Shadow Loop Versus Reverse Loop For Gate Openers

Loop For Gate Openers

When installing loops in your driveway, you may not know that you'll need more than one loop for a better safety system. Four loops could be necessary, depending on whether you have a swing or slide gate. Two critical loops for a driveway are a shadow loop and a reverse loop for gate openers. These loops both have specific purposes of reinforcing the loop system of any gate.


Reverse Loops For Gate Openers

Reverse Loops are used to hold or reverse a gate when a vehicle is detected. These loops can stop accidents from happening.


Imagine exiting your driveway, ready to make your way to work, but you notice your laptop is still in the house. You leave your car in the path of a sliding gate and walk down the driveway to your home. You already know what will happen if you don't have a reverse loop. But, if you've thankfully installed a reverse loop, your gate stops as soon as it senses a vehicle. This is why a reverse gate is essential for gate safety and a must for slide and swing gates.


Shadow Loops For Gate Openers

Also known as phantom or center loops, these are necessary for a swing gate. While shadow loops do not need to go on slide gates, swing gates require an additional loop under the swing path. In many swing gates, there is a blind spot between the inside and outside of a reverse loop. This blind spot prevents cars from being detected when a swing gate is swinging inward or outward. A shadow loop will stop a car from being hit in front of the swing gate's path and prevent future accidents.


What Do I Need For A Swing Gate Loop System?

  • A Shadow Loop Under Swing Path Of Gate
  • An Inside Reverse Or Exit Loop
  • And An Additional Outside Reverse Loop

What Do I Need For A Slide Gate Loop System?

  • An Inside Reverse Or Exit Loop
  • And An Outside Reverse Loop



If you need further information about placing safety loops in a driveway or help to choose the right size, please see the pages below for reference.

How Vehicle Loops Work

Loops Sizes For Your Residential Driveway