BUYING GUIDE
Automated Gates
This guide offers a clear overview of high-security gate solutions for protecting critical infrastructure, government facilities, and commercial properties.
Automated Gates
Different types and use cases
Slide Gate
Slide gates are a versatile solution commonly used in both residential and commercial settings. Ideal for areas with limited space, they operate by sliding open rather than swinging out, minimizing the required footprint. In industrial environments, slide gates play a vital role in security and access control—particularly at loading docks and critical infrastructure sites.
*V-track gates are best suited for warmer climates and flat urban areas, where debris is less likely to obstruct the track.
Common use cases:
Bi-Folding Gate
Best used in spaces with limited room, where traditional swing or sliding gates are impractical and don’t require tracks to follow. They are ideal for areas where a gate needs to open quickly without encroaching on the surrounding space. They offer a space-saving design, faster opening times, and can be customized to fit various architectural styles.
Common use cases:
• Narrow entrances
• Parking facilities
• Industrial parks
Swing Gate
Swing gates are versatile and used in various settings due to their ease of installation and relatively lower cost compared to other gate types. While they require more space for operation, they offer a traditional and clean look. Available in various designs and safety situations. Can be made to be crash rated.
Common use cases:
Cantilever Gate
Cantilever slide gates are ideal for locations that demand reliable, high-security access with minimal maintenance. Unlike V-track gates, they do not require ground-level tracks, making them perfect for uneven terrain or areas prone to debris. These gates are especially well-suited for wide openings, high-traffic environments, and applications where security is critical—such as industrial facilities, commercial properties, and secured installations.
Common use cases:
• Industrial facilities
• Military bases
• Airports
• Nuclear plants
• Commercial properties
Pivot Gate
A vertical pivot gate swings upward on a vertical axis, rather than sliding or swinging horizontally like traditional gates. This design is ideal for locations with limited horizontal space or uneven terrain, where conventional gate systems may be impractical. Vertical pivot gates also open and close more quickly than traditional swing or slide gates, allowing for faster vehicle processing and improved traffic flow. They provide efficient and reliable access control, making them a smart solution for secure sites with space constraints or challenging ground conditions.
Common use cases:
• Luxury estates
• Industrial applications
Vertical Lift Gate
A vertical lift gate is a type of gate that opens by rising vertically, rather than pivoting, sliding, or swinging. This design is ideal for locations where horizontal space is limited or where wide, unobstructed openings are required. Vertical lift gates are commonly used in loading docks, parking garages, and industrial facilities, offering a space-efficient solution that ensures smooth, reliable access in demanding environments.em
Common use cases:
KEY CONSIDERATIONS
What to know before choosing
How quickly do you need your gate to open and close?
A gate that doesn’t operate fast enough can encourage “tailgating” and other security violations. Cantilever gates, bi-fold gates, vertical lift gates, vertical pivot gates, and slide gates offer faster operation and operate efficiently in high cycle count scenarios with industrial-grade operators.
How large is the opening where the gate is being installed?
The overall size of the opening where the gate will be installed is one of the most important factors when choosing a gate. For larger openings, cantilever gates, bi-fold gates, vertical lift gates, and vertical pivot gates are designed to operate efficiently with a long lifecycle if properly maintained.
Are there access control systems you need to integrate?
Automated gates can be integrated with a variety of other security solutions, such as security barriers, access control systems, and intrusion detection, to maximize protection and streamline operations.
Do you have harsh weather or extreme conditions?
If you’re in an area with extreme heat or freezing temperatures, high winds, or heavy snow, that can quickly degrade certain types of automated gates. For harsher conditions, your best options are cantilever gates, bi-fold gates, vertical lift gates, or vertical pivot gates.
Do you have excavation limitations?
The surrounding space around a gate and/or excavation limitations can play a major role in the automated gates available. If you’re tight on space or require minimal excavation, slide gates, bi-fold gates, vertical lift gates, or vertical pivot gates are the most ideal.
Is your gate being installed on an uneven surface?
Most gate operators are designed to open and close gates on flat and level grades. However, if you’re installing on uneven or less-than-ideal surfaces, Cantilever gates, Bi-fold gates, and Vertical Pivot gates are great options.
What level of protection are you looking for?
Our automated gates offer a reliable and efficient solution for effective vehicle and pedestrian access. If you’re looking for high security options with crash-rated protection, all our automated gates offer some type of crash-rated or crash-tested design.
Automated Gates
How do different types compare?
AESTHETICS | OPERATION | SECURITY LEVEL | COST | |
Slide Gate | Minimalist to traditional designs with clean lines, quality materials. | Moves horizontally on track via motorized or manual operation. | ★ ★ ☆ ☆ ☆ | 💲💲 |
Bi-Folding Gate | Modern metal, warm wood, or ornate traditional iron designs. | Two leaves fold together to open, reverse to close. | ★ ★ ☆ ☆ ☆ | 💲💲 |
Swing Gate | Classic, elegant design with ornate details and decorative patterns. | Hinged door swings inward, requiring clear space for panels. | ★ ★ ☆ ☆ ☆ | 💲 |
Cantilever Gate | Sleek, minimalist design with clean lines and smooth operation. | Rollers behind fencing keeps gate suspended while operating. | ★ ★ ★ ★ ☆ | 💲💲💲 |
Pivot Gate | Bold, frameless design creating a grand entrance. | Lifts upward on base pivot to reach full vertical position. | ★ ★ ★ ★ ☆ | 💲💲💲 |
Vertical Lift Gate | Elegant wrought iron, sleek modern lines, or functional wood gates. | Lifts vertically with a counterbalanced or hydraulic system. | ★ ★ ★ ★ ☆ | 💲💲💲💲 |
Automated Gates
What are the real costs?
What payment or financing options are available?
Many integrators offer phased payment schedules, financing plans, or bundle equipment with larger security projects.
Do automated gates increase property value or reduce insurance costs?
Often yes, automated gates improve safety, reduce liability, and in high-risk industries can lower insurance premiums.
How long does installation take?
Standard installs are anywhere from 3-5 days, while more complex or crash-rated gates can take up to a couple of weeks or more.
Can I expect any hidden costs?
A reputable integrator should provide transparent pricing with no surprises. While unforeseen conditions (like underground utilities) can add costs, you should know about them upfront.
How do lifetime costs compare to initial costs?
Initial costs include any security assessments, design assistance, installation, and training –– generally a one-time cost. Lifetime costs include maintenance, repairs, and operations ––ongoing costs but smaller per occurrence. Preventative maintenance reduces long-term expenses and downtime.
What are industry variations that might affect price?
Different manufacturers and equipment lines create wide price ranges. Project timelines, anticipated challenges, and even tariffs on imported equipment can add costs. Integrators with broader manufacturer access may offer more pricing flexibility.
Where can I expect in terms of a price range for automated gate installation?
Depending on the type of gate being installed, and the level of crash protection needed, businesses can expect to pay anywhere from $1,500 to $3,000 per linear foot. Other factors like the gate operator, integrated safety features, and any signage on the gate affect the price as well.
What makes physical security integrators more or less affordable?
Scope of services: specialized knowledge in high-security installs cost more than basic providers. In addition, threat level also affects price: high-security, crash-rated solutions are more expensive than light-duty options.
Automated Gates
How do the costs compare?
PRICE RANGE | INSTALL TIME | SPACE NEEDED | |
Vertical Pivot Gate | $3,000 - $5,000 | 3-4 days | The wide of the gate and enough vertical clearance to raise the gate to the necessary height. |
Cantilever Gate | $1,500 - $3,000 | 3-4 days | 1.5 times the width of the opening being covered. |
Swing Gate | $1,500 - $2,500 | 1-3 days | Swing arc equal to the total width of the gate, plus extra room fro posts. |
Bi-folding Gate | $8,000 - $10,000 | 3-4 days | At least the width of the gate for the panels to stack, plus extra room from hinges and latches. |
Slide Gate | $1,500 - $2,500 | 3-4 days | Two times the length of the opening being covered. |
*While IronSite strives for accuracy, the above-listed price ranges are general approximations for informational purposes only and might not reflect actual costs. Prices and availability are subject to change without notice. Most recently updated November 2025.