesthetics but it does keep pets and children in the yard and outsiders out.  The major benefit of chain link fencing is the cost and that it is durable and fairly maintenance free.  With a bit of creativity and smart landscaping chain link fencing can be made into something beautiful and cut the neighbors view off a bit.

SAC Fence Michigan offers a variety of electronic entry gates, access control entry systems and fence options for homeowners to choose from.  You will find a variety of fencing options online at http://www.sacfencemi.com/.

Decisions To Make When Purchasing A Gate Operator

Many of us are trying to find new ways to keep our families safe while at home.  One of the ways we can do this is by adding privacy fencing and electronic entrance gates.  When purchasing an entrance gate you need to consider the gate operator that will allow the gate to function via remote control, keyless entry or other different types of control systems.  When it comes to purchasing a gate operator there are several things to consider before finalizing the purchase.  Below you will find a list of considerations that will allow you to make the best decision possible when choosing a gate operator for your electronic entry gate system.

Considerations When Choosing A Gate Operator

1)      Consider the type of gate that the operator will be used in conjunction with.  Do you have a swing gate, a sliding gate or a rolling gate?  You also need to consider if the gate is a single or double gate.  There are a variety of gate operators that are specific to your gate so choose one that is meant to work specifically with the system you have installed.

2)      Make sure you know the weight and length of your gate.  You won’t want to purchase a gate operator that is under powered for the size of your entry gate.  If you purchase one that is underpowered your gate it will not function properly.  Your fence will end up being underpowered and in the long run the decision will be one you come to regret.  Purchase a gate operator that is meant to specifically power your gates weight and length.

3)      Determine what type of power that should be used in conjunction with your entry gate.  All gate operators require a source of electricity to power them.  Low voltage, battery systems are simple and easy to use and to install.  You will still need an electricity source to power the low voltage battery system.  This can come in a simple outlet installed close to the operator, or even a solar powered source; both will help to keep the battery source charged.

Not all gate operators will be able to use solar power as a power source.   When purchasing a gate operator, be sure that if you plan on using solar power that your system is compatible.   The sun can be used to power your gate operator if you chose a system that works in that fashion.  Other systems require the use of good old fashion electricity in which an electrical source can be placed in a location close to the gate operator.

These are just some of the basics to think about when choosing a gate operator and entry fence for the safety of your home and family.

SAC Fence Michigan offers a variety of electronic entry gates, access control entry systems and fence options for homeowners to choose from.  You will find a variety of fencing options online at http://www.sacfencemi.com/.

Securing Your Home or Business With An Electronic Entry Gate

What do you do to keep your home and business secured?  Is a top priority keeping your family safe?  One way that many homeowners and business owners alike are providing extra security is by installing electronic entrance gates.  Here a few pieces of advice and some tips when you are looking to purchase and install a driveway entry gate.

Safety is a top concern and priority, especially when it comes to the security of your home and family.  This has made the need for products such as home alarms, electric gates, driveway gates and CCTV cameras.  There are never ending benefits in adding these measures to your home.  Driveway gates not only bring security and safety to your home but also an aesthetic beauty to the space as well.  An electronic entrance gate also adds to the value of the home or business.  The convenience of a gate is an added benefit above and beyond the fact it will keep what is important to you safe.

In order to find a gate and operator that work well with your home environment you need to consider several factors.  Below you will find several points that will help you to make an educated driveway gate purchase.

1)      One of the main reasons people look to have an electronic entry gate installed is for security.  With this in mind, it is important that the fence is installed correctly.  One mistake during the installation process can affect your safety.  Consider the installation of accessories that will add to the safety of the driveway gate.  Accessories such as photo cells and warning lights will help with the safety of your gate.

2)      The gate operator powers the driveway entry gate.  In order to properly power the gate it is important that the operator supplies enough power.  Most gate operators work off a 230v system or a 24v system.  The 230v system is easy to install and a bit less expensive then the 24v system.  The one benefit of the 24v system is that it uses a transformer other than that it has all the same benefits as the 230v system.

3)      Take into consideration the warranty that is available on both the gate and the operator.  You want to choose to purchase from a supplier that offers a substantial warranty.  The expense to replace or repair a gate operator and electronic entry gate should be covered by the warranty.

4)      Determine what activations system will be the most convenient for you and your family.  Will using a remote control work best or a key pad entry system?  What type of control system is best for your home or businesses security?

Hopefully the above tips will allow you to make an educated choice when it comes to choosing a driveway entry gate and operator.

SAC Fence Michigan offers a variety of electronic entry gates, access control entry systems and fence options for homeowners to choose from.  You will find a variety of fencing options online at http://www.sacfencemi.com/.

Security In Electronic Entrance Gates

Electronic entrance gates are a vital part of many home protection plans.  Homeowners are not willing to risk the safety and security of their family. Therefore find it incredibly important to protect them with the use of driveway gate and fence enclosure.  Safety is not the only benefit derived from installing an entry gate.  They can also be used to enhance the natural beauty of your home and landscape.  Gated communities often have the most stunning entrances.  This is because of their dramatic gates; they simply improve the aesthetics of the surrounding environment.

When looking to purchase a gate you will find yourself a bit overwhelmed by the number of options you have in gate designs.  Choosing the perfect driveway gate needs some serious considerations.  There are a number of things to keep in mind before choosing one for your home and driveway.  Below you will find some tips to help you in purchasing the perfect the perfect entry gate for your driveway.

In order to get a feel for the types of gates that are on the market today it is important to research the different designs and types of gates that are available.  It is important that you establish what the purpose of the gate is as well.  A great place to look is in home magazines and the internet.  See what has worked and what hasn’t.  This will help you come up with a useful design with your own fence.

There are a variety of materials that gates can be created from.  The material you choose for your gate matters.  There are variations in maintenance and normal wear.  The most durable, commonly installed material in gates is aluminum.  Aluminum is practically maintenance free and looks beautiful in a variety of different environments.  Other options in fencing include wood, chain link, vinyl.

You will want to inspect the layout of your driveway in order to determine if you are looking at purchasing a swing gate or sliding gate.  Both options are popular and require the correct landscape to be installed.  If your driveway is on a hill or slope of any type it is not practical to install a swinging gate.

A realistic budget going into purchasing a driveway gate is important.  Homeowners should understand that gate entry systems are not cheap.  The initial expense, on top of regular maintenance fees make fence and driveway entrance gate systems a significant investment.

SAC Fence Michigan offers a variety of electronic entry gates, access control entry systems and fence options for homeowners to choose from. You will find a variety of fencing options online at http://www.sacfencemi.com/.

Winter Care For Your Driveway Gate Operators

Folks in the north have already been experiencing some super cold winter temperatures this year. With colder temperatures comes the need to take special care of outside electrical systems. The cold weather is an obstacle for electronics. Most are rated for all weather conditions but when those conditions turn extreme as they have been in past years it is important to take special care to ensure that they remain unscathed by the frosty temperatures.

Gate operators that make it possible to remotely enter your community or driveway are one of the pieces of equipment that require special care when winter approaches. In order to ensure that the electronic entrance gate continues to work properly winter preparations need to be taken to prepare the gate operator. Here are some tips on how to properly prepare your electronic driveway gate for the northern winter climate.

5 Tips For Proper Gate Operator Care In The Winter

Before you have your gate operator installed be sure to ask questions related to how well the operators performs in inclement weather. Purchase an operator that is specifically made for the most extreme conditions your area has experienced. Purchasing a gate operator that is specifically built for your weather will help to ensure it remains functional throughout even the harshest winter conditions.

Inspect the belts that are used throughout the gate operator. If you see any signs of wear the belts should be replaced. Check the belt for divots, cracks and stress fractures. If any wear or the belts alignment is questionable it is time to replace the belt. Don’t have the wait until it breaks mentality. Prevention is the key element to avoid costly repairs later on. Also, working on gate operators is more favorable in weather that is not bone chilling.

In the late fall grease the hinges on the electronic entry gate. This is true of both swing gates and sliding gates. All fittings should be greases using sufficient lubricant. Check out the owner’s manual on both the gate and operator to be sure you have not missed any area that should be greased. If the gate sticks or is left to freeze this adds additional stress on the opening and closing mechanism. The gate operator will try to open the gate even when it is frozen. This will create a great deal of stress on the operator and the gate.

Inspect gears internally on the gate operator. Be sure to check the type of grease you are using to ensure it is the proper type for your operator. There are special lubricants that are created with your gate in mind.

The last tip should be fairly simple to achieve; use your gate frequently especially when temperatures are cold. When a gate sits it is likely to be prone to breaking. Using the gate keeps the hinges moving, the operator running and the inner gears stay flexible.

SAC Fence Michigan offers a variety of electronic entry gates, access control entry systems and fence options for homeowners to choose from.  You will find a variety of fencing options online at http://www.sacfencemi.com/.