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Gate Installation Cost Calculator
Automated entry gates require coordinated investment in the gate material, operator (motor), intercom or access control, and underground power and control trenching. UL 325 safety compliance adds sensors and photo eyes. This calculator builds the full installed cost so HOAs, gated communities, and commercial sites can budget for new installation or replacement.
Total gate installation cost
$14,465
Gate material
$5,000
Operator (motor)
$3,500
Intercom / access control
$1,800
Trenching / cabling
$2,200
Contingency 10%
$1,315
How the math works
Gate types: swing ($200-300/LF, smaller motor); slide ($300-400/LF, heavier-duty motor); vertical lift / barrier arm ($150-300/LF for arm, more for full vertical lift). Operator $2-7K depending on duty class. Trenching for power/control runs typically $20-40/LF.
UL 325 safety compliance (sensors, photo eyes, secondary entrapment protection) is mandatory and adds $500-1,500. Skipping this creates liability and code violations.
How to Use
- Choose gate type (swing / slide / vertical-lift).
- Enter opening width.
- Enter operator, intercom, trenching, and permit costs.
- Read total cost including 10% contingency.
Frequently Asked Questions
Swing vs slide?
Swing is cheaper but needs space behind for arc. Slide handles wider openings and tight setbacks but requires heavier-duty operator and rail/track. Cantilever slides eliminate the rail.
Solar power option?
Solar gate operators ($800-2,500 add) make sense for sites without power within 200 ft. Combined with battery backup, they handle 5-50 cycles/day in most climates.
Maintenance reserve?
Operator $300-1,500 every 5-7 years; full gate refresh 15-20 years. Reserve $500-1,500/yr per gate for replacement schedule.
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