When it comes to securing your property with style and convenience, automated gates are the go-to choice. With a variety of options available, how do you decide between electric swing gates and electric sliding gates?
Sometimes, the physical requirements at your property won’t allow a choice. Nonetheless, the team at ifab is here to guide you through the decision-making process so that you achieve a solution that perfectly fits your needs and preferences.
Swing gates explained
Swing gates come in two varieties: single and double.
Single swing gates are the more budget-friendly option, requiring only one automatic opener and half the hardware (bolts, hinges, etc.) compared to double gates. However, there is a trade-off. Single gates demand as much space behind them as their width for swinging.
In contrast, electric double gates are space-efficient. A 12-foot single gate needs 12 feet of clearance behind it, while a 12-foot double gate only requires 6 feet.
If you are budget-conscious, single swing gates make sense. If you have the budget and want to save space while adding an aesthetic appeal, double swing gates are the way to go. The important points to note are:
- Electric swing gates are a timeless choice which adds a touch of elegance to your property. Their classic design mimics traditional hinged gates and creates a welcoming and prestigious entrance.
- These gates are perfect for properties with ample lateral space. They open inwards or outwards like a door, which means you need to ensure that you have the required space clearance for the gate to swing.
- If your driveway has a significant incline or uneven terrain, swing gates might not be the best choice. The terrain needs to be relatively level to allow for proper gate operation.
Swing gates dimensions
Both single and double swing gates can open either inward or outward, with the inward direction generally being the preferred choice. When opting for an inward-opening gate, it is crucial to factor in the space required for the gate to swing open, as well as additional space for potential objects, such as a car, behind the gate.
Consider the typical length of a car today, which is around 15 feet. If your driveway is 12 feet wide, a single swing gate will occupy the full 12-foot space when it swings open. With a 15-foot car parked behind it, you'll need a total of 27 feet of driveway space behind your gate, which can be quite snug.
(Note that different gate manufacturers may have width limits for the leaves or panels of swing gates. For example, ifab has a maximum single swing gate width of 9 feet.)
If you are contemplating an outward-opening gate, it is essential to be aware that most cities and towns have restrictions on this configuration. It is important to ensure that the gate does not obstruct any pavements crossing your property or open into the street.
Even if your local authority does not have such restrictions, consider the impact on your neighbours, as they might not be pleased with an outward-opening gate.
Sliding electric gates explained
Sliding gates are ideal for situations where swing gates cannot be accommodated due to limited space. They work beautifully for car parks or garages, maximising the available parking space. Sliding gates offer exceptional security, as once closed and locked onto a fixed post, they cannot be forced open. Unlike swing gates, they remain unaffected by wind.
While sliding gates are a perfect fit for smaller spaces, they are also an excellent choice for larger driveways, offering a wealth of advantages compared to their swinging counterparts.
- Electric sliding driveway gates are an ideal solution when space is limited. They move horizontally along the fence line, requiring minimal space.
- If your driveway is on an incline, sliding gates are often a better choice as they do not rely on level ground. They can smoothly operate even on hilly terrain.
- Both electric swing gates and sliding gates offer a range of customisation options. At ifab, we assist you in choosing the perfect design, materials, and additional features that align with your property's aesthetics and your security needs.
The cost of sliding gates
In a cost comparison between sliding gates and swing gates, sliding gates tend to require a higher investment for ownership and installation.
Even if both types of gates are crafted from the same quality materials and are of similar size, sliding gates typically come with a higher price tag. This is due to the complexity of sliding gates, which have more moving parts that require meticulous calibration during installation.
Additionally, conventional sliding gates often necessitate the installation of a dedicated track for the gate to follow, especially if one is not already in place. This additional feature contributes to the overall cost of sliding gates.
What to consider when choosing the right gate?
If you are not sure whether a sliding or a swinging gate is the right choice, the following considerations may help you.
1. Cost
The initial consideration revolves around the cost of the gate system. Your budget plays a vital role in determining the right gate for your needs. Generally, swinging gates tend to be more budget-friendly than sliding gates, making them a suitable choice for those on a tighter budget.
However, it is essential to note that sliding gates involve a more intricate mechanism for opening and closing, requiring additional components compared to their swinging counterparts. These extra components typically include the motor, slide tracks, and rollers.
In contrast, a swing gate relies on just a motor and a couple of hinges mounted to a wall or posts, which contributes to their lower cost.
2. Space
The location and available space for gate installation are of paramount importance. Swing gates necessitate more space between the gate and your vehicle, ensuring ample clearance during the gate's operation.
You must consider both the driveway's width and the space required in front and behind the gate's installation point. If space is limited, opting for a sliding gate becomes the more practical choice.
3. Maintenance
Maintenance is another significant factor to contemplate. Regardless of the gate type, routine maintenance is essential to keep it in optimal working condition. If minimal maintenance aligns with your preferences, swing gates are a suitable option due to their lower maintenance requirements.
On the other hand, sliding gates come with tracks that require regular clearing to prevent gate jamming and other track-related issues. In the long term, swing gates have the upper hand in maintenance, as they feature a simpler opening mechanism with fewer components, reducing the likelihood of parts breaking and necessitating professional replacement.
4. Safety
Finally, safety is a critical aspect to consider. Sliding gates operate in a linear back-and-forth manner, while swing gates may have more trapping points around their hinges, particularly when swinging back against a solid object or wall.
For swing gates, safety precautions such as safety beam photocells, safety pressure edges, and finger trap guards must be implemented to ensure a safe and secure operation.
Other unique gate styles
While we've covered some of the most popular gate types, there are indeed other innovative gate styles worth considering.
At ifab, we offer ingenious gate designs which operate with minimal space requirements. One of which is an automated gate that emerges from below the ground to serve as a secure barrier when closed, then seamlessly retracts below the surface to provide an open passage, maximising both functionality and aesthetics.
We also offer manual gates for gardens and driveways, if you would prefer a more traditional touch to your property.
For a closer look at the exceptional designs we offer and to hear what our satisfied customers have to say, we encourage you to watch our video testimonials, showcasing our commitment to innovation and customer satisfaction.
Enquire about our electric gates today
In most cases, our advice is not to go ahead with a final choice of the automated gate until you have a proper assessment or, at the very least, a conversation to guarantee that you are making the correct system selection.
If you are still in doubt about what type of electric gate is right for you, please get in touch with us today and we will be happy to provide you with our professional assistance and no-obligation advice.
With extensive experience installing a wide range of automatic gates throughout Scotland and its neighbouring regions. ifab is here to guide you in your home improvement journey.
