How to choose a gate for your home

Gates and formal entrances have become an essential feature of your property. But with so many variations in designs, colours , shapes and versatility, deciding what is right for your home is often challenging. Here are some of the designs out there, and what homes they best suit.

A aesthetically pleasing gate will help increase the value of your property. There are many types of driveway gates available to choose from with options from a lot of materials. Regardless of whether you are renovating or building a new house, you should invest in a proper gate. This is because a gate promises privacy and security, and can increase the overall value of your home. A lot of homeowners forget the prime purpose of the gate, while investing in it! This can result in bigger expenditures and unexpected changes in the long run. With this being said, here are few things you should keep in mind while choosing a gate for your home.

Types of gates 

External swinging gates

External swinging gates are built for an ascending walk or driveway, it is advised to use external swinging gates where the operation of an internal swinging gate will result in trapping the rim, or a short driveway where parking vehicles will obstruct the internal swing within the fence. If a property is a country estate or other large house, the easiest way to protect a driveway and prevent interfering with footpaths or vegetation on a house it is best to install exterior swinging gates.

Internal swinging gates

Internal swinging gates are the best option for properties with longer driveways or main thoroughfare exits, internal swinging gates are often advised when there is a footpath outside the boundary of the property. We advise that you should accurately estimate the area required for the driveway when installing this form of gate construction. Taking into account the parking and other operations carried out in the area, these would ascertain if an internal swinging gate is suitable for a house.

Scroll slider gates 

The top pick for properties where space is unavailable, the slider gate is a flexible device that can be created to accommodate any form of design. A slider gate ingresses behind a fence, and doesn't turn either outward or inward, leaving ample space for driveway or walkway access. These types of gates are the best alternative for an urban property or a remote one.

What to consider before you install a new gate?

Understand its Functionality

Functionality is one of the most important factors you should take into consideration. The mechanical functionality of the gate should be understood and exploited. Gates can be opened in three different ways. Before you handpick a gate, make sure its functional design suits your home. Do you want a gate that swings or rolls towards you? Do you want a gate that can be slid to your left or right? Do you want gates that have hinges on its edges? Every gate comes with a unique functionality that should be chosen, installed and used properly.

Style & Design

Style and design plays a very important role when you pick gates for your home. The overall style of your gate should match with your home’s design. It should enhance its outlook and feel. Before you decide on a style, make sure it doesn’t go against any restrictions in your neighborhood. The gate you pick must improve your home’s aesthesis and enhance its curb appeal. Over the years, aluminum has become a safe and sensible choice for homes. It can make your home look better and increase its overall value.

How Accessible is Your Gate?

Last but certainly not least, you should make sure the gate is accessible. This is a very simple factor that is taken into consideration by many. You should select from motorized and manual access gates. Gone are the days when people were fond of manual gates. Today, most homeowners prefer motorized gates that can be accessed with just a press of a button. These gates promise both style and convenience. Of course, you should be prepared to bear the extra charges and maintenance fees.

Types of materials for gates

There are many different types of materials that can be used to construct gates. The most common ones are timber, aluminium, steel and iron.

Timber

If you value your privacy then timber gates are the perfect way to obstruct the view of the property. Timber will obstruct the view of your home from your driveway gates and also help improve the view from the street to your landscaping and house. Timber is a good alternative because of its green and natural beauty.

Aluminum 

For new houses, aluminium is a decent option. Aluminum driveway gates appear to have sleek, straight lines and come in a range of powder-coated colours.

Steel

Steel gates are compact in appearance and strong. If they have one downside, they can easily corrode, until they are treated.

Iron 

Wrought iron gates can have traditional or modern styles, or you may tailor your gates to your needs. The only drawback is that they are heavy and may take longer to open and close.

Want a beautiful gate installed on your property? We provide three free no obligation quotes to suit all your gate needs. Find a local door/gate installer or a fencining contractor on Service.com.au. 

FAQs

Q: How will your gate allow you to access your home?

There are many ways such as manual access, electronic keycard, remote operated or even intercom access.

Q: How will your gate be powered?

The easiest way is to operate it by hand. However, when that is not an option, you can power your gates through electricity and solar.