Automatic gates are an excellent investment for property owners looking to improve their homes’ appearance, appeal, value, and security. Due to their build and design, they are also easy to operate and convenient for all users.
Metro Gates Repair Dallas has repaired many automatic gates and understands those common gate problems may be due to mechanical wear and tear or the effect of outside elements. Irrespective of the problem, automatic gates should be maintained properly to keep them functional and prolong their lifespan.
Two important factors are essential when getting repairs for automatic gate problems: the automatic gate repair technician and the repair service. Hiring the right technician will improve the quality of the repair service you enjoy. Before contacting your repair technician, here are four pieces of information you should have in handy.
What The Problem Is
Your automatic gate repair technician will appreciate some background information on the problem before their arrival. This information prepares their mind for the task ahead and helps them plan accordingly.
You don’t have to worry about giving an accurate diagnosis of the problem, however, a layman’s explanation of the problem will do just fine. Your repair technician may also ask questions about the problem to help them narrow down the cause and how to fix it.
You may find yourself answering questions like, is the gate making noises or producing an odd smell during operation? Does the gate close all the way through or stop halfway? Is the remote working?
Your answers to these questions could help your gate repair technician narrow down the problem even before they physically arrive at your property.
Gate Type
There are different makes and models of automatic gates on the market. Each product often has shortcomings, and knowing the type of gate you have can help your technician understand the problem better.
Your gate repair contractor can also use this information to narrow down the parts necessary to replace damages to your gate. Be sure to confirm the make and model of your gate from the installation manual or other identification entities available. If unsure, you can offer to take a picture of the gate to send to your technician.
It is essential that you get the gate type correct, as this can affect how fast the problem is fixed. Supplying the wrong information to your gate repair technician may mean ordering the wrong parts, which can delay the repair process as they’ll need to re-order the right part. It may also cost you extra money and inconvenience.
As part of the identification information, describe the type of gate you have, whether it is a swing type, sliding type, bi-folding gate, or telescopic gate. Providing accurate information about your gate can help narrow down the problem and make troubleshooting faster.
Motor Type
Automatic gates rely on different types of motors to function effectively. Your gate repair technician may require this information to further troubleshoot issues and narrow down the problem with your automatic gate.
Knowing the motor type can help your gate repair technician determine whether they need to replace the motor or repair it. It can also inform additional preventative decisions like checking to ensure your gate isn’t prone to going off track or having its tracks clogged.
The motor type can also help to narrow the problem to common mechanical or electrical issues associated with the motor type.
Gate Location
You may not know this, but your gate’s location may predispose it to certain damages and problems. This quick information, irrespective of how irrelevant it may appear to you, can help to narrow the problem to specifics and hasten the repair or replacement process.
For example, an automatic gate located on a slope may have issues closing completely over time. Supplying this information to your technician can help them determine if you have the right motor type installed on it and whether the motor is under excessive strain acting against the gravitational pull.
Having the above information is essential to a fast and seamless gate repair service. However, the information isn’t as important as hiring the right contractor for the job. Here are some factors to watch out for when hiring a gate repair contractor.
- Referrals and recommendations
- Reviews and services offered
- Licensure and Insurance
- Experience and expertise
- Location and proximity
- Service costs and customer service
Looking for the above factors can help you eliminate the bad eggs and choose the right gate repair contractor for your needs.