A Sliding or Swinging Driveway Gate: Which One Is Right for Your Property?

Driveway gates are the finishing touch on fences that can add more security to your property. You might choose to add a gate to your driveway to keep pets and children inside the property line. Many people also add security features such as locks to their gates to ensure only invited guests can come close to their houses. When you pick out a gate, you’ll have the choice of choosing one that swings or slides. The right choice for you is a personal decision you can arrive at by examining the following factors.

Explore the Cost Differences

Swinging gates are usually the more cost-effective option due to their simpler construction. Sliding gates require additional components and time for installation, which can increase the cost. Naturally, an automatic gate will cost more compared to one that requires you to move it manually. When you make your choice, you can work with your fencing contractor to identify how much each option costs based on your preferences to ensure you pick the type that fits your budget.

Consider Space Restrictions

You may also need to consider how much space you have in your driveway. Sliding gates may require extra space along the fence line, but they typically don’t require much additional space in front of them. Swinging gates, however, need enough space to move outward or inward. While most driveways have space for the gates, you may need a sliding one if your property has a narrow driving path. Sliding gates may also be the better option for people who park in their driveways or have multiple cars.

Think about Your Maintenance Preferences

A swinging gate’s simpler construction also means it will require less maintenance over time. A sliding gate may fail to slide into place if the tracks become clogged with debris or develop dents after being hit. Sometimes, poorly installed sliding gates will develop issues faster than ones that swing open. Making sure an experienced contractor handles the gate installation helps you feel safer with either choice, but this is especially important with sliding models.

Take Your Environment into Consideration

Swinging gates naturally have a tendency to move more with the wind. On extremely windy days, you may find it hard to control a manual gate that gets pushed by a sudden gust. Sliding gates aren’t at the mercy of the wind, which gives them more structural stability. With strong iron gates, Santee residents have more control over how the components move. But you might be better off choosing a sliding gate when you own property that tends to be in the direct line of the wind.

Compare the Overall Aesthetics

Swinging gates come in single and double styles, and some people love how they create a welcoming aesthetic when someone arrives at the property. Meanwhile, sliding gates have a more modern aesthetic that might suit your property better. Both types of fences may also have options for enhancing the appearance with decorative features such as finials and monograms, which could influence your final choice.

When you’re ready to install a driveway gate, call on the pros from Fred’s Fencing, a premier provider of custom gates and iron fencing. Santee residents can rely on our 50 years of experience in crafting residential entrance driveway gates, sliding gates, and sliding roll gates that are suitable for industrial, commercial, and high-security fence needs. We also provide comprehensive solutions by combining swing or slide gates with automatic gate openers and access control systems. To find out how we can work with you to ensure you get the exceptional gate you’re looking for, give one of our friendly team members a call today.

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