How to Select an Automatic Driveway Gate?

There are several key features to consider in order to select the right automated driveway gates in Austin for your property:

1. Material

Gates constructed of wrought iron or powder-coated steel are the most durable, although aluminum is less expensive, rust-resistant and lightweight. Wood gates are high maintenance, subject to warping and cracking.

2. Design

There are three common gate designs:

(a) The flat top driveway gate is the simplest, with a straight upper horizontal rail
(b) An arched top driveway gate features a bend that creates an upsweeping arch.
(c) The arched top with finials driveway gate has picket tops extending past the upper rail, each fitted with a decorative finial.

In order to create a unique, one-of-a-kind gate, a local carpenter or metal fabricator can custom-build a driveway gate.

3. Size

Measure your driveway and property to choose the correct size. Ready-to-install single driveway gates are 4 ft. to 6 ft. tall, in various lengths to accommodate the driveway width. Narrow driveways require a single gate while dual gates in 12, 14 or 16 ft. lengths accommodate wider driveways but require two electric openers.

4. Swinging or Sliding Opening Action

Most residential driveway gates swing open, requiring less space than sliding gates.
Most driveway gates swing inward, toward the house and away from the driver pulling into the driveway.

An in-swinging gate is perfect for driveways that are relatively level or downward sloping. Driveways sloping toward the house require gates swinging away from the house and toward the roadway.

Gates must be positioned far enough up the driveway surface so that delivery trucks can pull up without blocking the roadway or sidewalk.

Call Capitol Fence for a quote on your new residential driveway gate in Austin, Texas today at (512) 990-2530.