Upgrading an Old Gate System

If your electric gates are getting on a bit – slow, unreliable, noisy, or just not as safe as they should be – you don't necessarily need to start again. Often, the gates themselves are fine and it's the automation that's tired. Upgrading the right parts can give you a gate that works like new for a fraction of the cost.

Signs it's time to upgrade

• the gate keeps breaking down, and repairs are adding up
• parts for your motor or control board are no longer made
• the gate has no photocells or safety edges, or not enough
• remotes are old fixed-code ones that can be copied
• you want features the old system can't do – app control, battery backup, an intercom
• the gate has never been force tested, or wouldn't pass

What can be upgraded

• Motors – replaced with modern, more reliable units
• Control board – better safety features, smoother running, more options
• Safety devices – extra photocells, safety edges and warning lights
• Receivers and remotes – secure rolling-code remotes
• Access control – keypads, intercoms, fobs and app control
• Battery backup – for power cuts
• Locks – electric locks or maglocks for extra security

Make it safe as well as working

Many older gates were installed before today's safety standards, or by installers who didn't bother. When I upgrade a system, I look at the whole gate, not just the broken part. That includes the right safety devices and force testing to BS EN 12453, so you end up with a gate that's safe for your family and visitors.

Upgrade or replace?

If the gates, hinges and posts are sound, upgrading the automation is usually the way to go. If the gates are rotten, badly sagging or the posts are failing, it may be better to start fresh. I'll give you an honest view. See repair or replace?

Read more

• Upgrading old gate motors and control boards
• Smart and app control

Send me photos of your motors and control box. Call, text or WhatsApp Adrian on 07855 781433.

Questions people ask me