Where swing gates won't fit, a sliding gate usually will – short driveways, drives that rise behind the gate, and busy entrances where a swinging gate would be in the way.
We install new sliding gates, automate existing ones and repair sliding gate motors from all the major brands.
Call or WhatsApp Adrian on 07854 037752
How a sliding gate works
The gate travels sideways along the boundary, normally on wheels in a ground track, driven by a motor that engages a toothed rack along the gate. A cantilever gate has no track across the driveway at all – it's supported on rollers to one side.
What it does need is space: a clear run next to the opening roughly the length of the gate.
Automatic Sliding Gates for Short Driveways
Many Carlisle homes have drives where the car sits just a few metres from the road. Swing gates opening inwards would hit the car, and opening outwards over the pavement isn't allowed. An automatic sliding gate solves that by moving across the entrance instead of into it.
Sliding gates also suit drives that rise behind the gate, where swing gates would catch on the slope.
Sliding Gate Automation in Cumbria's Weather
A sliding gate is only as good as the track and base beneath it. We set the motor on a solid concrete plinth, lay the track level and make sure water drains away, so frost and heavy rain don't throw things out of line.
For entrances where a ground track would collect leaves, grit or snow, a cantilever sliding gate is often the better choice, as it keeps the driveway completely clear.
The automation I use
We fit CAME sliding gate motors, chosen to match the gate's weight and how often it's used. For very heavy or industrial gates we specify the kit to suit.
A complete sliding gate installation typically costs £4,000 – £10,000+, because of the extra track and groundwork. A motor for a sliding gate you already have is priced after a free site survey. More in sliding gate automation.
Is a sliding gate right for you?
A sliding gate is worth considering if:
- your driveway is short, or slopes up behind the gate
- there isn't room for swing gates to open inwards
- the entrance is wide or heavily used
- you want a secure entrance – sliding gates are very hard to force
It isn't suitable without a clear run beside the opening. See sliding vs swing electric gates.
Safety comes first
Sliding gates bring their own trapping points – at the closing post and where the gate passes the pillar. We fit photocells and safety edges where they're needed, guard those points and force test every gate to BS EN 12453. See sliding gate safety checks.
Sliding gate repairs
Gate juddering, stopping halfway or not moving? It's usually the track, wheels, rack or a safety device. We repair sliding gates of all makes – see common sliding gate problems or electric gate repairs.
Get a price
Send us a couple of photos showing the entrance and the space beside it, and we'll tell you whether a sliding gate will work. Call or WhatsApp Adrian on 07854 037752, or send us a message.
Questions people ask me
How much does a sliding electric gate cost?
A complete installation typically costs £4,000 – £10,000+, depending on the gate's size and weight and the groundwork.
How much space does a sliding gate need?
A clear run beside the opening about as long as the gate, plus a little extra.
Can my existing sliding gate be automated?
Usually, as long as it runs freely on a level track. We'll check the gate, wheels and track first.
Are sliding gates more secure than swing gates?
They're very difficult to force – the gearbox holds them shut and there are no hinges to attack. Both types can be made secure.