Motor, Pedestrian and Security Gate Maintenance Guide

Regular gate maintenance is an important part of living in a security estate that keeps your motor, pedestrian and security gates opening and closing smoothly. It also helps you avoid costly repairs down the line. A few simple checks and a bit of lubricant go a long way toward keeping them in good working order, whether your development uses sliding or swing gates.

Depending on which development you live in, your motor gate will either be a sliding gate or a swing gate. Like every other fixture in your home, these gates need occasional maintenance to keep them working correctly.

Sliding Gate Maintenance

Sliding gates run along a fixed track at the bottom of the gate, using wheels that let the gate move horizontally along the fence line.

What You Will Need

• Multi-purpose lubricant (e.g. Q20 or Shield Tool-In-A-Can)
• Broom
• Cloth

Sliding Gate Maintenance Steps

1. Check the wheels and guide rollers for signs of wear and tear and replace them if necessary.
2. Check the track that the gate slides on for any visible damage.
3. Ensure the gate moves smoothly along the track.
4. Apply lubricant to tight spots on the gate wheels.
5. Apply lubricant to tight spots on the gate roller guides.
6. Ensure the end stops are sturdy and secure.
7. Regularly clear dirt, leaves and debris from the track using a broom.
8. Keep the area around the gate clear of plants and weeds, see our Vital Gardening and Landscaping Considerations guide for more on maintaining the rest of your outdoor space.

Swing Gate Maintenance

Swing gates operate on hinges that allow the gate to swing open and closed. These gates also have a drop rod that keeps both leaves secure when open or closed.

What You Will Need

• Multi-purpose lubricant (e.g. Q20 or Shield Tool-In-A-Can)

Swing Gate Maintenance Steps

1. Check the hinges for signs of wear and tear, and replace them if necessary.
2. Apply lubricant to tight spots on the gate hinges.

Pedestrian Gate Maintenance

Every house with a garage has a pedestrian gate connected to the boundary wall, giving access to the yard. This gate requires the same maintenance as the swing motor gates described above. Check the hinges regularly and keep them lubricated.

Security Gate Maintenance

The security gates at your home's front and/or back door (where applicable) need the same maintenance as swing gates: regular hinge checks and lubrication to keep them opening and closing easily.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I do gate maintenance? 

Check your motor, pedestrian and security gates every few months, and apply lubricant to hinges, wheels and roller guides as soon as you notice stiffness or resistance.

What is the best lubricant for gate maintenance? 

A multi-purpose lubricant such as Q20 or Shield Tool-In-A-Can works well on gate wheels, roller guides and hinges.

What is the difference between sliding gate motor maintenance and swing gate maintenance?

Sliding gate motor maintenance focuses on the track, wheels and roller guides, since the gate moves horizontally along the fence line. Swing gate maintenance focuses on the hinges and drop rod, since the gate swings open on a pivot.

Do pedestrian and security gates need the same care as motor gates? 

Yes. Pedestrian gates and security gates use the same hinge mechanism as swing gates, so they need the same regular hinge checks and lubrication.

What are signs my gate needs maintenance? 

Look out for stiff or noisy movement, visible wear on wheels or hinges, gates that do not close fully, or debris built up on the track.

Related maintenance: Keeping your home in good shape also means checking your gutters and downpipes regularly, especially ahead of the rainy season. 

DISCLAIMER: The recommendations herein are given in good faith and are meant to guide the user. The recommendations imply no guarantee since the conditions of use and method of application are beyond our control.