Security is a large issue for many families. The feeling of safety within ones home is of the utmost importance. How do you go about creating a safe environment for your family and home? One way that people are finding security and peace is through the use of automatic gates and fences.
When thinking about installing an automatic gate and metal fence around your yard there are a few questions to ask yourself. It is true that steel fences and automatic gates have gone down in price relative to previous decades however still is a major home renovation that needs thought given to it. Before signing the papers and having fence companies out to give you a quote there are a few things to think about.
First thing is why would you think your home is better off having a gate? This answer can vary greatly. One reason is for the extra sense of security it gives in keeping unwanted visitors out. It also helps to restrict the boundaries for animals and small children. Automatic fences that are closed send a strong signal to keep out. You make yourself less of a target for thieves.
Another thing to ask yourself is if you need a gate that is automatic or can you live with a manual gate? How often do you anticipate the gate being closed? If the answer is every time someone enters or exists the answer is clear. Although if you are only going to close the gate when the kids are in the yard or when you are on vacation the answer is going to need some more thought. Automatic gates are much pricier than manual gates because the access system used to control them are expensive.
Another thing to think about is the space the fence will be used in. Are you looking at a fence that will slide or swing? Sliding fences take up less space and give full access to the yard when coming in and out. Swing fences take up space within the yard and need room to swing open and closed. A lot of what you choose will be determined on the layout of your driveway. If you are on a large slope a sliding gate is obviously more practical then a swing gate.
With your fence and gate what type of style do you desire? Ultimate privacy is given using a paneled fence while ultimate aesthetic beauty comes from ornate steel fences. This will depend a lot upon the look, feel and what you wish the fence to accomplish.
Another thing you will want to look into is if you want a fence that works on hydraulics which offers owners a quiet entrance and exit. This of course comes with an expense. A cheaper more sound defiant system is one in which an electro mechanical system is used.
What controlled access system is appropriate for your gate? Will you choose something that automatically recognizes your voice, remote control or keypad? The options are endless and really require you to think about how easy you want the access to be.
Another thing to take into consideration is the little ones you are trying to protect. Do you need a fence that offers special safety features? If so what cameras or sensors? Automatic gate options have grown. With technology advancing so rapidly you are sure to find one that fits your budget and need.