Your home’s main gate (or driveway gate) plays a crucial role in ensuring your home is safe and secure. It is your property’s first point of contact, hence more than just a barrier to keep strangers out. That said, you might want to take your time when shopping for one.
Unknown to many, your choice of driveway gate will show the kind of a person you are, your taste, and your character. A number of factors thus should be considered when shopping for one. The ideal gate will create a seamless connection with not only the property but the surroundings as well.
Aside from aesthetic appeal, there are several other factors you should consider before making the ultimate choice for a Liverpool driveway gate. Some of the critical factors to consider include the following;
6 Important Factors To Consider When Shopping For A Driveway Gate
1. Main Material and Maintenance
Most gates are made from wrought iron, steel, or timber. Each of these materials requires proper maintenance to keep the gate in its top condition and reduce the wear and tear rate. Steel and wrought iron are most vulnerable to rusting, even worse if you live in the coastal regions.
The only way to prevent/reduce rusting is to ensure the entire gate is painted. Repainting the gate helps protect the ferrous material from elements that cause rusting, e.g., moisture, salt, and oxygen.
Timber gates require lots of maintenance to keep them in a sound state. Wood, like any other organic material, is vulnerable to pest damage (termites) and rotting. It thus is the least durable material of the materials mentioned above. Nonetheless, those living in favourable conditions, such as mild weather and few pests, can take full advantage of wooden gates.
2. Automated (Electronic) Or Manually Controlled
Automatic gates are the preferred option today. One of the reasons for this is that automated gates can be controlled with a touch of a button. If there’s a significant distance between the driveway gate and your home, an automated gate is what you want.
The same applies if you live in regions that experience bad weather, hold parties often, and, more importantly, when there’s an emergency. It is, however worth noting that electronically controlled/operated gates are more expensive than manual ones. One of the perks of going for a manual gate is the cost savings. You can use the cost savings to order a customised gate based on a preferred look and design.
3. Sliding Or Swing Gates
You can choose between sliding and swinging gates depending on available space and driveway gradient. A sliding gate is most preferred where there’s limited space or a slopping driveway. A swing gate is best for flat surfaces and requires a bit more space to open and close.
4. Privacy and Security
If security is your primary concern, you might then want to lean more on timber and steel gates. These are considerably more robust and stronger than wrought iron or even aluminium. For privacy, consider tall gates with little to no openings. If you are looking for style, aluminium, and wrought iron gates will be most suitable.
5. Color and Style
As mentioned before, you might want to consider your home’s exterior and surroundings when shopping for a gate, especially the design, and colour. Experts recommend gateway gates that complement the style of your home. Steel and timber gates are a preferred and recommended option for modern homes, while picket fences and gates go well with a craftsman-style house.
6. Safety
Safety is an essential factor to consider before deciding on your choice of gate. This is especially important if there are pets and children around. A solid gate is considerably safer for homesteads with young kids and pets. Factor in emergencies as well. A remote-controlled or automated gate is much safer in emergencies, as it can be operated at the touch of a button to allow emergency vehicles through.
