Installing a gate for your driveway can improve your property’s security, appearance, and value. The most common driveway gates in Adelaide include swing and sliding gates. Both styles have unique benefits.
To help you choose the right driveway gate for your property, we’ll discuss the pros and cons of both, and five major considerations.
What are Swing Driveway Gates?
Swing driveway gates operate by swinging inwards or outwards like a traditional door. You can choose between single or double swing gates depending on the amount of space available, the width of your driveway, and design preferences.
Advantages of Swing Driveway Gates
Improved Appearance
Swing driveway gates are a common choice among property owners because of their classic look and visual appeal.
Low-Maintenance
These gates have a simple opening mechanism with limited components, making it easier to maintain.
Customisable Design
You can customise swing gates by choosing styles and materials that complement your property’s architecture.
Faster Install
Swing driveway gates are quicker to install than their sliding counterparts, since they don’t need a track system.
What are Sliding Driveway Gates?
Sliding driveway gates open horizontally, running on a track or a trackless cantilever system. They come in single and double gate options and need little clearance to open.
Advantages of Sliding Driveway Gates
Great For Spaces With Limited Space
Sliding gates are a space-efficient solution for properties with narrow driveways that don’t have enough clearance for a swing gate.
Smooth Operation
Thanks to an opening mechanism including tracks and rollers, sliding gates operate smoothly and quietly, reducing wear and tear with time.
Improved Security
Sliding driveway gates in Adelaide provide better security because they’re harder to open.
Highly Durable
Because they’re not installed on hinges, sliding gates can withstand harsh weather conditions without affecting functionality.
Considerations For Choosing a Driveway Gate in Adelaide
Available Space
Because of their mechanisms, swing and sliding driveway gates require different amounts of space. Sliding driveway gates don’t need clearance to operate, but they do need space for the gate sliding in. Meanwhile, swing driveway gates need clearance for swinging open, but can be installed on gate posts without space on either side.
Terrain Compatibility
Adelaide properties have varied terrain, and your property could be on a sloped block, or your driveway itself could be sloped. Professionals recommend installing a sliding driveway when you deal with uneven terrain. Swing driveway gates need a flat surface to work smoothly.
Security
Though both types of gates are secure and durable, sliding gates are harder to force open, making them more secure. They can also withstand windy conditions better than swing gates, which are affected by strong gusts.
Cost of the Gate
The cost of installing a swing or sliding driveway gate can impact your choice, especially if you have a limited time and/or budget. Property owners looking for a quicker installation and cheaper option usually choose a swing gate. Sliding gates have a more complex mechanism that includes rollers and a slide track, which adds to the expense.
Maintenance
The type of driveway gate you choose can determine how much maintenance it needs. If you prefer a low-maintenance option, experts recommend getting a swing gate. Sliding driveway gates need more maintenance since the tracks need to be cleared consistently to prevent jamming.
Swing driveway gates also require less long-term maintenance because of fewer parts in the opening mechanism. A simpler design means fewer chances of a breakdown and subsequent repairs or replacements.
Get Durable Driveway Gates in Adelaide by Steel Outfitters
To sum it up, swing and sliding driveway gates each have their fair share of advantages. Swing gates are low-maintenance, quickly installed, and look great. Sliding gates are suitable for sloped terrain, require less space to operate, with more durability. When deciding between swing and sliding driveway gates in Adelaide, consider your available space, budget, terrain, and how well you can maintain it.
The most important part of installing driveway gates in Adelaide is to hire a professional. At Steel Outfitters, we specialise in designing, fabricating, and installing a variety of driveway gates for residential and commercial properties. Get in touch with us to know more!
