IB Fabbin

Name: IB Fabbin
Address: Warana, QLD, AU
Telephone: +61413396016

Call Website

IB Fabbin specialise in the manufacturing and installation of custom aluminum fences, gates, and screens.

27/10/2026

GATE SAFETY: WHY SAFETY BEAMS MATTER

If you have an automated driveway gate, safety beams are an important part of the setup.

So, what do they actually do?

Safety beams use an infrared signal across an entry point. If something interrupts that beam while the gate is operating, the system can respond by stopping or reversing the gate, depending on how it’s configured.

Here’s why they matter:

✔️ Help detect obstructions such as a vehicle or person in the beam’s path.

✔️ Add another layer of protection when used as part of a properly designed and installed gate safety system.

✔️ Need to be kept clear. Dirt, leaves or objects blocking the sensors can affect their operation.

✔️ Need regular checks. If a beam is damaged or misaligned, it may not work as intended.

Safety beams are one part of gate safety, not a guarantee against every accident. Correct installation, suitable safety devices and regular maintenance all matter.

At IB Fabbin, we install automated gates and safety equipment across the Sunshine Coast. If you’re unsure whether your existing setup has safety beams or they’re working correctly, it’s worth having them checked.

📞 Ian: 0413 396 016
🌐 www.ibfabbin.com.au

Question: Does your automated gate have safety beams fitted?

22/10/2026

HAD A STORM? HERE’S WHAT TO CHECK ON YOUR GATE 🌧️

After strong winds and heavy rain, it’s worth taking a few minutes to check your gate is still operating as it should.

Here’s what to look for:

✔️ Check the hinges and fixings. Look for loose bolts, movement or signs of damage.

✔️ Look for sagging or dragging. Is the gate sitting unevenly or rubbing against the ground?

✔️ Check the track. For sliding gates, clear away leaves, sticks and debris that could affect movement.

✔️ Inspect the gate motor. Look for visible damage, exposed wiring or anything that doesn’t look right. Don’t open electrical enclosures or touch damaged wiring.

✔️ Test the operation. If it’s safe to do so, check that the gate opens and closes smoothly and that its safety devices are working as intended.

A word of advice: If your gate is suddenly noisy, moving unevenly or struggling to open, don’t force it. Continuing to operate a damaged gate can make the problem worse.

At IB Fabbin, we work with custom aluminium gates and gate automation across the Sunshine Coast, including installation, fault finding, repairs and maintenance.

If something doesn’t look right after a storm, get it checked before it becomes a bigger problem.

📞 Ian: 0413 396 016
🌐 www.ibfabbin.com.au

Quick question: What’s the first thing you check after a storm: your fence, your gate or your outdoor area?

20/10/2026

GATE MAINTENANCE TIP: DON’T FORGET THE HINGES 🔧

Ever noticed your gate getting harder to open or starting to squeak? The hinges might need a little attention.

A few simple checks can help keep your gate moving smoothly:

✔️ Keep hinges clean. Wipe away dirt, dust and built-up grime.

✔️ Lubricate regularly. Use a suitable lubricant for your gate hinges and follow the product instructions.

✔️ Watch for changes. If your gate starts dragging, sagging or feeling heavier than usual, don’t ignore it. The hinges, fixings or gate alignment may need attention.

✔️ Check after storms. Strong wind and heavy rain can sometimes reveal loose fixings or movement.

How often do you check your gate hinges?

Need a hand with a gate that’s getting hard to open or close? Give Ian a call on 0413 396 016.

IB Fabbin | Custom Gates & Gate Automation
🌐 www.ibfabbin.com.au

19/10/2026

SLIDING VS. SWING GATES: WHICH SUITS YOUR DRIVEWAY?

Both are great options, but your driveway layout can make the decision easier.

SLIDING GATES
✔️ Ideal where there’s limited space inside the driveway
✔️ Won’t swing into your driveway or onto the road
✔️ Need enough room beside the driveway for the gate to slide open

SWING GATES
✔️ A classic option for many homes
✔️ Can work well with a clear, level driveway
✔️ Need enough room for the gate to swing open

THINGS TO CONSIDER
• How much space do you have?
• Is your driveway sloping?
• Where will your vehicles be parked?
• Are you planning to add gate automation?

At IB Fabbin, we custom build aluminium sliding and swing gates to suit your property.

💬 Your turn: would you choose a sliding gate or a swing gate? Tell us why in the comments!

📞 0413 396 016
🌐 www.ibfabbin.com.au

IB Fabbin | Sunshine Coast

16/10/2026

ALUMINIUM VS TIMBER: WHICH WOULD YOU CHOOSE?

Choosing a new driveway gate? Here are a few things to consider.

Aluminium
▪️Low maintenance
▪️Won’t rot or warp like timber can
▪️Termite resistant
▪️No regular sanding or staining
▪️Available in a range of colours and designs

Timber
▪️Natural timber grain and texture
▪️Can be stained or painted in different finishes
▪️Requires ongoing maintenance
▪️Can be affected by moisture, rot and termites

Both can look great, but the right choice depends on your home, budget and how much maintenance you’re prepared to do.

A couple of questions for you:

Would you choose the natural look of timber or the low maintenance of aluminium?

Do you prefer a traditional timber gate or a modern aluminium design?

Let us know in the comments!

At IB Fabbin, we custom build aluminium driveway gates, pedestrian gates, fencing and privacy screens across the Sunshine Coast.

📞 0413 396 016
🌐 www.ibfabbin.com.au

15/10/2026

CHOOSING A NEW DRIVEWAY GATE? HERE’S WHAT TO CONSIDER.

Before choosing a design, think about how you use your driveway and what you need your gate to do.

1. Space available
A sliding gate needs room to slide beside the driveway. A swing gate needs enough room to open without hitting vehicles or sloping ground.

2. Privacy
Vertical battens, horizontal slats and louvre designs offer different levels of privacy. Consider how much you want to see through the gate.

3. Style
Choose a design and colour that complement your home and existing fencing.

4. Material
Aluminium is a popular choice on the Sunshine Coast because it’s lightweight, termite resistant and requires minimal maintenance.

5. Automation
If you’d like an automated gate, consider this early. The gate design, weight and available space all affect which motor will be suitable.

6. Everyday access
Think about pedestrian access, visitors and how often you’ll open the gate. A matching pedestrian gate may be worth considering.

At IB Fabbin, we measure onsite and custom build gates to suit your property and how you plan to use them.

Planning a new driveway gate? Save this post for when you’re ready to explore your options.

📞 0413 396 016
🌐 www.ibfabbin.com.au

Address

Warana, QLD

Telephone

+61413396016

Website

http://www.ibfabbin.com.au/

Alerts

Be the first to know and let us send you an email when IB Fabbin posts news and promotions. Your email address will not be used for any other purpose, and you can unsubscribe at any time.