A fence. It’s not really done, is it, until it has a gate that works just right. Picking that perfect gate, though? It can feel like you’re suddenly swimming in choices. Wood, vinyl, metal… single swing, double swing… it can make your head spin! This article is all about taking that overwhelm away. We’ll explore different gate types, what they’re good for, and most importantly, the questions you need to be asking a fence contractor before you hand over a single dollar.
Before the Style: What Do You Really Need From a Gate?
Hold on a second before you start browsing Pinterest for that dreamy gate design. Let’s get real about what you need. Think about it. Is this gate going to be a statement piece? A fortress against the neighborhood? A way to keep the kids safe near the pool? Or just a way to stop Fido from making unscheduled visits to the neighbor’s prize-winning roses? Ask yourself these questions:
Is it just for people walking through, or will you need to get a lawnmower, wheelbarrow, or even a car through it?
Where’s it going? Right on the property line? Next to the house? This impacts swing direction, space needed, everything!
What’s your “ouch!” point? How much are you really willing to spend? Remember, a fancy wrought iron gate will be a lot more than a simple chain link.
And, the boring but important stuff: Does your town or HOA have any rules about gate height, materials, or even style? Do your homework before you fall in love with something you can’t have.
Gate Material Mania: Wood, Vinyl, Metal, and More!
Okay, now we can talk materials. One of our gate and fence suppliers are Everguard Materials. Your choice here will influence the look, how much work you’ll have to put in to keep it looking good, and how long it will last. Here’s a quick rundown:
Wood Gates: Oh, the classic. Nothing beats the natural charm of a wood gate. You can stain it, paint it, make it match your house… the possibilities are endless. Cedar and redwood are great choices because they naturally resist rot. Pressure-treated pine is budget-friendly, but needs extra protection. The big catch? Wood needs love! Staining, sealing, and dealing with the occasional splinter are part of the deal. Think: “rustic charm meets a little elbow grease.”
Vinyl Gates: Want something that basically takes care of itself? Vinyl is your friend. It won’t rot, warp, or fade, and comes in tons of colors and styles. It’s perfect if you want that “white picket fence” look without the yearly paint job. The downside? It might not have the same “soul” as real wood.
Aluminum Gates: Light as a feather, strong as an… well, not steel, but still pretty strong! Aluminum is rust-proof, so it’s a great choice for humid climates or near a pool. It often has a sleek, modern vibe.
Wrought Iron Gates: If you want to make a statement, wrought iron is the way to go. These gates are seriously tough, incredibly beautiful, and can be custom-made to your exact specifications. Be prepared to pay a premium, though. This is definitely the “luxury” option.
Chain Link Gates: Let’s be honest, chain link isn’t winning any beauty contests. But it’s cheap, effective, and does the job, especially if you just need to keep the dog in.
Gate Styles: Swingin’, Slidin’, and All Around
Single Swing Gate: The most common kind. One gate swings open. Simple, effective.
Double Swing Gate: Think big! Two gates that swing open, usually for driveways or wide openings.
Sliding Gate: Got a narrow space? A sliding gate glides along a track, saving room.
Arched Gate: Just what it sounds like. Adds a touch of fairytale charm to your yard.
“Contractor, I Have Questions!” The Must-Ask List
Before you hire anyone, make sure they can answer these questions clearly and confidently:
“Are you licensed and insured?” (Seriously, CHECK this. Don’t just take their word for it).
“Have you put in gates like this before? Can I see some examples of your work?”
“What kind of stuff are you using? Hinges, latches, posts… are they good quality?” (Cheap hardware will fail FAST).
“How are you setting the posts? They gotta be solid!”
“How will you make sure the gate doesn’t sag and actually latches?”
“What’s your warranty? On both your work AND the materials?”
“How long will this take?”
“Can I see a written estimate… with EVERYTHING listed?”
“Are you pulling permits?”
“How will you not trash my yard while you’re working?”
“What kind of latch is best for keeping kids in, or keeping the dog from escaping?”
“If something goes wrong later, do you do repairs?”
The Final Touches: Taking it to the Next Level
Want to make your gate extra special? Think about these:
Automatic Gate Opener: Click a button, and the gate opens! Pure luxury.
Access Control: Keypads, remotes, intercoms… keep unwanted visitors out.
Fancy Details: Post caps, finials, decorative panels… make it yours.
Your Dream Gate Awaits!
Choosing a fence gate is a mix of practicalities and personal style. By thinking through your needs, exploring your options, and asking the right questions, you’ll end up with a gate that looks great, works perfectly, and makes your property feel complete. Happy gate-hunting!
Article written by Alien Fence, LLC. Call Ivan for a free onsite estimate at (206) 474-9147.