Driveway gate automation in Exeter
Professional driveway gate automation services in Exeter and surrounding areas. Local, reliable handyman - no job too small.
Price Guide
POA
Typical Duration
1+ days
Location
Exeter, Devon
Driveway gates automated professionally - appropriate motors fitted, safety features installed, controls working reliably. Drive in and out without leaving your vehicle, rain or shine.
Stop Getting Out in the Rain
Automated gates transform rural driveways - stay dry, add security, impress visitors. The difference between a system that works reliably and one that's temperamental is professional installation with appropriate equipment.
💡 Pro tip: Solar-powered systems work well for remote gates but battery backup is essential for Devon winter - short days and cloudy weather mean panels don't always generate enough power.
Why Professional Installation Matters
DIY gate automation usually works... until it doesn't. And when it fails, it's expensive to fix.
| ✅ Done Professionally | ❌ DIY Bodge |
|---|---|
| Motors sized correctly for weight | Underpowered, burns out |
| Safety features compliant | Dangerous, illegal, no insurance |
| Weatherproof installation | Corroded, failed |
| Properly earthed and protected | Electrical safety issues |
What You Get
🔧 Complete Automation System
| Stage | What Happens |
|---|---|
| Site survey | Gates assessed, power requirements checked |
| System design | Motors, controls, safety features specified |
| Installation | Motors fitted, controls mounted, power connected |
| Programming | Limits set, remotes configured, tested |
| Safety testing | All safety features checked and certified |
📦 System Ready
- Motors working reliably
- Remote controls programmed
- Safety systems certified
- Fully weatherproofed
Typical Projects
Every gate automation is custom - I quote after site visit. Typical factors:
- Gate type: Swing gates, sliding gates, single or double
- Gate weight: Timber vs metal, size and construction
- Power availability: Mains nearby or solar needed
- Features wanted: Keypads, intercoms, GSM controls
- Safety requirements: Vehicle access, pedestrian safety
Call for free site visit and detailed quote.
Perfect For Your Property If...
✅ Long driveway - tired of getting out in all weathers
✅ Security concerns - want controlled access
✅ Elderly or disabled - getting out of vehicle difficult
✅ Multiple users - delivery access, family members
Why Choose Us for Driveway gate automation in Exeter?
Motors sized for your gates
Safety features installed
Remote controls configured
Weather-resistant installation
What to Expect
Step 1: Site Visit & Quote
I'll inspect your gates, check condition, measure and weigh them, assess power availability, discuss features you want. Provide detailed written quote with equipment specified.
Step 2: Installation
Motors fitted to gates and posts, controller box mounted in protected location, power supply installed or connected, safety sensors positioned, all wiring completed and protected.
Step 3: Programming & Testing
Motor limits set, opening/closing speeds adjusted, remote controls programmed, safety features tested thoroughly. Full handover with instruction on operation and maintenance.
🔧 DIY Tips
Gate automation isn't really a DIY project unless you're competent with electrics and mechanics, but here's what's involved:
🔧 Equipment needed
- Gate motors (sized for weight)
- Control board with receiver
- Power supply or solar panel
- Safety sensors/edges
- Remote transmitters
- Mounting brackets and hardware
📐 Planning considerations
- Check gate weight and choose appropriate motors
- Assess hinge condition (won't work on poor hinges)
- Plan power supply routing
- Consider safety sensor placement
- Check clearances for gate swing/slide
✂️ Installation basics
- Motors must be level and aligned properly
- Gates need to close onto physical stops
- Safety sensors must cover full arc/slide
- All electrical work must comply with regs
- Test thoroughly before regular use
⚠️ Common mistakes
- Undersized motors for gate weight
- Poor weatherproofing of electrics
- Inadequate safety features
- Bad alignment causing excessive wear
- No manual release (essential for power failures)
💡 Pro trick: Install a manual release mechanism that's easy to operate in the dark - power cuts happen and you need to get in/out.
Rather leave it to a pro? No problem - that's what I'm here for. Give me a call.
Good to Know
⚡ Power cuts: All automated gates need manual release for emergencies. Make sure you know how yours works and keep the release key accessible (but not too accessible - security).
Swing vs sliding: Swing gates need clearance space to open (usually inwards). Sliding gates need track and space to slide along. Your site determines which works.
Planning permission: May be needed if gates front a highway or you're in conservation area. Definitely needed for new gate pillars. Check before installation.
Insurance: Some insurers want evidence of safety compliance for automated gates. Keep installation certificates and service records.
Part P regulations: Electrical work on gate automation must comply with Part P building regulations - another reason to use a professional installer.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can any gates be automated?
Most can, but they need to be in decent condition - hinges solid, posts straight, gates not dragging. Heavy timber gates need bigger motors than light metal ones. I'll assess your existing gates and advise if automation is viable or if repairs/replacement needed first.
What's involved in automating gates?
Motors mounted to gates/posts, controller box installed (needs mains power or solar), safety features fitted (sensors, warning lights), remote controls programmed. Might need electrical work running power supply if you haven't got it nearby. Every installation is different.
Do automated gates need safety features?
Yes - safety edges, photocells, or similar to stop gates closing on vehicles/people. It's a legal requirement, not optional. Insurance won't cover you without proper safety systems. I install everything needed to comply with regulations.
How much does gate automation cost?
Hugely variable - depends on gate size/weight, how far motor is from power, whether it's swing or sliding gates, and what features you want. I need to visit and quote properly. Expect thousands, not hundreds. It's specialist work.
What about maintenance after installation?
Annual service recommended - check motors, adjust limits, test safety features, lubricate moving parts. I can arrange servicing or talk you through what needs checking. Motors typically last 10-15 years with proper maintenance.
Driveway gate automation Also Available In:
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01392 964094Request Online QuoteOur Rates
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Make the most of your first hour - I can often tackle several small tasks in one visit. List everything you need done when you call!
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