How to Make a Gate Opener?
A gate opener is a device that can open gate doors for you when you are outside your home, without the inconvenience of you physically opening the doors. There are many gate openers in the market today, and these gate openers come in various shapes and sizes. Gate openers are not only functional; they also have aesthetic value. So, suppose you want to personalize your gate with something that looks trendy yet practical, you may want to look into getting customized gate openers.
You may not always be able to purchase a gate opener; you can always make your own. With the tips outlined below, you will be able to make your own gate opener.
What Kind of Gate Opener Will You Be Making?
There are three gate opener types that you can follow to make your gate opener. These gate opener types include a gate opener with a built-in remote control unit, one with an internal gate controller, and lastly, one with external gate controllers. Other types include top swing, bottom swing, underground and linear.
The Gate Size
In choosing which gate opener to make, you need to consider what kind of gate you have. If your gate is narrow or large enough to drive a car through, you will need gate openers with external gate controllers.
By making gate openers of these types, you can make sure that the gate opens smoothly for manual and automatic gate openers. Also, the size of the gate determines the amount of power your opener will need to open the gate.
Steps on How to Make a Gate Opener
- Make a plan. Here, you want to identify the gate control system you already have and what changes you will need to make to it for your new gate opener to work.
- Purchase and test the motor. You want to ensure that the motor you install on your gate actually works. Ideally, you should do this before you make your purchase from the hardware store.
- Make the motor mount. You can mount your gate opener to the gate using lag bolts, but you will need a specialized gate motor mount. Lag bolts work well for gates with relatively thin side rails. If your gate has thick vertical and horizontal elements, then consider using U-bolts or J-bolts.
- Install the gate opener. Make sure to use high-quality materials each time. If you do not, you risk having your gate suddenly collapse. Get a friend or handyman to help you with the installation, as it will be easier and safer to have someone else present.
- Once the gate is installed, ensure that the gate opener is working correctly before you sign off on the installation. Make sure that your gate opens all the way up and down completely. Test it several times before you’re confident that it is installed and works properly.
With suitable materials, tools, and a handy partner, you can make your own gate opener and install it yourself.
