Choosing The Gate That's Right For You

Choosing the right gate for your home will require knowledgeable consideration and choices on your part. To make the best choice, you will need to define and prioritize the main functions of your gate (i.e. security, ornamental, or a combination of both). You will need to know what designs you like and how you want to access the gate. Taking all of this into consideration will help you choose the gate that’s right for you. Let’s take a closer look at what is meant by each of these.

Function

The function, purpose, or reason for the gate is probably the most important aspect to consider as you choose the gate that's right for you. Do you need to provide safety or privacy by adding a small gate/door in an open walkway? You may want to opt for a simple manual-close gate or door, with or without a locking latch.

Would you like to limit access to your backyard but allow some vehicle access such as mowers, golf carts, or even automobiles? A double or wide gate may be your best option. Do you want the gate to self-close? This may be achieved with a spring or an automatic system.

Do you need a security gate at the entrance of your home? You may want to require that unannounced guests must request entry onto your property. In this case, you’ll have to decide if you want a key pad with a code to gain access or a remote control.

In addition, consider how you want the gate to open/close. Should it swing inwards towards your house or away from your house? Do you want a sliding gate that opens from the left or right, when viewing from outside the fence? The answers to these questions might be determined by your property. The terrain, slope, and property line may also affect the answers.

For example, if your gateway is too close to the road or sidewalk, a gate that swings outward might not be a viable option. Also, a slope, may limit which way the gate opens or closes naturally.

 

Design

Choose a gate design that matches your home and/or fence style. If you are a homeowner’s association member, make sure you check with them before you add a gate or fencing. They may have restrictions or limitations. Even if you do not belong to a homeowner's association, you will want to check with your community, city, and county of residence, since any of these may have restrictions.

Aluminum gates are popular because there are many styles, colors, and other options. This makes it easy to find a gate for your particular home/fence style and your needs. If you have a colonial style home, a good choice might be a wooden gate or a composite gate. For a modern home, a gate with simple lines and slats could be a good fit. For a large home, an aluminum or iron gate with a decorative top can make a grand or bold statement that matches your home.

You’ll want to put some thought into the color of the gate as well. Adding a little pop of color could be just the thing you need to increase that curb appeal. There’s the added benefit of adding a powder coating to your gate that will protect an aluminum or steel gate.

 

Access

How you get in and out of the gate is an important consideration. You can have manual access or opt for a motorized version. If you go with motorized then you’ll need to determine whether you want a keypad entry or remote control. If you go with a manual gate, you can have a key entry.

When choosing a motorized gate, you need to consider how you’re going to power it. You can run electricity to the gate, but this could require paying an electrician. There are also solar powered gates. This is eco-friendly and keeps additional professional-related costs to a minimum. Plus, if the power goes out, your solar powered gate should still work.

There are many things to consider when choosing the right gate for your home. Weighing all of these things will ensure that you get the gate that’s right for you.