Gate Opener Capacities: Length Versus Weight
When looking for a gate opener system, one of several specifications you must consider is the maximum gate capacity the opener system can handle. While LiftMaster gate opener systems are made of extremely strong and durable materials, the overweight and too long of a gate may have a negative effect on the life of your gate opener. The maximum weight and length results from carefully calculated and tested limits.
Why do Gate Openers have Weight & Length Capacities?
The weight and length limits are directly related to the gate opener's power supply, motor strength, and materials. A gate operating with more power and a stronger motor can move a heavy gate more easily and reliably than a less powerful gate opener. While there are various options for gate openers, the stronger models are commonly rated for heavy commercial and industrial use, whereas the less powerful models are used in residential and light commercial applications.
Weight & length limits are indirectly related to each other, meaning the gate can handle a shorter, heavier gate, but it can also handle a longer, lighter gate. Generally speaking, you can mix and match weight and length within the specified range so long as you do not exceed the maximum rated weight or length.
How Do I Know How Much My Gate Weighs?
Obviously, weighing your gate is an unlikely option. You can always consult a professional to estimate the weight of your gate, or you can calculate it yourself. Ornamental steel gates weigh about 25 lbs. per linear foot. Ornamental aluminum gates weigh about 8.5 lbs. per linear foot. Simply multiply the length of your gate by its weight. A 15-foot steel gate weighs about 375 lbs. A 15-foot aluminum gate weighs about 125 lbs. Note: weight will vary by height and style. If you have a taller solid gate, it will weigh significantly more than 25 lbs. per linear foot.
The weight of a barrier arm for a barrier gate opener is easier to weigh and is often included with the purchase of the barrier gate opener system. So, you don't often have to worry about the weight and length of a barrier arm for your gate opener.
Gate Opener Capacities
Each gate opener offered at Simple Gate Opener includes a capacity chart depicting the maximum gate weight and length. Gate opener systems with broader ranges have suggested gate weight and length pairings. Let's look at an example.
The LiftMaster LA400 Single Arm Swing Gate Opener Package states that it is rated for gates up to 16 feet long and 850 pounds, meaning you could have a 16 ft gate but only about 550 lbs. or a gate that is 850 lbs. but only 10 ft long. While manufacturing wording can be confusing, these limits are not meant to be interpreted as pairs, as the weight of a 16-foot steel gate would not weigh 850 pounds anyway.
Below is an example of a chart you should see on a product page of the LiftMaster LA400 Single Arm Swing Gate Opener Package. This chart more clearly displays the specific opener's weight and length capacity recommendations.
When shopping, please read and view all information carefully. If you have questions, please reach out to our sales representatives. They are happy to help in any way they can.