Automatic Driveway Gate Installers - Repair And Installation Cost, Opener Prices In 2024

Automatic Driveway Gate Installers - Repair and Installation Cost, Opener Prices in 2024

An automatic gate is an ideal solution to manage the entrance to a garden, a courtyard, a service area, or a garage in comfort and with maximum safety. Moreover, thanks to the use of the remote control, it allows you to open or close without getting out of the car. The installation of an electric gate for driveway has different prices of the dimensions and characteristics of both the gate itself and the type of automation system desired.

On the market, it is possible to find openers for automatic gates at affordable prices and of various kinds. From the simplest, also available in assembly kits and easy to install, ideal for automating the opening of an existing gate, to the most sophisticated and technological versions. A typical example is automation systems for driveway gates connected to home automation or alarm and video surveillance systems.

Motorizing an existing gate and installing a new automatic gate are different operations, with different costs and different intervention methods. Concerning the installation of a new automatic gate, in addition to the cost of the automation system and the structure of the gate itself, it is also necessary to consider that relating to the installation of the structure, the assembly of the opener, and the final testing, which requires the presence of a qualified technician, an expert in the installation of automatic gates. Prices? It is always better to compare different offers and evaluate different quotes to get a clear idea.

For this reason, it is recommended to contact only professionals with proven reliability and in possession of the necessary certification, capable of identifying the best solution and guaranteeing the perfect operation of the gate. Please note that compliance with safety standards does not allow you to carry out the installation yourself.

The cost of an automatic gate varies from a few hundred dollars for the purchase of a complete motorization kit, up to two, to three thousand dollars and more for a custom-made wrought iron gate. To get a better idea of the prices of automatic driveway gates, read the table below.

The following table shows the indicative prices for installing an automatic gate

An automatic gate can have very different prices from one model to another related both to the material and dimensions of the gate itself and the type of motorization. It is important to contact only a competent and qualified electrician, able to carry out the gate inspection correctly.

(NOTE that the prices of automatic gates may vary due to the type of work to be carried out, the quality of its execution, and the region in which you are located).

Electric Driveway Gate Opener Cost by Brand

Based on my experience, the price of electric gate openers varies widely, from $250 to $3,500, depending on the brand. Several well-known companies produce top-quality electric gates and openers, and some also make garage door openers. These brands offer a range of models to suit different needs. Whether you have a small 5-foot fence gate or a larger bi-fold gate, you can find a suitable opening system from these manufacturers.

Labor Cost to Install Driveway Electric Gate

In my experience, installing an electric driveway gate costs between $450 and $1,200. Heavier gates, those with dual sections, or ones with extra features like sensors and cameras, take more time and cost more to install than smaller, simpler gates. Usually, it takes no more than a day to install an electric gate, and smaller ones can be done in just a few hours. The exact cost depends on the gate's size, material, and the type of automated system you choose.

In my work, I've seen that garage door companies, fence and gate specialists, electricians, and even handymen can install electric gates and openers. The labor cost ranges from $30 to $55 per hour, depending on who you hire and the complexity of the job. If you buy the gate system from a company, they might offer a discount on installation or other services. If you live far from the service provider, there might be extra travel charges, but this varies by provider.

The characteristics of a gate's motorization system

For an automatic gate, prices may vary according to the type of system and the presence of any accessory elements, however, the automatism for gates has very similar technical characteristics. The mechanism that determines the opening of a gate consists of some fixed elements:

• An external or underground electric motor.
• One arm for swing gates and one rail for sliding gates.
• A control unit.
• One or more photoelectric cells.
• Remote control and a key opening system.
• Other variable elements, such as sensors and light indicators.

The choice of a specific automation system for gates may depend on personal needs, for example, the connection to an alarm system or to a home automation system that allows the simultaneous movement of several openings.

In the event of a power failure, the gate automation system does not work, but there is no need to worry: you can still exit or enter without problems since any automatic gate is always equipped with an unlocking device that allows it to manually open.

If, on the other hand, you wish to have a certain autonomy even in the event of an electrical blackout, you can advise the technician to install an emergency system equipped with a battery, able to operate for a few hours even in the absence of mains power and still allow you to manage to open by remote control. The prices of automatic gates with backup systems are above average but offer reliable performance in any context.

Swing gate or sliding gate

Consider that, when you choose an automatic gate, the prices also differ with the model you prefer. The aesthetic standards of a structure that allows automation are essentially two: gates with one or two swing leaves and sliding gates.

Automatic gate with one or two swing leaves

A swing gate consists of one or two leaves that open by rotating on a pivot. Before installing an automation system for swing gates, it is necessary to take into account the space required for opening the leaves, in the same way as for an internal door.

This type of gate is available with single or double leaf and in both versions, it is very important for the technician to check the overall weight of the gate to proceed with the choice of the suitable motor. In fact, the mechanism is based on the presence of an articulated arm that opens the leaves: if the weight of the gate is excessive, it can cause the arm to block. Also in this case the presence of an expert technician is required, who knows how to choose the ideal motorization in relation to the length and weight of the door.

Currently, most of the motors for large-sized automatic swing gates are equipped with a hydraulic arm with a vacuum circuit, which guarantees silence, efficiency, and a very long life, even if it involves a higher cost. For smaller needs, you can still use the classic electromechanical pistons, which support doors weighing about 500 kg.

Automatic sliding gate

A sliding gate generally consists of a single leaf that moves along a track through an automation system. A sliding gate occupies a small space compared to a swing gate model and the track can be installed in such a way that the gate, once open, disappears behind a wall or a hedge, offering the possibility of fitting into contexts as well. architectural details.

Even a sliding gate requires a precise calculation to determine the choice of the most suitable motor, considering that the rather long versions can even reach 800-1000 kg in weight.

Automatic gate: are prices influenced by the aesthetic aspect?

Among the factors that affect the prices of automatic gates, we have not yet talked about the aesthetic one. Often, we focus too much on technical specifications such as dimensions, materials, and engine power ... But in reality, the gate is often the first element of our home that we see upon returning from work and represents a kind of "business card" to the outside throughout our house.

This is why the major manufacturers on the market have created various solutions to meet the needs of customers.

For those who want the best in terms of aesthetics, wrought iron gates, handcrafted and with personalized decorations, are probably the ideal solution. The prices of automatic gates of this type tend to be higher than the alternatives, but you can be sure that you have a one-of-a-kind gate.

The classic galvanized gates, on the other hand, are made up of doors with customized sizes but the same "patterns". This means that the distance between the steel rods will be the same, as will the type of tip at the top and the orthogonal crosspieces. An economical, reliable but not very personalized solution. If you are a person who pays attention to the point and does not want to waste time with these details, consult the prices of the standard galvanized automatic gates.

Security, maintenance, and tax deductions for automatic gates

Prices, models, types, dimensions ... When you decide to install an automatic gate, in the prices you must also take into account the maintenance that this type of device requires. The ideal solution is to ask the installer for advice, who usually also provides periodic maintenance service for motors for automatic gates.

The prices must also be evaluated remembering that periodic maintenance is very important since the structure of the gate and the motor are exposed to humidity, high temperatures, frost, and rain, and over time they could be damaged, causing not only discomfort but also dangers.

Furthermore, a moving gate could pose a potential risk to children and other people in the vicinity: to avoid the problem these structures must correspond to precise safety standards and have automatic locking systems, sensors, photoelectric cells, and other anti-crushing devices, to be tested periodically to verify their effectiveness.

Even if an automatic gate becomes blocked or stuck, or does not close due to misalignment, it is advisable to contact an expert technician. An interesting and advantageous tax deduction is provided for the installation of a new automatic gate, or for the addition of an automation system to an existing gate, on the occasion of a renovation project. Ask the installer for information, who will be able to show you how to access this incentive.

Additional considerations and costs

Permissions. In many states across the country, installing an electric gate may require a public works or gate permit. The type of permit required and the cost to the contractor varies greatly from state to state. Most contractors are willing to obtain permits for you, charging a small fee for this service. Be sure to ask about this before entering into a contract.

Do it yourself. It is not recommended to carry out such work with your own hands. If you have knowledge and experience with electrical systems, you can attempt the installation yourself. The gate itself and related parts can usually be purchased from the manufacturer or their nearest representative. It is important to pay attention to the correct measurements so that the gate installation is successful. In many cases, it is better to hire a subcontractor to install the electrical system rather than putting yourself or others at risk. Also, if you install the gate in violation of the manufacturer's instructions, you will lose the manufacturer's warranty.

House cost. Installing electric gates can be expensive, but it is an investment in your home and its value will automatically increase. When selling a home, this can play an important role in its appeal to a buyer.

Insurance. Often, the insurance company will take the presence of an electric gate into account when calculating the cost of insuring your home. Gates increase security and reduce the likelihood of theft, which has a positive effect on the amount of the insurance premium. It is worth checking whether your insurance covers electric gates. It may be important for the insurance company to have permits for their installation and an agreement from the contractor for their installation. Pay attention to this.

Electricity bill. Of course, the electricity bill will increase, but not significantly. On average, a gate motor only uses 100 watts per day when not in use. In many states, it's only a few cents a day. When using a gate, for each opening and closing the motor will consume an average of 700W for one minute.

Automation of underground electric gates. If you can afford to spend a little more money on beauty, you can install an underground drive. It can be either hydraulic or mechanical, which also affects the cost. But at the same time, your electric entrance gate will look elegant and not spoil the appearance.

Electric gate: prices, quality, and savings on LocalProBook

Do you want to increase the security level and value of your home with a high-quality electric gate?

Or maybe you intend to motorize your gate to create an automation system for all the openings in the house? Whatever your intention, we invite you to use the LocalProBook online form and contact the best technicians in your area, in possession of qualifications and certifications such as being able to install automatic gates (prices available in the table above) complete and with motorization systems for existing gates.

LocalProBook selects only artisans and technicians of proven reliability and reliability and allows you to receive a clear, detailed, and no-obligation quote from the professionals working in your city within a short time. You will thus be able to compare the different proposals and make arrangements directly with the technician who you think is suitable for your needs.