Gate options for your home

The gates giving entry into your property need just as much consideration as your fences as they are part of your property's security as well as part of the decor. There are many options when it comes to gates so you shouldn't have any trouble finding the right gates for your home.

How to choose your gate?

The type of fences you have will have an impact on the style of gates you choose and most fencing manufacturers incorporate gates into their designs which make the decision a lot easier. Some popular styles of gates are:

• Farm and ranch style gates
• Entry gates
• Driveway gates
• Traditional and estate gates
• Motorised remote control gates

But gates are constructed from steel as well as wood and it's not uncommon to install gates of a different material from that of the fence. Brick and stone fences usually have steel gates but wooden gates look just as good with these materials.

Gate designs

Many rural properties are opting ranch style gates and estate gates which suit these larger properties very well. The styles are often very traditional and have a country flavour that appeals to the look of the surroundings.

Larger urban properties and gated communities also tend to opt for the more traditional estate style gates. They are a very stylish gate and are an excellent choice if planning a grand entry.

Motorised gates are becoming a very popular choice with many homeowners, especially for driveways and where security is important. These types of gates are remote controlled, although they can also be operated manually, and their design allows a choice in either gates that open in the usual fashion or the sliding type.

Remote controlled motorised gates eliminate the need for you to leave your vehicle to open and close your driveway gates so they are very convenient, especially in bad weather or at night.

For a decorative statement, you can't go past wrought iron. The range of styles with wrought iron gates means you can achieve the look you want very easily and this style of gate is very popular with older more traditional looking homes.