Kostum FAQ — Gates

At Kostum, a sloped lot isn’t a problem. We offer two Bespoke solutions tailored to your specific layout:

• The “downward-sloping” gate: Ideal for a side slope. The bottom of the gate (swing or sliding) is cut to perfectly follow the contour of your ground.

• The slope regulator: For an entrance that slopes upward toward the house. This system allows the panels of a swing gate to lift up when opening so they don’t hit the ground.

Extra tip: A sliding gate is often the simplest solution on sloped terrain, provided you have the necessary sliding clearance.

Find out more here: Article on sloped terrain, coming soon in the landscaping guide

For very Windy zones, only openwork models are compatible.

For moderately windy zones,louvred models are also an option. Fully boarded models should be avoided because they catch too much wind during storms.

The prior building declaration required to install a gate is not mandatory in all cases. You must submit this declaration if your municipality’s local urban planning regulations require it, if your property is located in a protected area or near a historic monument, or if you are creating a new opening onto the street. In all other cases, you do not need to submit a building declaration.

Some municipalities prohibit certain materials, colours, or gate designs, so you should always consult your municipality’s local urban planning regulations.

Aluminum is ideal because it doesn’t rust. For coastal areas, choose a Qualimarine-certified Coating: this label guarantees a reinforced surface treatment that protects the paint against salt corrosion. By the sea, to remove sea salt, we recommend regular maintenance: water, a mild soap, and a non-abrasive cloth, to be done every 3 to 6 months.

Recommended products:

• pH-neutral household or industrial cleaning products

• pH-neutral window cleaners and dishwashing detergents

How do I clean aluminum?

Rinse with a water jet to remove mud and dirt particles to avoid any abrasive effects. Use a non-abrasive sponge with warm water and a mild detergent (pH 5 to 7). Then rinse with clean water without additives. You can wipe it down with a soft, absorbent cloth

Parts not naturally washed by rainwater should be cleaned more frequently than exposed surfaces.

You must report the claim to your insurance company within 5 business days. At the same time, contact a qualified contractor to obtain at least two detailed quotes. Do not proceed with replacement before receiving the insurer’s approval.

• Your damage is due to severe weather: contact your home insurance provider. Note that basic policies do not always cover outdoor fixtures such as gates.

• Your damage is caused by a vehicle: if an identified third party is at fault, their auto liability insurance will cover the costs based on an accident report completed by both parties. If you caused the damage with your own vehicle, check the “all-risk” coverage in your auto policy or the specific coverage under your home insurance. In the event of a hit-and-run, you must file a police report within 48 hours and report the damage.

To learn more,read our full article

The Cosy aluminum range is fully removable. We can therefore easily replace any component of your gate. You can contact your installer, who will request a repair quote from our company.

In the event of a power outage or malfunction, it is essential to know how to disengage your motor. To open your sliding or swing gate without a remote control, you can insert a disengagement key into the motor unit. Your gate will then open manually.

Our advice: Always keep your disengagement key within reach (or in your car) so you don’t get locked out, since the motor unit is located inside your property!

In case of strong winds or a forecast storm, we recommend opening your gate:

• For a sliding gate: once open, a sliding gate is generally protected. It runs along a wall, fence, or hedge, which acts as a natural shield.

• For a swing gate: an open swing gate has a much smaller surface area directly exposed to the wind. The wind will pass through or around it more easily.

All our models are reinforced as standard so that they are suitable for automation later by drilling and tapping the holes. The location of the reinforcements varies by model. It is indicated in the technical description for each model. Additionally, the location of the reinforcement is marked by a sticker affixed to your gate.

Our swing gates and sliding gates, both manual and automated, are designed and manufactured for your safety in compliance with the European standard NF EN 13241-1. We have been awarded CE conformity following testing, which guarantees quality and manufacturing consistency. All our gates feature a marking certifying compliance with this regulation. Our performance declarations are available upon request.