Can I Automate My Existing Gate?
If you’ve already got a manual gate installed, you might be wondering if it can be upgraded with automation rather than replaced entirely. The good news is — in most cases, yes, we can automate your existing gate.
Can I Automate My Existing Gate? Here’s What You Need to Know
Whether you’ve got timber, steel, or composite gates, there’s a good chance they can be retrofitted with automation. At Perimeter Fencing and Gates, we install systems that work with both swinging and sliding gates using high-quality motors from Roger Technology.
As long as your gate is in solid structural condition and the posts are secure, we can usually automate it without the need for a full replacement. If you’re asking “can I automate my existing gate,” the answer is almost always yes — and we’ll make it simple.
What We Look for When Assessing Your Gate
Before we install any automation system, we carry out a free on-site survey. Here’s what we check:
- Is the gate frame solid and free from damage or warping?
- Are the posts strong enough to support a motor?
- Does the gate swing or slide freely without friction?
- Is there access to a nearby power supply, or will new cabling be required?
What Automation Options Are Available?
We offer several automation options depending on your gate type, driveway layout, and budget:
- Underground motors – Clean look, highly secure
- Arm-style motors – Ideal for retrofitting existing swing gates
- Sliding gate automation – Perfect for tight spaces or sloped driveways
All systems can be paired with safety edges, keypads, intercoms, and smartphone control. We’ll walk you through the right setup for your property and show you exactly how everything works once it’s installed.
When Is It Better to Replace the Gate?
Sometimes, automating an existing gate isn’t the best option. If your gate is badly damaged, misaligned, or not structurally suitable for motor installation, we’ll always be honest with you. Signs you may need a new gate include:
- Timber gates that are rotten or cracked
- Posts that are loose or leaning
- Uneven swing or grinding against the ground
- Gates that are too heavy or the wrong shape for automation arms
In those cases, we can design and build a made-to-measure replacement that’s ideal for automation and built to last. Everything is fabricated and installed by our in-house team — no outsourcing, no delays.
Is It Worth Automating an Existing Gate?
For many homeowners across Hampshire, the answer is yes. If your gate is in good shape, automation can save you time, improve security, and add value to your property — without the cost of a full replacement. We’re often asked “can I automate my existing gate,” and the answer is usually a confident yes.
Whether you’re tired of getting out in the rain to open your gates or want better control with remote access, automation is a smart upgrade. Our team handles everything in-house — from the first site visit to final testing — so you’re never passed from one contractor to another. We make the process simple, cost-effective, and completely custom to your property.
Get a Free Site Visit & Quote
If you’re thinking about automating your gate, we’ll come out, inspect your current setup, and give you a clear, no-obligation quote. All fabrication, welding, and automation is handled in-house by our own team — no subcontractors involved.
We install gate automation systems across Hampshire and the surrounding areas, with expert advice and top-level safety compliance.
Ready to automate your gate or get honest advice? Book your free site visit now — we’ll assess your gate, explain your options, and give you a clear quote.
Or call 07715 944203 now for fast advice from our in-house team. No call centres. No pressure.
We follow HSE electric gate safety guidelines to ensure full compliance with UK regulations.

If you’re still wondering, “can I automate my existing gate,” the best way to know for sure is to let us take a look. We’ll give you honest advice, whether it’s a straight upgrade or if a new gate would work better long-term. Either way, we’ll handle it from start to finish — no outsourcing, no delays.