Which Gate Type Should I Choose?

Which Gate Type Should I Choose?

When looking for a new gate, it is intimidating to absorb all the necessary information to make an educated decision. This brief tutorial clarifies the various gate types and the basic principles of their design. A link leads to more information about the particular gate type for each category. If you have any more questions that aren't covered here, please email us or fill out our enquiry form.

Garden

The most recognisable and widely used gate type in the UK, the garden gate, is most commonly used to secure small pedestrian entrances. It comprises a single panel with hinges on one side and the latch on the opposing side. They can be mounted directly to an existing masonry surface or, where required, can also be attached to posts. They are usually around 3-4ft in width; the most common heights are 3ft. You can find them in a wide range of metal and timber designs, and they are straightforward to fit, making them an excellent choice for DIY installations.

Benefits

• Easy to install.
• Very affordable to buy.
• It provides an effective visual deterrent, thus helping to improve security.
• Available in a wide range of modern and traditional designs.
• Easy to open and close.
• Specific designs can incorporate a key lock mechanism.
• The metal design has a low-maintenance zinc-plated (electro-galvanised) option, which will protect against rust and corrosion.
• Timber designs can be stained or painted to match the existing surroundings.

Side

Capable of providing a high level of security, a side gate is suitable for any pedestrian entrance that needs protection from the threat of unlawful access. They consist of a single panel that is most commonly 6-7ft in height. Concerning the width, they are typically available to span openings up to 4ft in width. This help prevents the gate from being climbed over. 

Benefits

• It adds a layer of security and privacy to any setting.
• Quick and easy to install.
• Solid and robust construction.
• Manufactured in a vast selection of metal and timber designs.
• Available in a choice of standard and bespoke size options.
• Suitable for installation onto various surfaces, including brickwork, metal and timber posts.
• The possibility of adding a lock.
• Require minimal amounts of maintenance
• It will keep pets, children and your property safe from the threat of criminals and trespassers.

Driveway

Driveway gates are the everyday solution for securing large entrances, such as your property's primary vehicle access point. The most common type is the 50/50 configuration, where each gate is equal in size however other types are available such as bi folding options and 1/3rd to 2/3rd split layouts although these are less prevelant. Depending on the user's requirements, they are available in various materials, each with its benefits and drawbacks. For example, when spanning large openings, metal is an excellent choice; however, timber driveway gates are a sensible solution if you want to add charm and character to your property. 

Benefits

• They create a clearly defined boundary to your property. 
• Easy to operate.
• They will secure your vehicle and valuables.
• Suitable for most residential applications.
• Are capable of spanning large openings.
• Manufactured in many designs in a choice of metal, wood and aluminium.

Estate

When a high level of security or privacy is required, the most practical solution is estate gates. These are taller versions of the above-mentioned driveway gates. They are generally made at heights of 1.8m, making them difficult to scale or climb over. Suitable for most residential applications, estate gates are readily available in a range of standard and made-to-measure sizes and can be purchased in metal, timber and aluminium design options.

Benefits

• They will provide a high level of security
• Increased the kerb appeal of your property.
• Suitable for automation.
• Can be mounted directly to existing masonry surfaces
• Available to purchase in a vast selection of designs
• Keeps your home and garden safe and secure
• They can be fabricated from timber, wrought iron and aluminium. 

Additional Information

We have provided many useful information pages on our website to help you select the correct gate type to suit your requirements. Feel free to look at the pages detailed below, or if you cannot find the information you are looking for, please fill in our enquiry form, and we will be on hand to help in any way we can.