Security gates keep homes and businesses secure, but routine maintenance is important to ensure proper, long-lasting function. After a long winter, especially a cold one, the components of your gate are going to need some attention to operate smoothly moving into spring and summer. In addition to making sure that your gate is in working order, maintenance also improves the appearance of your home or business. A gate that is rusty or in need of repair detracts from the "curb appeal" offered by having a gate in the first place. The following tips will help you keep your gate in top condition this summer season.
1. Clean It Up
Annual washing and waxing of your gate help maintain its appearance and cut down on costly repairs. Winter can lead to a buildup of dirt and other debris that stick in the hinges or sliding mechanisms of the gate. It's important to clear these out before they cause damage. You should also make sure the area around your gate is clean. If overgrown tree branches or bushes threaten to block any sensors or solar panels, trim and clean them up as well.
2. Be Squeak-Free
Heavy-duty security gates have strong hinges that will likely need greasing after weathering the winter. To prepare your gate for summer operation, use a grease gun and some white lithium or marine-grade grease to lubricate the bearings. Stay away from grease that's too heavy and don't use WD-40; both of these can do more harm than good.
3. Check the Connections & Power Sources
Openers, receivers and other electric gate parts should be inspected to ensure that all connections are secure. Look at wires and circuit boards to make sure that there are no "loose ends." Test all the equipment for glitches, including remote controls. If you're not familiar with electrical components, ask a knowledgeable professional for help so that you don't miss anything important. This is also a good time to double check batteries in remote controls and back up batteries. With spring and summer storms potentially knocking out power, it’s a good idea to make sure your back up power source is ready to go when needed.
4. Banish Pests
Bugs will hide out in any sheltered area to protect themselves from harsh weather conditions. Check all parts of your fence, especially the electrical ones, for insects, snails, slugs and other pests. Any of these can leave behind a trail of destructive damage, leading to costly repairs. Spider webs are a concern as well since they can actually interfere with the operation of a gate's electrical units. Any sign of infestation may warrant a call to your local pest control company.
5. Go by the Book
Whether you have a swing gate or a slide gate, your perimeter security should have come with a detailed manufacturer's manual. Refer to this as you perform routine maintenance to ensure that you're not missing any steps recommended by the company. It can also direct you to contact information should you need to get in touch with someone about repairs or replacement parts.
Routine maintenance of your security gate, whether it's outside your home or protecting your business, is essential to ensuring that it continues to work the way it should. Gates are meant to keep intruders and unwanted visitors out, thereby adding an important sense of security to a property. With the right upkeep, your gate will continue to do its job and help you to feel safe and protected for many years. Do you have a spring maintenance tip that we missed? Comment and share it below.
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