Different Types Of Driveway Gates Worth Considering

Driveway gates not only add architectural splendor to your property and frame your home, but they also take protection to the next level. Available in many different materials ranging from traditional iron to wood, driveway gates can enhance a historical property or even modernize a family estate. For those on a tight budget, wood driveway gates offer affordability and usability.

What Kinds Of Driveway Gates Can I Consider?

Wood is a popular choice for driveway gates where a property needs a rustic or cozy vibe. Additionally, they feature closed panels in many instances that can offer additional privacy. For those seeking the most affordable option, a gate with a simple hook latch reminiscent of farm gateways are ideal.

Additionally, closed gates are easily found in many designs, sizes, and construction materials if homeowners wish to enhance their space with a bit more privacy.

The longest lasting option and the sturdiest by far are traditional cast iron gates. They are not only decorative, but when painted black, they offer an imposing entrance to a property. Most will opt for cast iron gateways when renovating historic properties and stately homes.

Another great feature of opting for cast iron gateways is they easily complement existing gate posts, whether made from brick or stone. It’s also easy to add railings to delineate the boundary of your property as the railings can hang off of the existing piers.

Gateways made from cast iron are easily found prefabricated in standard sizes, or they are manufactured to meet the specifications of the homeowner. Readily available options are significantly more affordable than custom options as the price of customization can nearly double upfront costs.

When selecting the perfect iron gateways, it’s crucial to match the facade of your house. Search driveway gates near me and find the perfect gates to suit your property. Whether Victorian or Art Nouveau in design, it’s important to respect the history of the property. However, if your home is a fairly new build, you can add a sense of character and history by selecting an old-fashioned gateway. On the other hand, the reverse isn’t true when it comes to older homes. Never make the mistake of choosing modern gateways for a historic home as it can confuse guests and make them critical of the interior of your property by not setting proper expectations.

Should I Purchase New Gates Or Reclaimed?

Though reclaimed gateways are appealing to some, purchasing new ones is always the best course of action. Not only are new gates easier to install, but they don’t have visible damage or exterior flaws that may need remediation. Though rust is easily sanded off and the finish repainted, it doesn’t mean that the process of installation won’t pose its own set of special challenges. Additionally, reclaimed gates may require the use of specialty bolts or hardware that aren’t readily available or hard to find on a budget. Sometimes, these kinds of hardware are no longer manufactured or available, therefore, you run the risk of being stuck with gateways that perhaps are impossible to install as they are. On the other hand, new options will always have the hardware available and professionals can help you with installation.

Is A Pedestrian Gate Necessary?

Though not entirely necessary, it’s certainly helpful to pair a driveway gate with a pedestrian gate. It’s much easier to exit your property on foot using a pedestrian gate versus having to go through the motions of automatically opening a large driveway gate. If your gate isn’t automated, all the more reason to have a pedestrian gate installed. After all, take into consideration what a chore it is to manually have to open and close a heavy gateway each time you must exit your premises.

Is It Worth Automating Gateways Or Not?

Most gateway options are easily automated when the right technology and hardware is installed. Though the mechanism itself is readily available and easily purchased by homeowners, it’s something that requires professional installation. With a DIY approach, homeowners run the risk of not installing the gateway properly or causing the mechanism to malfunction.