First Facts: What is a Cantilever Sliding Gate?
At a glance
Cantilever? A sliding gate without a ground track or wheels uses offset carriages and a track fixed to its base, creating a 'floating' appearance.
Can it be automated? Cantilever gates can be manual or automated. For automation, add a gear rack to connect the motor pinion to the gate, and include necessary safety features.
How does it work? The gate requires a tail section for counterbalance, with its weight supported by ground-fixed carriages and a top roller system.
What First Fence Offers- We can supply a fully built cantilever gate, ready for installation, or provide the components to build your own.
Our Top Tips:
Ensure you have enough run back space for the gate to fully open, including the extended overhang for the counterbalance.
A solid concrete pad must be installed at least a week before fixing the cantilever carriages. The larger and heavier the gate, the larger the pad needed.
Key Components
A closer look at what goes into a cantilever gate system
An analysis of what makes up a cantilever gate system
Standard Components include:
- 2 x cantilever carriages Cantilever track - enough to run the entire length of the gate
- 2 x meeting points for the gate to run into when opening and closing
- 2 x support wheels - these help prevent the gate overrunning the track
- Top support system - guide rollers and a guide channel or a ready made guide plate with rollers built in
Additional components if automating the gate:
- Toothed gear rack
- Sliding gate motor
- Photocells - all our automated cantilever gates come with 2 pairs
- Safety Edges - we supply our gates with 6 as standard
- Access control for getting in and out
- Please Note, when automating a gate, a full risk assessment and force testing mus be carried out. Safety is key.
Why choose a Cantilever Gate?
- Uneven Ground?- If you have uneven ground, a tracked gate simply won’t work. Cantilever gates handle uneven ground better than tracked gates, as their track is supported by fixed carriages.
- Faster Installation Time -Once the concrete pads have been dug out and have cured, bolt the cantilever carriages and support posts to the concrete pads, reducing site work.
- Less Maintenance- Cantilever systems avoid dirt and debris issues and reduce wear and tear due to fewer moving parts and components being off the ground.
- Better Security- Cantilever gates are more resistant to force and break-ins than swing or tracked sliding gates, due to their sturdier components.
How can First Fence help?
First Fence offers a range of services to suit your requirements including:
Supply only Fully Built Gate- If you have installation covered, contact our team to get a fully built system.
Supply and Install Fully Built Gate - Know what you want but need installation? We can handle that too.
Supply Components to Build Your Own Gate- Building the gate yourself? We can supply the cantilever system, automation, safety, and more.
GateDraft Pro- Unsure of sizes and design? Share your space details, and we’ll design to your specifications.
Commonly asked Questions about Cantilever Gates…
How much run-back space is required?
Typically, you need about 130%-140% of the opening size, depending on the gate's weight and opening size.
What gate infill options are there?
First Fence standard options are mesh, vertical bar, and palisade. For other requirements, contact our team—we're here to help.
How do I know what cantilever kit to buy?
For cantilever gates, knowing the gate's weight is crucial. Use a kit suited to the weight, and choose a higher-spec kit if unsure.
What if someone drives into my gate?
Our cantilever gates use high-grade steel, making them likely repairable on site if damaged.
What colours are available?
Our gates are galvanised to ISO 1461 but can also be powder-coated in various RAL colours.
How long will my gate last?
Gate lifespan depends on usage; frequent operation wears out components like bearings. Regular maintenance can significantly extend the gate's life.
More Information
Download the pdf guide of First Facts: What is a Cantilever Sliding Gate?
For more information, please contact our sales team on 01283 512111 or email sales@firstfence.co.uk
