How to Measure
How to measure an existing entrance for a pair of double gates
1. Manual Double Wooden Gates
When measuring the width of an entrance for a pair of manual wooden gates allow a minimum of 25mm (1″) to a maximum of 50mm (2″) each side to accommodate standard gate hooks, for example a 10ft (3050mm) pair of gates will require a minimum opening size of 10ft-2″ (3100mm). All our standard gates have a 15mm allowance for the gap between the two gates in the centre. The gates can be hung in any position within the of the piers.
2. Double Wooden Gates To Be Automated with Piston Style Automation.
When measuring the width of an entrance for a pair of gates to be automated by piston style automation the same instructions apply (as above) The only difference being that gates must be hung as close to the rear of the gate pier/post as is possible in order to achieve the correct operating geometry for the piston operators. These dimensions vary according to specific systems. 80mm from the rear face of the pier/post to the center of the gate hooks will accommodate most piston operators.
3. Wooden Gates To Be Automated with Underground Automation
When measuring the width of an entrance for a pair of gates to be automated with underground operators allow 65mm clearance each side to accomodate the gate hooks.
Gate hooks must be set in line with the centre of the underground motor drive, for example a 10ft (3050mm) pair of gates will require a minimum entrance opening of 10ft-5″ (3180mm). The gate hooks & motor pivot are usually situated in the centre of the piers/posts (when veiwed in plan) but they can be positioned forward of or behind centre if required.
4. Metal Gates To Be Automated
Metal entrance gates require an allowance of 50mm (2″) per side for underground or piston style automation. i.e a pair of 10 ft wide gates will require an entrance width of 10ft-4″ (3150mm).
If the gates are to be automated with piston style operators the gates should be hung toward the back of the piers/posts no more than 100mm (4″) from the back face of the piers/posts to the pivot centre of the gates.
Gates to be automated uesing underground operators are usualy situated in the centre of the piers/posts. but can be positioned toward the rear of the piers/posts if required.
How to measure an existing entrance (height)
When measuring an existing entrance to determine the height of the gates, it is important first to assess the levels.
If the distance between the piers or posts is level and there is no rise or fall across the entrance, or rise into the entrance, a standard clearance of 65mm under the gate will be adequate (65mm is the minimum gap required to accommodate underground automation).
Measure from the ground to the top of the post or the under side of the pier caps to determine the heights. Allow 25mm (1″) minimum clearance under the pier caps. For example a standard gate with a side hight of 5ft (1525mm) will require a pier/post height of 1615mm.(1525mm+65mm+25m).
If the entrance area between the posts/piers is not level, make your calculations on the shortest post/pier. (In general the shortest pier stands at the highest side of a slopping entrance) Measure from the ground to the top of the post or the under-side of the pier caps to determine the height of the gate. Allow 25mm (1″) minimum clearance under the pier caps & 65mm ground clearance as before.
In the event of a rising entrance, calculate any rise within the opening radius of the gate, and determine what clearance will be required to enable the gates to open freely.
Measure into the entrance from the point where the gate is to be hung to the top of the opening radius of the gate, mark this point and place a long spirit-level (or use a straight edge with standard spirit-level) and set level with packers at the point on the post/piers where the gate is to be hung.
Measure from the ground to the under-side of the spirit level (straight edge.) and add an additional 10mm to this dimension. For instance if the gap were 80mm. add 10mm then add the side hight of the proposed gate say 1525mm (5ft) plus 25mm clearance under the pier cap= total (80mm +10mm + 1525mm + 25mm)= 1640mm.
Use this information to check that a standard gate + the additional clearance will fit under your pier cap.
How to determined the width of an existing entrance
Measure the distance between the posts/piers at ground level and again at the top. In the event of the posts/piers being out of plum, the narrowest of the two dimensions should be used to determine the width of the entrance.
Planning a new entrance
When planning a new entrance layout the same principals can be applied.
Handed Goods
When ordering handed goods right or left hand will be determined from outside looking in.
Help
If you require any assistance with your calculations please e-mail, with a sketch and photograph of your site.
