Whether you want more privacy or security, or simply to enhance the appearance of your home, there is a lot to think about when you are choosing a gate for your property.
- What is the purpose of the gate?
Gates are often intended as attractive features for your property, but the reason for having a gate is usually for security and they therefore need to provide vehicle and/or pedestrian access to your property. Many houses have a small gate for people to walk through and a larger gate for cars.
When you are considering gates for your fencing, you need to work out how many gates you will need and the required size of the gate openings. Consider what you need to fit through each gate: People, cars, caravans, boats, a ride-on mower, for example.
- Which way do I want the gate to open?
A gate either needs to swing in towards or property, or outwards towards the road, or it needs to slide sideways. Which option you choose depends partly on your property.
Swing gates require a fair amount of space, whether inside your property or alongside the road. They do not work on an upward slope, but can accommodate uneven ground. Depending on your property, you may choose double or single swing gates, or bi-fold gates if your yard lacks the space for a traditional swing gate. You could also opt for a sliding gate which requires less space inside or outside, but does need space alongside the fence to open.
- What style of gate do I want?
Many people choose a gate that matches the style of their home so that it adds to the appearance of their property. It also needs to match the type of fence that you choose. Factors to consider include whether your house and garden are modern, or more of a country or old-fashioned style.
The type of gate also affects the maintenance that will be required. Some need more regular repainting, while others seldom require maintenance, and some materials will last longer than others.
Options can include tubular steel and aluminium, Colourbond and stainless steel, perforated, slate picket and aluminium woodgrain slats gates. You can also choose a particular painted finish to enhance the appearance even more.
- What type of access do you want?
The simplest way to access your property is manually, but it can be inconvenient to have to get out of your vehicle every time you go in and out of your home.
For security you may need to have a padlock with a key or code to access your gate if you have manual access. This means that you need to help guests to access your property, opening the gate for them when they visit, which can be inconvenient.
Using a code or swipe card to access your home or other building is more convenient than manual access. However, you may still need to provide visitors with the code or share cards, or simply allow them access when they visit.
Access by remote control is useful for a gate to your home because you can open the gate as you are approaching your property. When you have guests you may also be able to open the gate for them without having to physically go to the gate.
Intercoms enhance access and provided added security.
- How will my gates be powered?
Electric gates can be powered by running electric cables from your home to the end of your driveway. Another option is to use solar power, which can be effective especially if you have a long driveway.
If you are considering options for gates at your property, or even your business, contact Perth fencing and gate experts, Secure-A-Fence, who can help you to choose the most suitable gate for your needs. Visit their website for more information or contact them on 08 9377 1917 for a friendly chat about the gate that you want for your property.
