Even the best automatic Nashville gates have a limited lifespan. Being exposed to the elements for so long will eventually cause damage to parts of the gate like the motor, internal components, hinges, and other important parts needed for it to function.

While repairing these automatic gate issues is possible, sometimes a gate has simply faced too much wear and tear to make it worth repairing. Sometimes its often cheaper and easier to simply replace the gate. Knowing when its time to replace your Nashville automatic gate can be difficult, especially when driving past and not paying much attention.

Here are 5 ways to know when it’s time to replace your automatic gate:

Slow Operation
The last thing you ever want from an Nashville automatic gate is slow operation – it completely ruins the entire purpose of the gate! So, if you find that your Nashville automatic gate is always taking a long time to open and close, there is a very good chance the opener needs to be replaced. Gates should open and close in just a few seconds!

Sometimes the issue is fixable, especially if its down to obstruction on the track or minor problems with the motor, but if you don’t notice obvious causes for the reduced mobility then a replacement is probably the only option.

Gate Doesn’t Close or Open
Just like slow operation, you never want your Nashville automatic gate to be unable to open or close, otherwise there isn’t much use to it. Again, check for obstructions to see if this is the cause of the problem. If not then you probably need to replace the motor or the entire gate depending on the severity of the problem and the availability of replacement parts.

No Spare Parts Available
As previously mentioned, sometimes you can fix common Nashville automatic gate problems by replacing parts, but these aren’t always available. In fact, if you find it impossible to buy any sort of replacement part, such as a motor or minor components, then you probably want to replace it.

With a new gate you get the benefit of having easily replaceable parts should problems arise down the line, saving you a lot time and money over the long-term.

Damaged Motor
When an Nashville automatic gate motor is heavily damaged then its an obvious sign a replacement is needed. However, there is no guarantee that a new motor is suitable for your gate, so sometimes it’s easier to just replace the entire thing.

Look for signs of corrosion or rusting around the motor to see how damaged it is. Sometimes wear and tear causes the damage while its often caused by extreme weather or even pests, so take the time to inspect the gate motor to determine if your gate needs replaced.

Not Enough Safety Features
Sometimes a gate is still operating but should still get replaced, usually when there are obvious safety risks using the gate. This often happens with older Nashville gates installed when there was a lack of safety regulations in place.

For instance, collision and crushing are a massive safety risk that could be present in older gates, so check for any safety features – or a lack thereof – to see whether your gate should be replaced with a safer upgrade.

For top-notch automatic Nashville gates for your home or business, Paramount Gate Company is the trusted local choice.  To get ideas and to see some recent examples of our work, take a look at our gallery page. When you are looking for a new gate or any related equipment, we welcome you to either contact us through our website or call us at 615.840.5027 and one of our friendly representatives will be glad to answer any questions you have, or arrange a free consultation with no obligation.