If swing gates won't work at your entrance, a sliding gate usually will. It runs sideways along the boundary instead of swinging into the drive, so a short drive, a slope or a busy road stops being a problem. Sliding automation also starts lower than swing gate automation, from £1,400.
Call, text or WhatsApp Adrian on 07855 781433
When a sliding gate makes sense
- The drive is short and you park close to the gate
- The ground rises behind the gate, so swing gates would hit it
- The entrance is wide, busy or exposed to the wind
- You want a gate that's very hard to force open
The one thing you need is space beside the opening, roughly the length of the gate, for it to slide into. Still undecided? Read sliding vs swing electric gates.
Tracked or cantilever
A tracked gate runs on wheels along a rail across the entrance. It's the most common type and the simplest to automate.
A cantilever gate has no rail across the drive at all. It's carried on rollers to one side, which suits gravel, uneven ground and entrances used by people on foot. It needs a bit more side space. See cantilever sliding gates.
Motors and pricing
I fit DEA System sliding gate motors, matched to the gate's weight and how often it's used. Automation starts from £1,400, and new gates from £1,600. The full picture is in sliding gate automation.
Built-in safety
Sliding gates have their own trapping points, at the closing post and where the gate passes the pillar. I guard them, fit photocells and safety edges where needed, and force test every gate to BS EN 12453. Owners can do a few quick checks too – see sliding gate safety checks.
Already got a sliding gate that's playing up?
Jerky movement, stopping halfway or not moving at all usually comes down to the track, the wheels, the rack or the sensors. See common sliding gate problems, or go straight to electric gate repairs.
Call, text or WhatsApp Adrian on 07855 781433 with a photo of your entrance and the space beside it.
Questions people ask me
What does it cost to automate a sliding gate?
From £1,400, depending on the gate's weight and the groundwork.
How much room do I need beside the opening?
About the length of the gate, plus a little extra. A cantilever gate needs more.
Can you motorise the sliding gate I already have?
Usually, if it runs freely on a level track. I'll check the wheels and track first.
Are sliding gates secure?
Very. The motor's gearbox holds the gate shut and there are no hinges to attack.