5 Tips to Hiring the Right Gate Contractor

If you want to be truly satisfied with your new gate installation, finding the right contractor will make a world of difference. A new gate will not only provide security, but it will transform the entrance to your home and add value to your property. A new gate is typically a one-time purchase so prospective buyers will have little knowledge as to what criteria they should be looking for in a contractor. Common mistakes can be easily made and a little education goes a long way.

To ensure that a contractor can sufficiently fulfill your requirements, we have provided you with 5 tips to make your decision much easier!

Tip #1 – Take time to get the right contractor

As with many industries, there is an upper echelon of highly regarded gate builders that insist on delivering the best customer service possible. Seek out the local gate builders that have earned this designation and you are much more likely to receive this same impeccable treatment. Do your homework to ensure the company you hire is completely qualified, insured and has the equipment needed to get the job done on time and on budget. Take the time to ask questions about the gate company you choose. How long have they been in business for? What is the owner / operators background? Ask for references and call them. Go and check out some of the gates the company has installed. With a few minutes of research you can confirm that you are choosing an upstanding company to install your custom gate and give you the desired results.

Find a contractor who can provide the entire package where no other outsourcing is required to complete the project This is a huge time and money saver when one company can do the entire job including planning, electrical, gate installation, intercoms and cameras, masonry pillars, fencing and posts, and trenching for electrical.

Tip #2 – Have an idea of what you want

Take some time to think about what you want. Take pictures of the gates you like. Take time to write down your wish list. You will need to convey as much detail as possible to the contractor. Do up your own drawing or print something you like off the Internet. Ask for sample pictures from the contractor and provide clarity so you will feel more confident in your decision. Not only will each contractor appreciate this, but they will also be able to create an estimate that can be fairly compared to others.

Tip #3 – Get a full written estimate and know the details

When it comes to gates, quality materials are paramount. The best price is most often not the best deal. Two gates can look identical but priced very differently because of materials used. A proper estimate is a detailed document that will be 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 items the contractor should discuss with you and include in the estimate

• They will visit the property to measure and see what is required
• The company will show samples of some materials, samples of pickets, channel material etc and explain what they are
• They will show you a photo album to show all the styles – as well as their own completed projects
• Will gather information and measure the driveway for grades and slopes to ensure proper ground clearance.
• All information will be collected including gate style, gate width and height, various post recommendations, types of hinges, type of automation if required depending on function
• Will talk about cameras, intercoms and other options that will effect the function of the gate 
• They will prepare and provide a 3 page quotation that describes in great detail exactly what the job entails
• The gate materials, automation, controls and installation details will be written out in separate paragraphs on the form detailing what you are getting
• You will get a scale CAD drawing of the gate style you choose
• You will get a very detailed free quotation
• You will know exactly what will arrive on your properly when it shows up
• You will get names and addresses of completed gates to go and look at

The quote must be detailed enough that you can make an informed decision. If you are ready to go ahead, the company will visit with you once again, measure driveway again, prepare order confirmation, and have you will sign off on the job and collect a deposit. Be sure to discuss the warranty as well and find out the manufacturers warranty on the gate, the warranty on automation and installation and workmanship. Get it in writing! Find a company that stands behind their work!

Tip #4 – Check References

Checking out references is a great way to ensure that the gate installation company you choose is ready to do the work right. In fact, try to request references that include physical addresses so you can actually see the work that’s been done, and talk to the home owner’s about their experience. Once you hear from the owner that the job was done properly you will know that you have found a good company.

Tip #5 – After Sales Service

There is nothing better than a job well done and a satisfied customer who is happy to show off his property and refer other customers. A good gate contractor will be there if there is any problem with your new automatic gate. Find out just what kind of after sales service you can expect from the company you choose, including how fast they can respond and whether there are additional charges. If you have done your work, you will have received testimonials from previous companies and know what to expect.

The company you hire should be proud of their work and after sales service. As a customer, you should be happy enough to put a sign on your lawn advertising the gate company. It will be a great feeling to have a quality gate installed that will add value, enhance your visitors arrival and provide protection for your family.

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