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Aluminium is one of the most widespread metals on Earth. Used in a wide variety of applications from food packaging to aerospace technology, aluminium is a lightweight and abundant metal. It also has the added benefit of maintaining its strength in reuse, meaning that it can be recycled and reused over and over. When it comes to automated gates, aluminium is often a popular choice for several reasons, and it is important to consider the range of benefits it has to offer.
Other materials for automated gates include steel and wood, and when discussing the benefits of aluminium; it is in comparison to these materials. Both steel and wood gates need a high level of regular maintenance, notably, the application of protective barriers to prevent the surface from coming into contact with water and air. Without a protective barrier such as a specialised paint, the combination of water and air causes bare iron to rust and wood will rot. Iron is very heavy and wooden gates get heavier when they absorb water. The additional weight requires a higher powered and less energy efficient gate motor.
Aluminium is a very light metal but still very strong, which is one of the properties that makes it so popular. When used for electric gates, these lightweight properties mean that a lower power gate motor is needed to operate the gates, this also makes the gate motors more energy efficient. A lower powered motor is also safer and a lighter gate reduces the strain on fixtures and hinges, helping them to last longer.
The unique properties of aluminium make it naturally corrosion-resistant, thanks to a thin protective layer of aluminium oxide. This acts as a barrier between the metal and oxygen in the air, preventing layers from peeling off as they do with steel. This natural corrosion-resistance is complimented by a tough outer coating that also supplies the colour or wood-effect finish to the gates.
The variety in the design of aluminium gates is wide. Gates can be made to have a steel or wood effect, meaning that they can retain the aesthetic while benefiting from the properties of aluminium. They are also available in an array of colours and closed or open board designs.
Without the proper maintenance, poorly maintained wooden or steel gates can quickly corrode, costing additional money in repairs or replacements. Aluminium gates require less maintenance but last much longer than a well maintained wooden or steel gate.
There are several things to consider when choosing the right aluminium gate. Firstly, it is worth noting that the variation of colours available can help gates to blend in with the aesthetic of a home or street. If the gates are for business, the colours can be selected to match and promote the brand. Depending on the location of the gates, closed or open board designs can be considered. If there are likely to be high winds in that area, an open board or slatted design is recommended to allow air to pass through the gate. Finally, limitations with space may require a specific type of gate such as sliding or bi-fold. Gates can often be installed in areas where space is restricted. Head over to the rest of our blog for extensive information on which type of gate will suit your requirements.
At Linkcare, all our aluminium gates come with a high-quality finish available in a wide variety of colours. The finish allows us to provide a ten-year guarantee for your aluminium gate with the likelihood of it lasting much longer.
Linkcare is the provider of high quality, aluminium remote-control gates, plus motors and accessories. For product specifications, browse our website to view gate automation kits and extras from a range of trusted suppliers. Contact us via our website or call 01895 232 626 for experienced gate installers and maintenance across the UK.
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