Adding an automatic gate to your home driveway will make leaving and arriving home from work a more convenient experience. And automatic gates add a measure of security to a residential property. But one area that homeowners sometimes get wrong is the method of opening. Should you choose a swinging gate or a sliding gate for your property?

To ensure you make the right choice for your driveway, look at the following factors before you make a decision.

Consider space availability

Swinging gates require more space to open. This is important if you have little space around the opening of your driveway. For instance, trees and shrubs can impede swinging gates, as can ornamental features. If space is limited, sliding gates are a more convenient option than swinging gates.

Consider the weather in your area

Windy weather can have a big impact on a swinging gate's lifespan. While sliding gates rest on rollers on the ground, swinging gates have to support their own weight. While sliding gates will suffer little in windy weather, swinging gates will have to struggle against the wind on windy days. As a result, if you live in a windy area, sliding gates will suffer less.  

Consider the land gradient

For some driveways, the gradient of the land might prevent you from even opening swinging driveway gates. Sliding gates won't have a problem opening on sloped land since they rest on rollers and open sideways anyway.

Consider the maintenance involved

In general, you'll probably need to spend more time maintaining a sliding driveway gate than you will a swinging gate. This is because of the rollers that sliding gates need to move sideways. Dust and debris builds up around the rollers, especially if you live in a dusty area. This can affect the speed at which the gates open, and subsequently put stress on the gate motor.

If you opt for a sliding gate, you'll need to buy a good brush and brush away the debris on your gate's rollers from day to day. A swinging gate will require less maintenance.

Consider the noise each gate makes

If you live in a very quiet residential area, sliding gates might make too much noise for your neighbours. This is especially true if you don't brush away debris from the rollers and keep them well oiled. A swinging gate may be better if peace is a priority of yours.

Contact a company that offers residential gate automation services to learn more.

Share