A new gate is typically a one-time purchase, so prospective buyers won’t always know what they should look for in a gate contractor. Picking the wrong contractor can leave you with a gate that doesn’t work or have you fighting to get your deposit back.
However, once you find the right gate contractor, your new gate will provide security, transform the entrance to your home and add value to your property.
First, you have to find the professional gate contractor. A little education goes a long way, so here are 5 tips to find a gate contractor who will get your job done right.
Tip #1 – Take time to get the right gate contractor
There is an upper echelon of highly rated gate contractors who insist on delivering the best customer service possible. Seek out these local gate contractors, so you can receive the same impeccable treatment. You’ll have to do some homework, but we’re sure you’re up to the task. Here are a few things you should do:
Ask the Right Questions – Is the company insured? Do they have access to the necessary equipment? How long have they been in business? Do they work on residential and commercial properties? What’s the warranty on the parts and labour?
Check their Work – Go and check out some of the gates the company has installed. Ask for images if they don’t have any on their website.
Find Out What Services They Provide – Some contractors outsource parts of the project. You can save a lot of time and money when one company can perform the entire [driveway gate installation]. [links to Driveway Gate Installation page]
The best way to get the gate you want is to get a gate contractor who can plan, prepare, install electrical and gates, plus everything in between.
Tip #2 – Have an idea of what you want
Think about what you want. Take pictures of the gates you like. Talk to neighbours and look at images online. Take time to write down your wish list. Try to convey as much detail as possible to the contractor.
Ask for sample pictures from the contractor and provide as much clarity as you can. Not only will the gate contractor appreciate this, but it will also help them create a fair estimate you can compare to others.
Tip #3 – Get a full quote and know the details
When it comes to driveway and [security gates] [links to Security Gates page], quality materials are paramount. The best price isn’t always the best deal. Two gates can look identical but priced very differently because of materials.
A proper estimate is a detailed document presented to you after a one-on-one consultation, site visit and a conversation as to what type of gate, materials, and accessories work best to create your vision.
Here is a list of what you should expect from your contractor:
- Site Visit – The gate contractor should go to your property to measure and see what they need to do for the project.
- Material Samples – You should see samples of the materials they intend to use along with an explanation.
- Driveway Measurements – The gate contractor needs to gather information on the grades and slopes to ensure proper ground clearance.
- Required Information – Gate style, gate width and height, post recommendations, hinge types, and any required [gate automation] [links to Gate Automation page].
- Options – The contractor will provide information about cameras, intercoms and other options that affect the gate’s function.
- Installation Process – The contractor will write out the project’s installation process with materials, so you know what you’re getting.
- Provisions of a Scale CAD Drawing – The gate contractor should provide a scale CAD drawing of the gate style you choose.
- Confirmation of Products – What products will arrive on your property on the delivery and installation date?
The quote must be detailed enough that you can make an informed decision. While reviewing the quote, you can also follow our next tip for finding a specialist who can install your gate.
Tip #4 – Check References
Check references to ensure that the gate installation company you choose is ready to do the work right.
Ask to speak with past clients about their experience to ensure the company is a true gate installation expert. You can also request references that include physical addresses so you can see their work in person. Hearing from other clients and seeing the gate contractor’s work will help you gain confidence in the gate contractor or urge you to find someone else.
Tip #5 – Find Out About After-Sales Service
There’s nothing better than a satisfied customer who’s happy to show off their new gate, but it doesn’t end there. A good gate contractor will be there if there’s any problem with your new automatic gate.
You should learn what kind of after-sales service, like [gate repairs or maintenance] [links to Gate Repair & Maintenance page], you can expect from the gate contactor. How fast they can respond to a malfunctioning gate? What additional charges can you expect? You don’t want to get stuck behind electric gates for too long.
When you ask the right questions and do your research, you’ll feel confident to go ahead with the project.
You’ll get the gate that you want, and your neighbours will want to know about the gate contractor who built your well-constructed and beautiful gate.
We’re confident that we check all the boxes we talked about. Find out more about our end-to-end driveway gate installation service. We’ll show you what makes a great gate contractor. Give us a call at 604-812-2007 or complete our online form for a free quote.
