Gate automation for businesses and commercial buildings contributes to privacy and security, benefiting customers and employees alike. Automatic gates come in two main types, sliding and swinging. They distinct advantages and disadvantages, which you should consider before scheduling installation.

Swinging Gate

While swinging automatic gates are more commonly used for residential applications, they offer an inexpensive price and quiet operation that appeals to many business owners. They’re also easy to install since they don’t require steel beams or concrete work and offer low maintenance because there are no tracks to keep clean. Swinging gates welcome visitors with a classic element that suits a wide variety of commercial enterprises, such as botanic gardens and contemporary commercial building complexes.

The main drawback of swinging gates is the amount of driveway space they take up while in use. They’re also susceptible to heavy winds that can cause their motors to work overtime and subsequently wear out quicker.

Sliding Gate

Among the main advantages of sliding gates is the lack of space they take up while in use, making them ideal for shorter driveways. They’re unaffected by wind, plus they’re difficult to breach, keeping commercial premises extra secure. If a concrete slab or steel beam is already in place, sliding gates may be cheaper to install than swinging options. 

On the other hand, a lack of existing infrastructure will increase the installation cost and involvement. While trackless options are available, swinging automatic gates with tracks must be cleaned periodically to prevent obstruction-related operation issues. Sliding gates are also noisier.

Discuss your automatic gate needs with Automatic Door Specialists. Serving Oahu, HI, and the neighbor islands for over 30 years, the door and gate company’s technicians are certified by the American Association of Automated Door Manufacturers (AAADM). Call (808) 678-8880 today to schedule installation, or learn more about their gate automation services online.