If you’re interested in installing a new driveway gate on your property, there are several things to consider. For starters, you need to consider whether a sliding gate or swinging gate is right for your needs.
In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the differences between single swing driveway gates and automatic sliding driveway gates as well as the benefits of installing a gate.
Let’s get started.
Single Swing Driveway Gates
One of the biggest differences between sliding gates and swinging gates involves the way in which the gate opens and closes.
While a sliding gate slides along a track during operation, a swinging gate opens and closes using an outward or inward swinging motion. Swing gates are available in either single or double swing configuration, which describes how many parts of the gate actually move during operation.
A single swing driveway gate will involve one solid piece that swings open and closed during operation, while double swing gates involve two gates that form the whole. In most cases, a double gate is divided at the center.
Swing gates are ideal for driveways that don’t have space on either side to allow the gate to slide open. In most cases, these gates will warn vehicles to stop at a distance to allow the gate to swing open.
Enhanced Security
When you get a gate installed on your property, you’re adding another layer of protection to your home.
For anyone to get onto your property, they need to get through the gate before they can even approach your home. Having that gate gives you all kinds of opportunities to improve security and make your home safe.
Firstly, just by having the gate you’re going to be more secure. The most basic gates will be able to be locked, either by a special mechanism built into the gate or just by a simple padlock. Having that extra lock makes all the difference when it comes to your home’s security.
You’ll also have the option to add extras onto your gate. For example, you can add a remote opening device, that responds when your car is in range and opens automatically. This will only allow cars you’ve approved to come onto your driveway. You could also add a keypad opener, so only those who know the code may be able to enter.
Another option is a camera and intercom system. These are already becoming more popular, as home internet allows you to set up a camera system quite easily. Having it at your gate instead of your front door allows you to keep unwanted guests at a distance, letting you see who they are before they’re allowed onto your property.
It’s amazing how much a gate allows you to secure your home. It’s a good idea to pair a gate with remote openers or camera systems to give you the ultimate peace of mind.
Keeping Children And Pets Safe
As the weather is getting warmer, you’re bound to be spending more time outdoors. If you have children or pets, then they’ll be out in the yard with you. As hard as you try, you’ll find that it’s difficult to keep an eye on them at all times. How many times have you turned your back for a moment, only to find that they’ve got into trouble?
When this is the case, it’s hard to relax outdoors as you’re trying to watch your children and pets. There’s always the possibility that they could make their way to the end of the driveway, out of your sight. This is dangerous, and you want to stop it from happening.
The easiest way is to add a gate to the driveway, so you can ensure that they can’t get out. For pets, you’ll need a gate that reaches low to the ground, to stop them from climbing under it. For children, a gate with a lock that they aren’t able to undo is the best option here. It’s simple but easy, and you can let the children and pets play outdoors without worrying about them getting off the property and onto the road.
Green Options For Your Gate
As a homeowner, you’re trying your best to reduce your impact on the planet. You can keep plastics out of landfills by creating eco-bricks, and insulate your home to keep energy in, rather than wasting it, but how do you reduce your power usage?
If you install a gate opener on your single swing gate, then you can opt for a solar-powered option. These mechanisms power your gate opener with the power of the sun, rather than using your existing electric setup. That way, you’re reducing your power usage quite easily.
There are other benefits to using solar-powered openers, too. Firstly, you won’t need to dig up your driveway to install power cables to your gate. That cuts down drastically on the mess, time, and costs. Also, you don’t have to have the solar panel right next to the gate, if you don’t want it there. You can move it to an unobtrusive spot, or somewhere that gets more light, in order to get the most from it.
The Best Gate Option For You
A single swing gate is perfect for most homes. As the name implies, you’ll swing the gate open on a single set of hinges, much like a door. They’re perfect for driveways where you have a lot of space for the gate to open, and for your car to sit behind as you wait for it to open.
If your driveway is a little shorter, then a double swing gate will be the best option for you. These gates open up in the middle and swing outwards. As it opens this way, you won’t need as much room for them to open. They’re also a good option for a larger driveway opening.
Then there’s the sliding driveway gate. These gates, rather than swinging out, slide across to open up the driveway. They usually slide across your fencing, meaning they need very little room to operate. If space is at a premium, then you can use these gates to keep your driveway secure.
If you’re not sure which gate option is right for you, consider contacting a driveway gate installation professional for assistance.
Picking The Right Gate
Every home is different, so every home will need a different gate set up. Will a single swing gate with a padlock work for you? Would you rather a sliding gate with a camera set up make you feel more secure? It is very much up to you. Whatever you decide, your gate will come in a huge array of sizes and styles. Pick the one that works best for you.
There’s a lot to think about when you’re picking out a single swing gate. Find a setup that works for you and your family. Keep everything safe and secure, and you’ll find that the gate brings you a lot of peace of mind, every day.