Best Gates for Your Home: Ultimate Guide

If you’re looking to build the overall aesthetic and security of your home, a well-designed and functional gate can go a long way. With a lot of options to choose from, it is important to learn more about the different types of gates and their respective features before arriving at a decision as to what is the best gates for your home.

In this article, we’ll also touch on the characteristics, materials, and different operations methods available that can help you give a general overview of gate installation.

Common Types of Gates

Swing Gates

One of the most popular choices when looking for the best gates for your home is the classic swing gate works by having a pivot mechanism on its hinges. While it definitely has an elegant upside, one of its downsides is the considerable amount of space needed to execute this design. This type of gate & fence is usually available in a single or double-panel design and can be adjusted depending on your driveway size or layout.

Sliding Gates

If you’re renovating a rather limited space, this might be the ideal choice for you as this type of gate operates by sliding along a track parallel to the driveway or fence. The movement of this gate is powered by an automatic gate opener for extra convenience. It’s also much more secure considering the story construction and lack of leverage points in installing this gate.

Driveway Gates

This type of gate is usually found at the primary entrance of the property. Considering the dominant nature of this design as it affects both security and aesthetic appeal, feel free to learn more about the various designs, materials, and operating mechanisms. The great part about this is that it can be customized to fit your home’s style or design. The usual types of this gate include swing, sliding, and composite gates.

Materials: Aesthetics and Durability

A. Wrong Iron Gates

Known for its timeless beauty and durability, this material is known to execute intricate designs that are usually in the form of scrolls and ornate patterns. Wrought iron is also resistant to corrosion and weathering, which ensures that your gate will maintain its appearance and functionality in the long term. This is one of the best gates for your home to choose from.

B. Metal Gates

Made from steel or aluminum, this material provides strength and longevity but is much more affordable in terms of costs. Metal gates are usually lighter compared to wrought iron making it easier to install and operate. In terms of design, metal gates can be powder coated or painted to match your home’s design.

C. Composite Gates

This type of gate is crafted from a blend of materials such as wood and plastic, making it an attractive and low-maintenance option compared to other traditional gate materials. Aside from being affordable, these gates are also resistant to rot, insects, and weathering, which ensures longevity and performance for months. In terms of customization, it’s also available in a variety of colors and finishes, so feel free to match it with your home’s aesthetic.

Sliding or Swing

A surprising factor to consider aside from the design is definitely the opening and closing mechanisms as it can affect the space, design, and overall functionality of your gate. Here is a quick breakdown of the two most commonly used types.

1. Swing Gate

This type of movement requires a considerable amount of space to open and close, which makes this type more suitable for properties that are big or at least have a larger driveway than most. It can be manually operated or equipped with an automatic gate for extra convenience. However, swing gates are at risk of damage when it comes to strong winds or impacts so take those into account in terms of gate maintenance.

2. Sliding Gate

Ideal for properties with limited space or those situated on uneven terrain, this mechanism works by sliding along the track parallel to the driveway. While they can be used manually, these are often installed with an automatic gate opener for seamless and much more secure use. One downside however is that they may require more maintenance, especially on the track system or accumulated debris.

Best Gates for Your Home: Other Factors to Consider

Easy To Install

Some gates, especially those made from metal and composite options are much easier to install due to their lightweight nature and construction. These can make it much more affordable and quicker in terms of time needed to install.

Maintenance Requirements

The best gates for your home usually require regular maintenance to ensure longevity and optimal performance. Take note of whether your gates would require cleaning, lubricating, and checking for signs of wear and tear.

About All County Fence & Gates

Looking to build or upgrade your home’s security and aesthetics, when it comes to your gate needs All County Fence & Gates is one of the leaders in the industry. With our expert knowledge and tested experience, we’ll be able to turn your dreams into reality and get the best gates for your home. Contact us today and get a free quote.