Stacker gates, also known as telescopic gates, offer a unique combination of functionality, space optimization, and enhanced security. Investing in a stacker gate for your commercial or residential property has many advantages over other standard gate types. Here’s what you need to know about stacker gates and their benefits.

What Are Stacker Gates?

Stacker gates are a type of gate system consisting of multiple overlapping gate panels that stack horizontally when opened, allowing for efficient use of space. They’re typically found in commercial, industrial, and high-security environments where maximizing entry space and maintaining stringent access control are crucial.

How Do Stacker Gates Work?

Stacker gates operate by a motorized mechanism. When activated, the gate panels slide horizontally and stack neatly alongside each other, creating a clear opening. The gate can slide on a rail or “float” with the help of a counterbalance. This telescopic design allows stacker gates to utilize a smaller footprint compared to traditional slide gates or swing gates.

Additionally, the gate panels are often equipped with interlocking features to ensure a secure and rigid barrier when closed, enhancing the overall security of the entrance.

The Advantages of Stacker Gates

Stacker gates have an unconventional design and are often overlooked as an effective solution for commercial and residential driveways. Here are some of the unique advantages of stacker gates:

• Space optimization. Stacker gates are ideal in space-constrained environments. Unlike slide gates that require a significant amount of lateral clearance or swing gates that need ample space to swing open, stacker gates make efficient use of available space by stacking the gate panels horizontally. This compact design is ideal for locations with limited clearance or narrow access points
  

• Speed and efficiency. Stacker gates offer faster opening and closing speeds compared to slide or swing gates. In fact, a stacker gate can open almost twice as fast as other gates. The telescopic stacking motion allows for quick access, minimizing waiting times and reducing congestion. This feature is helpful for locations with a high volume of pedestrian or vehicle traffic.

• Versatility. Stacker gates can accommodate various entrance widths due to their versatile modular design. You can adjust the number of gate panels to suit different entrance sizes and modify when your needs change.

• Enhanced security. The interlocking gate panels of stacker gates create a robust and impenetrable barrier when closed. This design feature provides enhanced security and prevents unauthorized access.
  

Disadvantages Of Stacker Gates

Although stacker gates have many benefits, they aren’t always the best choice for every property. Here are some of the drawbacks of stacker gates:

• Higher installation costs. Stacker gates require professional installation due to their complex motorized system and hardware. This can result in higher upfront costs compared to traditional slide or swing gates.

• Limited design options. Stacker gates may have fewer design variations available compared to other gate types. The focus is primarily on functionality and space optimization rather than aesthetics.

Ultimately, the suitability of stacker gates depends on your specific requirements and constraints. Consult a gate expert to explore the many gate options available to you.

Stacker Gate Maintenance

Like all types of gates, stacker gates require maintenance to ensure efficient performance, prevent breakdowns, and avoid costly repairs. Here are some simple maintenance tasks you can do yourself:

• Inspect your gate for any damage, including rusting parts and rotting wood. Get these parts replaced as soon as possible.

• Wash your gate. Keep things clean by removing leaves and debris from the gate, gate operator, and rails. Also, keep trees and hedges trimmed well away from the gate.

• Lubricate all the moving parts, including chains, pulleys, rollers, and hinges.

• Keep insects and rodents away from the gate operator by spraying an outdoor pesticide around the housing every few months.

Sign up for the commercial planned maintenance program with Creative Door Services™, and you won’t have to worry about keeping track of your gate maintenance. We’ll ensure your gate gets the attention and service it needs for safe and sound operation.

Gate Installation, Maintenance, And Repair Across Western Canada

Creative Door Services™ provides top-quality gate products from industry leaders to ensure you get a durable, reliable product for your home or business. Our safety-certified technicians can provide expert installation and repairs. We also have a massive parts inventory at our disposal.

Contact us today to talk to a gate installation expert. You can find us in Kelowna, British Columbia; Vancouver, British Columbia; Calgary, Alberta; Edmonton, Alberta; Fort McMurray, Alberta; Regina, Saskatchewan; Saskatoon, Saskatchewan; and Winnipeg, Manitoba.