It’s a fair question. In an age where online reviews can be bought, manipulated, or artificially inflated, it’s important to know who you can trust.

We always encourage prospective customers to do their own research when comparing local service providers. Look beyond the overall rating and consider the consistency, longevity, and authenticity of the feedback being left.

At AES (Scotland) Ltd, every review, testimonial, and star rating has been earned through genuine hard work carried out for real paying clients. Our reputation has been built steadily over many years, not through marketing shortcuts or manufactured feedback.

We do not buy reviews, incentivise customers to leave positive feedback, or use third parties to artificially boost our ratings. The reviews you see across our platforms reflect real genuine experiences from homeowners, businesses, and organisations who have chosen to work with us.

We’re extremely proud that our reputation has been built the traditional way: by delivering a reliable service, maintaining very high standards, and earning the trust of our customers one job at a time. We believe that genuine feedback is one of the strongest indicators of a company’s integrity, and we’re grateful to every customer who has taken the time to share their experience.

Yes. AES (Scotland) Ltd is Edinburgh Trading Standards vetted, providing customers with additional confidence in our professionalism, transparency, and business practices.

Yes. We carry public liability insurance with cover of up to £10,000,000, giving our customers added peace of mind when we are working on their property.

Yes. We are registered Gate Safe installers and are comitted to promoting safe installation, maintenance, and operation practices

AES Scotland were one of the first gate automation specialists in Scotland to introduce Roger Technology’s brushless automation.

We have been installing Roger Technology automation systems across Scotland for over 10 years and were among the earliest gate and barrier specialists in Scotland to adopt the manufacturer’s brushless technology range. Our long-standing experience means we understand the products inside and out, from system design and installation through to servicing and repairs.

We offer free quotations and can advise on the most suitable solution for your property and location.

Yes. Every project is tailored to suit your property’s security requirements, aesthetics, and budget.

It depends on the layout of your driveway. Swing gates require clearance space to open inwards or outwards, while sliding gates run along a track and are often better suited to properties with limited depth or sloping driveways.

We install sliding gates, swing gates, cantilever gates, timber gates, steel gates, aluminium gates, composite gates and bespoke automated entrance systems.

Yes. We can safely remove and dispose of your existing gate before installing your new automated or manual gate system. We’ll assess the current installation during your site survey and include removal within your quotation where required.

Automatic gates are generally more secure than manual gates because they provide controlled access to your property. They can be integrated with access control systems, intercoms, keypads, fobs, ANPR systems, and CCTV for enhanced security.

In the event of a power failure, most automated gate systems include a manual release mechanism. This allows the gates to be disengaged using a key so they can be opened and closed by hand until power is restored. Battery backup systems can also be installed for continued operation during outages

No, automatic gates are generally very energy efficient. In standby mode, most residential systems use minimal power, and energy consumption during each opening and closing cycle is very low, typically costing only fractions of a penny per operation.

Automated gates provide greater convenience, improved security, controlled access, and increased property value. With remote controls, keypads, intercoms, and smartphone integration available, you can operate your gates without leaving your vehicle.

Modern automated gates are fitted with multiple safety devices, including photocells, safety edges, obstacle detection systems, and force limitation technology. These systems detect vehicles, people, or objects and immediately stop or reverse the gate if an obstruction is detected.

A loop detector is a safety and automation device installed beneath the driveway surface. It detects the presence of a vehicle above it and can trigger the gate to open automatically, typically used for convenient exit systems.

No, aluminium gates are extremely low maintenance. They typically only need occasional cleaning with mild soapy water to remove dirt and debris. Unlike timber, they do not require painting, staining, or treating to protect against weathering.

Yes, aluminium gates are highly suitable for automation. Their relatively lightweight structure compared to steel makes them ideal for electric gate motors, reducing strain on the system. They can be integrated with a range of access control options such as keypads, remote controls, intercoms, and smart entry systems.

Wooden driveway gates provide a strong physical barrier that enhances privacy and security for a property. When properly constructed and fitted with quality ironmongery or automation systems, they help deter unauthorised access while clearly defining boundary lines.

Yes, wooden gates are widely used on rural and agricultural properties due to their strength, natural appearance, and ability to blend into the landscape. Field and estate-style gates are particularly popular for driveways, farms, and country homes.

Yes, our wooden gates are made to measure, allowing full customisation of height, width, style, and finish. This ensures a perfect fit for the entrance while achieving a design that complements your property’s overall look.

Wooden gates can be finished in a variety of ways, including natural oil treatments, stains, paints, or protective sealants. These finishes help enhance the appearance of the timber while protecting it from weather exposure and extending its lifespan.

Bespoke wooden gates are individually designed and manufactured to fit exact measurements and specific style preferences, while standard gates are produced in fixed sizes and designs. Bespoke options offer greater flexibility, a better fit, and a more tailored appearance.

Wrought iron and steel gates are typically finished with protective coatings such as galvanising and powder coating. These finishes help protect against corrosion, weathering and everyday wear, while also allowing a wide choice of colours and styles to suit your property.

Wrought iron and steel gates require very little maintenance when properly finished. Occasional cleaning and periodic inspection are usually enough to keep them in good condition. High-quality protective coatings significantly reduce the risk of rust and extend the lifespan of the gates.

Yes, metal gates can perform very well in harsh weather conditions when properly treated. Galvanising and powder coating provide strong protection against corrosion, making them suitable for exposed or coastal environments where durability is especially important.

Most domestic electric gates fall under permitted development. However, planning permission may be required if your property is in a conservation area, if you are replacing or altering boundary structures, or if the gates exceed certain height restrictions. If in doubt, it’s best to check with your local planning authority before installation.

It’s strongly recommended to involve your gate installer before any new driveway surface is laid. Most automated gate systems require underground cabling, foundations, and safety loop preparation, which are best installed prior to final surfacing to avoid disruption or additional costs later

Both options have advantages depending on your setup. Underground motors offer a discreet finish but require suitable ground conditions and drainage. Above-ground (surface-mounted) motors are easier to access for maintenance and can be ideal for retrofit installations. A site survey is usually needed to determine the best option.

Photocells are safety sensors that create an invisible beam across the gate opening. If the beam is broken while the gates are closing, the system will stop or reverse to prevent contact with a vehicle, person, or obstruction.

Gate remotes (keyfobs) operate via a secure radio signal to the gate control panel, usually within a range of around 30 – 50 metres, depending on site conditions. For safety, gates should always be operated with clear visibility to ensure the area is unobstructed.

Yes. Wind loading is an important design factor, particularly for solid or privacy gates. Large or fully sheeted gates can act like sails, so the motor, hinges, and structural posts must be properly specified to handle wind exposure safely and reliably.

Regular maintenance is key to long-term reliability. Professional installation, quality components, and scheduled servicing all help extend system lifespan. Small issues should be addressed early, as minor faults can develop into larger system failures if left unattended.
Routine servicing also helps identify wear and tear before it becomes a problem, keeping the system operating safely and efficiently.

The right security fencing depends on factors such as the level of security needed, site location, visibility requirements, and budget. High-risk sites may benefit from palisade or anti-climb systems, while lower-risk areas may prefer mesh or railings for visibility and access control.

In most cases, planning permission is not required for security fencing unless it exceeds height limits or is installed in a conservation area, listed property, or near public highways. It is always recommended to check local planning regulations before installation.

Yes, security fencing can be fully customised to match existing buildings, gates, and boundary lines. Options include different heights, colours, coatings, and configurations to ensure a consistent and professional appearance across the site.

Modern commercial fencing systems are designed to provide a high level of security, with anti-climb features, reinforced materials, and robust installation methods. When combined with controlled access points, they create an effective perimeter security solution.

Yes, most security fencing systems are modular and can be extended or upgraded as site requirements change. Additional panels, increased height, or integrated access points can be added to improve security over time.

Pedestrian gates are available in a wide range of materials including aluminium, timber, composite and steel. Each material offers different benefits, from modern low-maintenance aluminium to traditional wooden or decorative metal designs.

Yes, pedestrian gates can be designed to perfectly match driveway gates in style, colour and finish. Bespoke manufacturing allows for a consistent look across the entire entrance for a cohesive and professional appearance.

Yes, pedestrian gates can provide a high level of security when fitted with quality locks, hinges and frames. They can also be integrated with access control systems such as keypad entry, intercoms or smart locking systems for added protection.

While pedestrian gates are usually manual, they can be fitted with electric locks or access control systems for added convenience. Options include keypad entry, magnetic locks, intercom systems and remote release mechanisms.

Pedestrian gates are typically designed to standard walking widths but can be made to measure depending on the property layout. Bespoke sizing ensures a perfect fit for gardens, driveways and side entrances.

Yes. We offer planned maintenance packages to keep gates, barriers and access control systems operating safely and efficiently.

Contact our team. We will diagnose the issue and arrange a repair visit if required.

Yes. We can often repair and service systems regardless of who originally installed them.

We recommend servicing automatic barriers at least once or twice per year, depending on usage levels. Regular servicing helps maintain reliability, safety compliance, and operational performance while reducing the risk of unexpected breakdowns.

A standard residential electric gate installation typically takes around 2 to 5 days. This can vary depending on the level of groundwork required, cable runs, and the type of automation system being installed.

The cost of an automatic barrier system depends on factors such as barrier length, usage levels, access control requirements, installation complexity, and site conditions. Contact us for a free site survey and tailored quotation.

Our service doesn’t end once the installation is complete. We provide ongoing aftercare and support, including technical advice, maintenance, servicing, and assistance with any issues that may arise, helping to keep your system operating safely and reliably.