Guide to Installing Automatic Sliding Gate

Why do you need to install an automatic sliding gate?

Automatic sliding gates are an excellent security solution that can be installed in residential and commercial properties. They provide the ultimate protection against intruders, even those who have managed to get past your front door security system.

They are also a great way of controlling traffic flow in and out of your property. It is possible to programme them so that they only open when someone approaches them, or they can be left open all day if you want people to be able to come through at their own leisure.

However, installing a sliding automatic gate is not a do-it-yourself project. It is important that you get the installation done by a professional who has the expertise and experience required for this task.

This is because the sliding auto gate system needs to be installed in a way that it can smoothly slide without any hiccups or jerks, and also so that it does not make any noise when it moves.

How to install an automatic sliding gate?

Installing a sliding automatic gate will require a lot of consideration in terms of the track and parts needed for the installation. And this article will help you with the installation process and it will also show you what to look out for when installing a sliding gate.

Bear in mind that you will need to place the sliding automatic gate far enough from the road to prevent traffic congestion and is installed in a location that provides adequate clearance between it and adjacent structures when opening and closing to reduce the risk of entrapment.



1. Install the sliding automatic gate footing

The footing of your sliding automatic gate plays a huge role in ensuring that your gate slides smoothly without any hiccups or jerks. If you have a concrete footing for your driveway, you’re halfway there but there needs to be somewhere for the gate to open and a pad for the motor.

As such, you will need to hack the ground to provide a solid footing for your gate as well as to put the metal track in place. However, if you have a gravel driveway, you will need to dig a channel across your driveway and pour some concrete for a sturdy footing.

2. Install the posts for your sliding gate

An automatic sliding gate typically has two posts, each positioned on one side of the gate to receive and secure your sliding gate into place. Because they do not bear the weight of the gate, the posts function to stop your gate from falling over.

If the ground of your driveway is hard, you will need to dig a hole wider than the post and pour a small amount of concrete mix into it. Then, you place the post and add more concrete around it. This will secure the posts into place and prevent them from falling over.

3. Install your sliding automatic gate

Most automatic sliding gates have wheels fitted at the bottom, which makes them easier to move around without scratching them. With your sliding automatic gate in place, lay the metal track on the ground to get a rough estimate of its supposed location.

If you’re using guide rollers, use a clamp on the bracket to prevent your gate from moving around. Place the gate on the track and fit the guide rollers so you can test whether the gate opens and closes smoothly on the track.

4. Check the clearances

Like the height clearances you see for an underpass in Malaysia, you will need to check the clearances for your sliding automatic gate. This is especially necessary if you’re using a U-shaped guide bracket.

Make sure that it has at least 10mm clearance between the top of the gate and a guide bracket for the entire length of the gate. If there is a slope across your driveway and the top rail is level, then this would be the highest point. You can then fit the guide bracket permanently using suitable hardware.

5. Install the metal track

With the guide bracket in place, you can remove the sliding automatic gate to install the metal track permanently. You will need to mark the positions and drill mounting holes in the track accordingly.

Before you fix the track in place, put the gate back on the track and check that it is plumb and lines up with the posts and keeper. If it doesn’t, you will need to do some adjustments. Once done, pin the ends first and check that the gate lines up accordingly, then install the remaining pins.

And there you have it; a guide to installing a sliding autogate. If you’re looking to install an autogate system for your home, consider engaging The One Control for your security concerns. With more than 20 years of experience in the security industry, you can be assured of our team of professionals in both services and security products.