Safety Features a Driveway Gate Should Have in The Woodlands, TX
A gate that isn't properly equipped with modern safety sensors can pose a risk to vehicles, pets, and most importantly, children. At Ark Fence Company, every gate installation we perform includes industry-standard safety mechanisms to ensure smooth and secure operation.
1. Photo-Eye Sensors (Non-Contact Sensors)
Similar to a garage door, photo-eyes send an invisible beam across the driveway. If the beam is broken by a car or a person while the gate is closing, the gate will immediately stop and reverse. This is a critical feature for homes with active children or pets.
2. In-Ground Induction Loops
For sliding or swinging gates, induction loops are buried under the driveway surface. These loops detect the metal mass of a vehicle. This prevents the gate from accidentally closing on a car that is idling in the path of the gate.
3. Pressure-Sensitive Safety Edges
A safety edge is a flexible strip installed on the leading edge of the gate. If the gate physically touches an object, the strip compresses and sends a signal to the motor to reverse immediately. This is the ultimate "fail-safe" for gate safety.
4. Emergency Fire Access (Siren Sensors)
In many gated communities in North Houston, local fire departments require a "siren-operated sensor" or a "Knox Box." This allows emergency responders to gain entry to your property without damaging the gate or needing a code during a crisis.