Retrofitting automation to existing manual driveway gates is one of the most popular gate upgrade projects in London. It avoids the cost and disruption of replacing structurally sound gates entirely, and modern motors can be fitted to almost any gate type — timber, steel, or wrought iron — provided the gate and its hanging hardware meet the minimum structural requirements.
Can Your Existing Gates Be Automated?
Before any motor is specified, a site survey must establish whether your existing gates are suitable for automation. This is not a formality — it directly determines whether a retrofit is viable, and if so, which motor system is appropriate.
The critical factors are gate weight, hinge condition, and structural integrity. A pair of timber swing gates for a standard 3.5-metre opening typically weighs 80 to 150 kg total. Most modern residential swing gate motors can handle up to 300 kg per leaf, so weight is rarely the limiting factor for standard residential timber gates. Heavy bespoke wrought iron or steel gates are a different matter — very heavy designs may require commercial-grade motors or structural reinforcement of the posts.
Hinge condition matters because automation puts a continuous rotational load on hinges that manual operation does not. Worn, corroded, or loose hinges will fail quickly under motor load. Most retrofit projects include hinge replacement or upgrade as part of the specification. If you need gate upgrades and maintenance in London, our network includes specialists who assess hinges as part of every survey.
Surface-Mounted Ram-Arm Motor Costs
Ram-arm motors are the most affordable and straightforward automation option for swing gates. They mount on the back of the gate leaf and post, are visible when the gate is open, and require no excavation or groundwork beyond an electrical connection.
For supply and installation of a quality branded ram-arm motor system — from manufacturers such as BFT Automation, CAME, or FAAC — expect to pay £1,200 to £2,200 for a pair of motors on double swing gates, fully installed and commissioned. This includes the control board, safety photocells, two remote controls, and basic programming.
Add-ons that most homeowners include at the same time: a basic audio intercom (£150 to £300), a GSM opener for phone-based gate control (£200 to £400), or a video intercom with smartphone app integration (£350 to £700 fitted). These are most cost-effectively added at the same time as the motor installation since the cable runs are already open.
Underground Motor Costs
Underground motors are the premium option for swing gates. Mounted in a waterproof housing beneath the gate post cap, they are completely invisible when the gate is closed — only the gate itself is visible, with no external motor housings or arm linkages.
The cost premium over ram-arm systems reflects the hardware quality and the additional installation work. A pair of underground motors from a quality manufacturer typically costs £2,200 to £3,800 for supply and installation, depending on the motor specification and any groundwork required.
A site survey is mandatory before any retrofit automation project is quoted. Retrofitting electric gates cost estimates provided without a site visit are unreliable — ground conditions, cable routing distances, gate weight, and hinge condition all materially affect the final price. Leave your phone number in the form above and our team will arrange a fast callback to discuss your specific project and book a free survey.
