
Boom Barriers, which started functioning in the late 1920’s, in the United States can be said as a security gate run by motors, sensors and RFID to control the traffic. We at Glidemaster understand that the need for boom barriers is now high, especially in residential areas, commercial complexes, parking facilities, and industrial zones, where vehicle access is closely managed for smooth entry and exit.
Proper installation and maintenance of boom barriers are necessary as they make them durable and reliable, with no complaints for a long time. Boom barriers from us have a tradition of working between 5 and 10 years if they are well-maintained. Poor installation practices are one of the common reasons for malfunctioning these products, resulting in safety risks and frequent complaints.
Let’s understand the common mistakes that are made during its installation, resulting in reducing its lifespan.
Incorrect Site- Assessment and Planning
The wrong judgment and assessment of the installation site is one of the common mistakes that are being made by installers. The requirements of one location will be different from those of another. Traffic flow, entry width, usage frequency and environmental conditions have to be evaluated before making a final decision on installation in a particular location.
Operational inefficiencies and premature wear are common when a boom barrier is wrongly selected/ installed in an area. Internal parts will not work efficiently when there are environmental disturbances, such as dust, moisture, or extreme temperatures. This is the reason why site surveys are recommended before the installation.
Choosing the Wrong Boom Arm Length or Type
The selection of the boom arm based on the width of the entry and the types of vehicles that are passing through is another crucial aspect that has to be considered. An incorrect arm, that is too short or too long, will cause serious issues in the future.
The motor and mounting system are likely to get damaged in an overly long arm. This will gradually lead to the potential failure of the system. A shorter arm, on the other hand, will make it easy for the unauthorised vehicle to pass through. Collisions and safety hazards are common in areas where this error happens.
Poor Electrical Setup and Wiring
Electrical mistakes during the installation should not be ignored. The performance of the booming system will be at risk if there is an unstable voltage supply, incorrect wiring, or poor connections. This carelessness can cost you heavily, as short circuits, power surges, and damage to sensitive components cannot be avoided.
An incorrect voltage system will result in damage to sensitive components or the system as a whole. Long-term damage is sure if the wiring is exposed to moisture. You can extend the lifespan of the system if the evaluation is done on time.
Weak foundation and Improper Mounting
A strong foundation is essential for boom barriers to function properly. A weak foundation can cause misalignments, vibration, and even structural damage over the course of time. The same happens when there is improper mounting, resulting in tilt or shifts. This will weaken the motor and the moving parts.
Mechanical failures and inefficiency of the system will be regular if operators don’t take proper measures to handle these issues.
Ignoring Safety Devices and Sensor Calibration
Safety Sensors have a major role in the proper functioning of boom barriers. Sensors, such as photocells, loop detectors, and obstacle detection systems, are the major ones. These components have to be properly installed to avoid future complications. Misaligned sensors will not be able to properly detect vehicles or pedestrians.
Installers even take the risk of disabling the safety features so that they can install the system easily. Proper testing of the safety devices is necessary, as this helps to avoid accidents, protecting both the equipment and users.
Lack of Integration with Access Controls
The present-day boom barriers are connected with access control systems, such as RFID, Automatic Number Plate Recognition, or ticketing systems. The lack of integration with these systems will cause system failures and inefficiencies. Delays and incorrect access permissions are common if there is poor integration.
Both the user experience and the system will be affected by this carelessness, especially in the case of automatic boom barriers. Seamless integration, on the other hand, will help to maintain efficiency and reduce strain on the system.
Readmore for know about benefits of automatic boom barriers.
Skipping Routine Maintenance Planning
The maintenance plan should be included during the installation of the system. Regular inspections, cleaning, and lubrication will help to avoid these mishappenings to a great extent. Improper maintenance will result in dirt accumulation, worn-out parts, and loose fittings. This may appear as a small problem now, but it will lead to bigger problems in the future.
Regular maintenance is necessary, as this will extend the life of the internal components and the complete system.
Using Low Quality Components and Accessories
The usage of low-quality components is also a costly error that installers make. From control boards to wiring materials, they follow this pattern, prioritising their convenience. Cheap components will not work for a long time, causing breakdowns and affecting the reliability of the system.
Damaged accessories can cause electrical damage in the long run. At the same time, investing your money and effort into the right product and certified components can positively influence the performance of the system.
Inadequate User Training
The lack of user training can hinder the performance of the barrier, reducing its lifespan. Operators who don’t receive proper training will not be able to work with it properly. They will ignore the warning signs or even try manual rides, which is not recommended.
This can also lead to accidental damage and system failure. This is why providing proper training to operators is necessary. They will be able to operate the system efficiently, resulting in proper results.
Why Glidemaster Stands Out
Glidemaster is one of the leading providers of automatic shutters in Kerala and a reputed brand in South India, delivering top-quality boom barriers. We tick every box with our products and excellently supply them on time. We mark our presence from parking lots to gated communities and ensure you get future-ready boom barriers.
We focus on delivering user-friendly products that are easy to use for operators. We are committed to quality assurance and timely service support, maximising the performance of our products.
Choose Glidemaster Impex India and experience the perfect blend of safety, style, and smart automation. Contact us today to upgrade your space with shutters that last a lifetime.

