Opening Doors to Convenience: Automated Gate Installation Done Right
- Jake Bunston
- 2 days ago
- 9 min read
Why an Automated Gate is a Smart Upgrade for Your Melbourne Property

Automated gate installation in Melbourne has become increasingly popular among homeowners looking to improve security, convenience, and property value. Here's what you need to know:
Key Benefits:
Improved Security - Gates automatically close, preventing unauthorised access
Convenience - Remote control access eliminates getting out of your car
Property Value - Quality automated gates can increase your home's worth
Kerb Appeal - Modern gate systems create an impressive first impression
Popular Gate Types in Melbourne:
Sliding Gates - Ideal for sloped driveways and limited space (92% satisfaction rate)
Swing Gates - Perfect for wider entrances (90% satisfaction rate)
Bi-fold Gates - Space-saving solution for challenging installations
Installation Cost Guide: Automated gate systems typically range from $3,000 to $15,000+ depending on size, materials, and automation complexity. Always get a detailed quote for accurate pricing.
Melbourne's diverse property styles - from Victorian terraces in Camberwell to modern townhouses in Doncaster - each present unique opportunities for automated gate installation. Whether you're dealing with a sloped driveway, limited space, or specific council requirements, the right automated gate can transform both your property's security and street appeal.
I'm Jake Bunston from Make Fencing, and over the past decade, I've helped hundreds of Melbourne homeowners steer automated gate installation Melbourne projects from initial consultation through to ongoing maintenance. My hands-on experience means I understand the unique challenges Melbourne properties present and how to deliver solutions that work reliably for years.
Your Guide to Automated Gate Installation in Melbourne
When you're considering an automated gate installation Melbourne project, you're making a decision that goes beyond just adding a barrier to your property. You're investing in your family's security, your daily convenience, and your home's long-term value.
At Make Fencing, we've guided hundreds of Melbourne homeowners through this journey over the past decade, and we understand that every property tells its own story.
Whether you're living in a charming Victorian terrace in Malvern that needs a heritage-sensitive approach, or you've got a sleek modern home in Brighton where cutting-edge design is key, your automated gate needs to feel like it belongs. That's where our expertise really shines - we don't just install gates, we create solutions that work seamlessly with Melbourne's diverse architectural landscape.
Choosing the Right Automated Gate for Your Home
The foundation of any successful automated gate installation Melbourne project starts with choosing the right type of gate and materials for your specific situation. It's a bit like choosing the right car - you wouldn't pick a sports car if you need to haul furniture, and you wouldn't choose a utility vehicle if you're looking for style and efficiency.
Sliding gates have become incredibly popular among our clients, and for good reason. When space is tight or your driveway slopes upward, a sliding gate moves horizontally along your fence line rather than swinging into your property.
We've installed these beauties from Armadale to Templestowe, and our clients consistently give them a 92% satisfaction rate. The magic happens when you realise you don't need to worry about clearance space or getting caught in the rain while your gate slowly swings open.
For properties with challenging terrain, we can install cantilever sliding gates that don't require a ground track - perfect when you're dealing with uneven surfaces or areas where leaves and debris might cause problems. You can explore more about these space-saving solutions on our Sliding Gate page.
Swing gates bring that classic, welcoming feel that many Melbourne homeowners love. They operate just like a large door, pivoting open to welcome you home. These gates work beautifully when you have plenty of space for the gate's arc of movement and want to create a grand entrance.
We see them frequently in suburbs like Kew and Glen Waverley, where properties have wider driveways and homeowners appreciate that timeless elegance. Our clients rate swing gates with a 90% satisfaction rate, often mentioning how they love the substantial, secure feeling these gates provide.
Bi-fold gates are our problem-solvers. When we visit properties where traditional options just won't work - maybe you've got an extremely short driveway, overhead restrictions, or an awkward entrance angle - bi-fold gates fold in on themselves, using roughly half the space of a conventional swing gate. We've installed these ingenious solutions in some surprisingly tight spots from Caulfield North to Hawthorn East, proving that every property challenge has a solution.
The material you choose shapes both how your gate looks and how it performs over the years. Aluminium gates are lightweight champions that resist Melbourne's unpredictable weather beautifully. They're particularly brilliant for coastal properties in Brighton or along the Mornington Peninsula, where salt air can be tough on other materials. The powder-coating options are virtually endless, and they need minimal maintenance - just an occasional wash to keep them looking fresh.
Timber gates bring warmth and natural beauty that's hard to beat. They offer excellent privacy and can be crafted into virtually any design your heart desires. Whether you want solid panels for complete seclusion or decorative picket styles that let light filter through, timber adapts to your vision.
These gates complement both heritage homes and modern country-style residences perfectly. We use premium-grade timber and create Custom Wood Driveway Gates that become genuine focal points.
Steel gates are the strength and security champions. They can be fabricated into intricate wrought iron designs for classical elegance or clean, minimalist styles for contemporary homes.
After galvanising and powder-coating, they're incredibly durable and can handle whatever Melbourne's weather throws at them. Our comprehensive Gates and Metal Fabrication services ensure every steel gate is built to last generations.

Colorbond gates offer that clean, contemporary look that works brilliantly with modern Australian architecture. Made from pre-painted steel, they're virtually maintenance-free and come in colours that can match your existing fencing or home exterior perfectly. They provide excellent privacy and security while looking great from both sides of your fence.
Key Factors for Your Automated Gate Installation Melbourne Project
Choosing the right installer makes all the difference between a gate that serves you faithfully for decades and one that becomes a constant source of frustration. With over ten years of experience specifically in Melbourne, we've learned that local knowledge isn't just helpful - it's essential. We understand everything from the clay soil conditions in some eastern suburbs to the coastal considerations near Port Phillip Bay.
Our in-house fabrication approach means we control every aspect of your gate's creation. Rather than outsourcing components and hoping they fit together properly, we design, build, and install everything ourselves. This isn't just about quality control - though that's certainly important - it's about ensuring your gate is built specifically for your property's unique requirements.
The clear process we follow has been refined through hundreds of installations. From your first phone call to the moment we hand you your remote controls, you'll know exactly what's happening and when. We believe surprises should be limited to birthday parties, not gate installations.
Understanding the cost factors helps you make informed decisions about your investment. Automated gate installation Melbourne projects typically range from $3,000 to $15,000+, with several key elements influencing the final price.
Gate size affects both material costs and the power requirements for automation - a larger gate needs a more robust motor system. Material choice plays a significant role, with steel and custom timber work generally costing more than aluminium or Colorbond due to fabrication complexity.
Automation complexity can vary dramatically depending on whether you want basic remote control operation or smart home integration with all the bells and whistles. Site preparation requirements can also impact costs, particularly if we need to excavate for proper foundations or run electrical cables significant distances.
Modern automated gate technology has evolved far beyond simple remote control operation. Smart home integration allows you to control your gate through smartphone apps, monitor its status, and receive notifications when it's used.
Wireless keypads provide convenient access for family members, deliveries, or service providers without needing additional remote controls. Safety beams are non-negotiable in our installations—these photoelectric sensors prevent the gate from closing on vehicles, people, or pets, ensuring everyone's safety. This aligns with Australian safety guidelines for powered gates to help prevent injury.
For properties where running mains power is difficult or costly, solar power systems offer an environmentally friendly, cost-effective alternative. Panels charge backup batteries throughout the day, keeping your gate operating reliably, even during outages. Our Automated Gate Systems use proven components to deliver dependable, low-maintenance performance with solar or mains power.
Council requirements vary across Melbourne's diverse municipalities, though most residential gate installations don't require extensive permits. Our experience across different council areas helps us provide guidance on any specific requirements that might apply to your property, ensuring your installation meets all necessary standards.
The Process and Aftercare for Your Automated Gate Installation Melbourne
Our installation process has been refined through more than a decade of Melbourne projects, designed to be as smooth and stress-free as possible. It starts with a genuine consultation where we visit your property and discuss your needs, vision, and any unique challenges your site presents.
Whether you're in Williamstown dealing with coastal conditions, Bayswater managing a sloped driveway, or Ringwood working with limited space, we take time to understand your specific situation.
The quotation stage provides you with a detailed, obligation-free quote that clearly outlines the proposed gate type, materials, automation system, and any additional features. We believe in transparency, so you'll understand exactly what you're investing in and why.
During our thorough site assessment, we take precise measurements and note specific ground conditions, electrical requirements, and any other factors that might influence the installation. This is where engineering meets artistry - we translate your vision into a custom design that integrates seamlessly with your property's aesthetics and functionality.
Our fabrication process happens in our own facility, where skilled craftsmen build your gate using premium materials and techniques refined over years of experience. This control over fabrication ensures the highest quality and precision, building your gate to withstand Melbourne's variable weather conditions.
Professional installation involves our experienced and skilled team carefully installing your automated gate system. We handle everything from setting posts and installing the gate to integrating motors and control systems, ensuring all safety features, like safety beam,s are correctly calibrated. We take pride in our attention to detail and clean workmanship, leaving your property tidy and your new gate ready for reliable service.
The final testing and handover stage ensures everything operates flawlessly. We walk you through using your new automated gate, explaining remote controls, keypad functions, and any other access control features, making sure you're completely comfortable with your new system.
Gate maintenance ensures your investment continues performing optimally for years to come. We recommend annual servicing where our technicians inspect motors, sensors, hinges, tracks, and electrical connections. They'll lubricate moving parts, adjust settings, and identify any potential wear before it becomes a major problem. This proactive approach saves costly repairs and ensures reliable operation.
Common issues are usually simple to resolve. Power failures are handled by battery backup systems in all our installations, plus manual release mechanisms ensure you're never locked out. Sensor obstructions from dirt, leaves, or spider webs can usually be resolved with a simple wipe-down of the sensor lenses.
Remote control problems often just need fresh batteries, though our team can guide you through reprogramming if needed. Any unusual noises should be investigated promptly, as they often indicate a need for lubrication or adjustment that's best addressed before it leads to more significant issues.
For ongoing support with your gate's operation, our team is always ready to help. You can find additional information and support resources on our Gate Automation page.

Ready to Improve Your Property? Here's Your Next Step
When you invest in automated gate installation Melbourne, you're making a decision that transforms your property in meaningful ways. The improved security gives you genuine peace of mind, knowing your family and belongings are better protected.
The convenience of never having to get out of your car in the rain or rush of daily life is something our clients tell us they can't imagine living without. And let's not forget the boost to your property value and the impressive first impression your new automated gate creates for visitors and potential buyers alike.
At Make Fencing, we've spent over a decade perfecting our craft and understanding what Melbourne property owners truly need. We're not just about installing gates – we're about creating custom solutions that become an integral part of your daily life.
Every project starts with listening to your specific needs, whether that's accommodating a sloped driveway in Glen Waverley, working within the heritage constraints of a Malvern property, or designing something that complements your modern Doncaster home perfectly.
Professional installation isn't just about having the right tools and experience (though we certainly have both). It's about understanding the nuances of Melbourne's diverse architecture, soil conditions, and council requirements.
Our long-term reliability comes from using premium materials, precise engineering, and rigorous testing. When we hand over your keys and remote controls, we're confident your gate will serve you faithfully for years to come.
Whether you're considering an automated gate as part of a broader Residential Fencing Melbourne project or need a robust access solution for your Commercial Fencing Melbourne requirements, our team brings the same attention to detail and commitment to excellence.
The next step is simple: let's have a conversation about your vision. We'll visit your property, understand your specific needs and challenges, and provide you with a detailed, obligation-free quote. There's no pressure – just honest advice from people who genuinely care about delivering the right solution for your situation.
Ready to experience the convenience and security of an automated gate? Contact us for a free quote and let's discuss how we can improve your property with a custom gate solution that's perfectly custom to your needs.

