A gate can be a great addition to your fence. Whether it is for your home or business, a gate can add additional privacy and security to your property. If you are thinking of installing a gate, there will be a few things to consider. One of those things is if you’d rather have a sliding gate or a swinging gate. Here’s how to know which one is right for you.
Swinging Gates
If you have smaller openings in your fence for foot traffic, you may already have swinging gates. On a small scale, they are extremely practical. For larger spans, like driveways, you’ll have the option to choose either a single swing or double swing gate.
Single Swing Gate
If you are on a tight budget or you only have a single car driveway, a single swing gate could be the best option for you. Because there is only one panel, less materials and less hardware are needed. Keep in mind how much space you will need for the gate to open and close freely.
Double Swing Gate
If you have a wider driveway opening you need to cover, then a double swing gate will be better for you than a single. Having two panels instead of just one means there will be a better distribution of weight. This means there will be less stress on the supporting posts. Double swing gates also have a more traditional look to them that is admired all around the world.
Swing Gate Considerations
When installing any kind of swinging gate, there are a few things you’ll need to keep in mind. One of those is the direction that they swing. You will want your gate to swing inward toward your property. Imagine a visitor has just pulled up to the entrance of your property off a busy road. If your gate swings outward, they would have to reverse back into the busy road in order for the gate to open properly. Outward swinging gates could also be hazardous to pedestrians walking by your property.
Another thing to consider is the area where you live. If you live in a windy area, a swinging gate might not be for you. The wind can turn your gate into a sail. Not only can this damage your gait or fence, but it could even harm you or your family.
Sliding Gates
If you don’t have the space for a swing gate, live in a windy area, or live on a steep slope, a sliding gate may be the option for you. Because there are more moving parts for a sliding gate, they can cost more than a swing gate, even if they are the same size and quality. Sliding gates can also look more sleek and modern, if that is the look you are going for.
Here at Clarksville Fencing, no matter what type of gate you want to install, we have the materials and the know-how to help you make the right decision for you and your property. We even offer the hardware necessary for maintenance and repair of your existing installation. Contact Clarksville Fencing today to learn more about our gates!
