4 Reasons to Choose an Above-Ground Gate Opener

Automatic gates provide exceptional convenience, so they are something to which many homeowners are attracted. Of course, there are several choices you'll need to make before landing on the best automatic gate to meet your needs, and one of the most important decisions is whether to go for an above-ground opening system or an underground opening system.

The difference is easy enough to grasp – it simply comes down to where the main operating parts are located. However, there's a big difference between these two options, and most homeowners will find that above-ground gate openers make more sense.

Here are just four reasons why.

1. Lower Cost

Automatic fence gates often represent reasonably large investments, so it makes sense to keep costs under control where you can. Going for an above-ground opening system is a great way to do just that. Since no extensive excavations are required in order to fit these systems, you'll save both time and money on labour. Additionally, the opening system itself tends to cost less when you go for an above-ground rather than an underground option.

2. Ease of Maintenance

One of the main problems with underground opening systems is that they are naturally much harder to access and inspect than above-ground systems. This can become problematic whenever routine maintenance needs to be carried out, and things will be even trickier if parts need to be fixed or replaced. Since an above-ground opener is much simpler to access, maintenance can be carried out more easily. Additionally, you'll be able to spot any potential issues sooner since the system is far less obscured.

3. No Flooding Risks

By their very nature, underground opening systems have the potential to fill with water. Drainage systems can be provided, and it won't usually do the motor harm to operate underwater for a little while, but it's never ideal for them to be submerged. With an above-ground opener, this isn't something you'll need to worry about. This should prove an especially attractive benefit if you live in a part of the country that frequently experiences heavy or prolonged rainfall.

4. No Terrain Requirements

Finally, it's worth keeping in mind that many properties simply won't be ideal for underground systems. They don't work well at the bottom of slopes due to drainage issues, and you may find it isn't even possible to dig down deep enough to accommodate them. In contrast, above-ground openers will work around any type of terrain that can already accommodate an automatic gate.

If you need more info about automatic gates, reach out to a supplier near you.