For over 40 years, Fred’s Fencing has been San Diego’s go to family business for securing homes and commercial properties. If you are looking for automatic driveway gates in San Diego, you aren’t just buying a motor and some metal, you are investing in the safety and curb appeal of your property.

We know that no two driveways in San Diego County are the same. From the steep hills of La Jolla to the alleyways of North Park and the sprawling estates in Rancho Santa Fe, we design automatic gate installations that actually work for your specific terrain. Whether you need a brand-new custom electric gate, a retrofit for an existing fence, or reliable electric gate repair, our family is here to help yours.

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Our Automated Driveway Gate in Action

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Why Choose Automatic Gates?

Installing a motorized driveway gate is one of the smartest upgrades you can make, but the reasons go beyond just “luxury.”

  • Real Security: In dense neighborhoods, an automatic fence gate acts as the first line of defense. It stops unauthorized vehicles from turning around in your driveway and keeps porch pirates away from your front door.
  • Safety for Families: If you have kids or dogs, an auto driveway gate keeps them safe inside the perimeter, away from busy streets.
  • Convenience: There is nothing worse than getting out of your car in the rain to open a heavy gate. With a remote control driveway gate, keypad entry, or smartphone access, you control entry without lifting a finger.

Types of Automated Gates We Install

Choosing the right system is critical. We don’t just sell you a gate; we engineer a solution based on your driveway’s slope and space.

1. Sliding Gates (Best for Space Saving)

Automatic sliding entrance gates are the most popular choice for properties with short driveways or steep inclines where a swing gate would hit the ground. These slide parallel to the fence line, maximizing your parking space.

View Sliding Gates

2. Swing Gates (The Classic Look)

If you have a flat driveway and ample room, a swing gate offers that classic estate feel. We can automate single or dual swing gates using heavy duty actuators that handle the coastal wind load.

View Sliding Gates

3. Cantilever & Lift Gates

For uneven ground or industrial sites where tracks aren't an option, we utilize cantilever systems. These are heavy duty automatic gate systems designed for high cycle use.

Which Gate Style is Right for You?

Feature Sliding Gates Swing Gates Cantilever Gates
Best For
Short driveways or steep slopes
Flat driveways with plenty of depth
Uneven ground/Commercial sites
Space Required
Side room along the fence
Deep clearance into the driveway
Large side counterbalance area
Maintenance
Medium (Track needs cleaning)
Low (Hinges need lubrication)
Low (No track on ground)
Cost
Moderate
Generally Lower
Higher (Hardware costs)
Security Level
High (Harder to force open)
Medium
High

Material Options: Built for the Coast

San Diego’s salty air can be tough on metal. That’s why we specialize in materials that last.

  • Aluminum Driveway Gates : These are lightweight and naturally rust proof. Aluminum driveway gates in San Diego are incredibly popular because they put less strain on the motor and resist corrosion from the ocean breeze.
  • Steel & Iron : For maximum impact resistance and classic styling, we use heavy gauge steel treated with marine grade powder coating to prevent rust.
  • Wood & Privacy Composites : We can build custom electric gates with wood infills or composite slats for total privacy.

Our Installation Process & Safety Promise

We believe that a great gate is only as good as its installation. At Fred’s Fencing, we don’t cut corners. Our process is designed to ensure your automated gate is not only beautiful but legally compliant and safe for your family.

License & Certification

Fully Licensed: We operate under Fred’s Fencing State License Contractor Number 529726.Safety Compliant: All our installations meet California safety codes and UL 325 gate automation standards.Permit Handling: We navigate the local bureaucracy for you, assisting with necessary city permits to ensure your project is up to code from day one.

How We Work From Estimate to Automation

We have refined our workflow over 40 years to be seamless and transparent.

1. On-Site Consultation

We don’t quote over the phone because we need to see the land. We assess your driveway’s slope, available solar/electric power sources, and wind exposure to recommend the right motor torque and gate material.

2. The "No-Surprises" Estimate

You receive a detailed written quote that breaks down the cost of materials, the motor, and labor. We believe in honest pricing—no hidden fees, ever

3. Fabrication & Customization

Whether it’s a heavy-gauge steel swing gate or a lightweight aluminum slider, we fabricate your gate to exact measurements. This is where we apply marine-grade coatings to protect against the San Diego coastal air

4. Installation & Safety Integration

This is the most critical step. We install the posts, mount the gate, and integrate the automation system.Safety First: We install mandatory UL 325 safety devices, including photo-eye sensors (to stop the gate if a child or car crosses its path) and reversing edge sensors to prevent entrapment.

5. Testing & Handoff

We don’t leave until you are comfortable. We test the system’s manual release (for power outages), program your remotes/keypads, and show you exactly how to operate your new system.

Electric Gate Repair & Maintenance in San Diego

Even the best automatic driveway gate installation needs maintenance eventually. If your gate is stuck, making grinding noises, or the remote has stopped working, Fred’s Fencing offers fast electric gate repair.

We often get calls from homeowners frustrated with other contractors, searching for “fast electric gate repair San Diego” or “fix electric gate.” Unlike fly-by-night operators, Fred’s Fencing has a physical shop in San Diego. We answer our phones, show up on time, and our trucks are fully stocked to fix the issue in one visit..

Our Repair Services Cover:

  • Motorized gate repair (LiftMaster, Viking, DoorKing, and more).
  • Sliding gate repair (Chain replacements, track alignment).
  • Sensor fixes: Re-aligning photo-eyes that stop the gate from closing.
  • Access Control: Fixing keypads, intercoms, and telephone entry systems.

We also offer automatic gate servicing. A simple annual tune up, greasing hinges, checking chain tension, and testing safety reverse sensors can save you thousands in emergency repairs later.

Our Work

Automated driveway gate installed in san diego
Modern automatic iron driveway gate installed in La Jolla
Automatic Sliding gate installation in San Diego
black wrought automatic iron driveway gate system Oceanside
Automated Security gate installed Del Mar
ALEKO Venice Style Dual Swing Automatic Driveway Gate
Automated driveway gate installed in san diego

Get Your Free Gate Estimate Today

Don’t leave your property vulnerable. Whether you need a new custom gate or a quick repair, trust the family that’s been protecting San Diego for 40 years.

(619) 562-5331
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Areas We Serve

Fred’s Fencing proudly provides automated driveway gate and fence installation, repair, and customization across San Diego and the surrounding coastal communities. Our team works closely with homeowners and businesses who want a secure, modern, and reliable gate system built to match their property and lifestyle.
We serve clients throughout:

  • San Diego
  • Point Loma
  • Ocean Beach
  • La Jolla
  • Pacific Beach
  • Del Mar
  • Solana Beach
  • Encinitas
  • Carlsbad
  • Leucadia
  • Oceanside
  • Coronado

From high end neighborhoods in La Jolla and Del Mar to coastal homes in Encinitas, Carlsbad, and Oceanside, we ensure every project receives expert craftsmanship and dependable service. If you’re located in any of these areas and need a trusted team for automated driveway gates, Fred’s Fencing is ready to help.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you automate my existing manual gate?

Yes, in most cases. As experienced electric gate installers, we can weld brackets onto your existing gate and install a motor, provided the gate swings or slides freely and the posts are strong enough to handle the torque.

The price varies significantly based on size, material, and motor type. Residential automatic driveway gates are generally more affordable than commercial & HOA gate systems. We provide free, transparent estimates so you know exactly what the project involves, no hidden fees.

We frequently install solar & energy efficient automated gates with heavy-duty battery backups, ensuring your gate works even during a power outage or a string of cloudy days.

In the San Diego climate, a high-quality residential gate operator typically lasts 10 to 15 years with proper maintenance. However, coastal areas (like La Jolla or Del Mar) may see faster wear due to salt air. Regular greasing and keeping the track clean are the best ways to extend your motor’s life.

Yes. An automated gate boosts “curb appeal” and perceived exclusivity. More importantly, it adds tangible value by increasing security and privacy. For many buyers in San Diego, a secured perimeter for pets and children is a major selling point that offers a strong return on investment.

Chain drive is the traditional method; it’s reliable and cost effective but can be slightly noisier and the chain stretches over time. Rack and pinion (where a gear on the motor meshes directly with a toothed track on the gate) is quieter, smoother, and requires less maintenance. We can help you decide which is best for your specific driveway grade.