Cantilever gates
What is a cantilever gate?
A cantilever gate is a type of sliding gate that is supported by a horizontal beam or beams, called a "cantilever," that extends from the gate opening to a support post or posts located beside or behind the opening. Unlike traditional sliding gates that run on a track or rail along the ground, cantilever gates are suspended in the air and slide back and forth without any contact with the ground, which can be advantageous in certain situations where the gate needs to be easily movable or where there is uneven ground or obstacles that could impede the movement of a traditional sliding gate. Cantilever gates are often used in commercial, industrial, or high-security applications, but can also be used in residential settings.
What is the benefit of a cantilever gate?
There are several benefits of a cantilever gate over a swing gate:
Space-saving design: Cantilever gates do not require a large swing radius like swing gates do, which means they can be installed in areas with limited space, such as locations where there is not enough room for a swing gate to fully open or where there are obstacles nearby.
Easy to operate: Cantilever gates are generally easier to operate than swing gates because they slide smoothly along the cantilever beams, with no need for a complicated mechanism to open and close them.
Low maintenance: Cantilever gates have fewer moving parts compared to swing gates, which makes them less prone to wear and tear and less likely to need repairs or maintenance.
High security: Cantilever gates can be designed to provide high levels of security, as they are usually constructed with heavy-duty materials and can be equipped with features such as anti-climb barriers or security cameras.
Durability: Cantilever gates are designed to withstand harsh weather conditions and heavy use, which makes them a good choice for commercial and industrial settings where gates are frequently used.
Overall, cantilever gates are a good choice when space is limited or when a high level of security is required, while swing gates are a good choice when aesthetics are a primary concern or when there is ample space for a gate to swing open and closed.
What are the drawbacks of a cantilever gate?
While cantilever gates offer many benefits, they also have some potential drawbacks, including:
Cost: Cantilever gates can be more expensive than swing gates due to the additional materials and engineering required for the cantilever beam and support structure.
Installation complexity: Installing a cantilever gate requires careful planning and expertise to ensure that the beam is level and properly aligned with the support structure. This can add to the installation time and cost.
Need for adequate space: While cantilever gates require less swing radius than swing gates, they still require adequate space for the cantilever beam and support structure. If there is not enough space available, a cantilever gate may not be a feasible option.
Maintenance: While cantilever gates require less maintenance than swing gates, they still require periodic maintenance to ensure that the beam and support structure are in good condition and operating smoothly. Over time, debris and dirt can accumulate on the track, causing the gate to become difficult to move.
Noise: Cantilever gates can be noisier than swing gates, as the gate may make a scraping or rattling sound as it moves along the beam. This can be a concern in residential areas where noise levels need to be kept low.
Overall, it's important to carefully consider these factors when choosing the best gate for your specific needs.