Entry driveway gates are the first part of the home that welcomes visitors. Primarily, its purpose is to protect against unauthorized people who may enter the property, but entry driveway gates also offer a statement that enhances curb appeal and increases home value.
Entrance gates today range from minimalistic to stylish. There are also high-tech gate designs for creating a grand entrance. Merging security and style comes easy if you know the basics of entry driveway gates.
The type of gate, its mechanism of opening, materials, privacy and access controls are a few measures to consider.
Things to Consider When Choosing Entry Driveway Gates
How appealing or minimalistic your driveway gate is comes down to personal preference. Not everything you see will work on your property. Here is our rough guide on the basic things you have to know before installing an entry driveway gate.
Type of Gates
Entry driveway gates for residential and business properties have two main types: sliding gates and swinging gates. The mechanism of their opening is not elected solely for aesthetic purposes.
Slide Gates
Slide gates are viable for uneven and steep terrain and tight driveways. As the name implies, sliding gates slide along the fence line to open. They do not require opening towards the street or into the property.
They utilize slide gate operator kits allowing the gate to slide through tracks and guides. Thus, opening and closing them is not a burden, regardless of their weight. However, slide gates have higher ground clearance.
This means that there is ample space for small animals to squeeze in. They need regular upkeep and maintenance to keep the track aligned in the railings. Otherwise, the gate can get compromised and pose a safety hazard for the home.
Swing Gates
Swing gates are the type of gates that open inward and outward of the property. It is ideal if you have the space to accommodate the gate’s leaves. They are budget-friendly, require less maintenance and are safe if you have little children since they are heavy to open. Wheels may be integrated into a swing gate but are not the best for a rocky, uneven driveway.
If you opt for a swing gate, contemplate how it will open: inwards, outwards, or both. A swing entrance gate is dramatic and more welcoming when it opens indoors. It is also safer to avoid obstructing traffic, especially if your driveway is close to the road.
However, the side it opens to is conditional to the terrain since some terrains do not permit opening it inwards. If you have a tight and narrow driveway, it may not accommodate the gate, and your choice is to swing it outwards.
Vertical Lift Gates
In cases where a swing or slide gate is impossible to accommodate, a vertical lift gate is a more functional option. These types of gates operate using a hydraulic system like the HySecurity Hydralift Vertical Lift Operator to move the gate upward or downward.
Vertical lift gates are a space saver but also have drawbacks. Apart from being expensive and its complex installation, any case of malfunction can be extremely dangerous. Vertical entry driveway gates are often made of chain links, steel frames or aluminum. These heavy materials can crush a person or vehicle if it crashes.
Gate Materials
The building material used in entry driveway gates determines its durability, strength and aesthetic appeal. The wood gate is popular for country homes, but metals are more practical for many custom driveway gates. Steel, wrought iron, and aluminium make the perfect gate materials granting their long-lasting sturdiness.
Wood Gates
Wooden gates are beautiful and are a perfect fit for rustic homes. They can be stained to subtly blend in a natural environment. They deteriorate over time, but wood gates are also sturdy enough to resist weather changes. When it comes to deflecting strong winds, wood gates rarely burst open and have a little risk of being blown away.
Metal Gates
A custom entry gate made of metal is undeniably durable. They are not prone to cracks and dents except for the aluminium gates that get dented under extreme pressure. If you want a custom gate, metal gates are versatile for custom designs with visual appeal.
The problem with metals is their sensitivity to temperature and elements. When not treated properly, the gate material will develop rust, become brittle and corrode. Depending on the metal type, fabrication and gate installation, they can also get expensive. Metal driveway gates can be classified as:
- Steel gates
- Iron gates
- Wrought iron gates
- Aluminium driveway gate
Automation
Technological advancements in the home security gate system are made possible through gate automation. Many homeowners elect the convenience of an electric gate that uses automatic gate operators and entry access controllers. It adds a striking appeal and wow factor to entryways and is designed with safety and convenience in mind.
An automatic driveway gate provides an added layer of security and makes it handy for users to operate. An automatic gate will not require you to get out of the vehicle to work the gate.
Instead, you can use electronic operators with stored commands in an access control system or control panels. It has access credentials like key cards, fobs, remote devices or apps that send a signal to unlock the gate.
Some automatic driveways employ a telephone entry system that requires audio answering to operate the gate. Gates fitted with security cameras are useful in monitoring traffic and visitors.
After knowing the basics of a driveway gate, your next question is probably where to buy streamlined materials. For all sorts of door and gate needs, look no further than All Security Equipment.
All Security Equipment carries a wide range of reputable brands of door and gate products. From gate hardware and gate operator kits to intricate access controllers and devices, we have them here.
Our state-of-the-art materials are backed with a warranty and are provided with excellent customer service. We also guarantee high-quality equipment for the most reasonable price, so you don’t need to look elsewhere.
