To gate or not to gate, that is the question!
Gates not only add security to your property, but they can also offer safety, aesthetics, and prestige. If you have a driveway that people tend to use as a turnaround, think about adding gates. Gates are also effective in keeping pets and young children from getting out into the street (obviously if your property isn’t fenced then gates will be only partially effective). Gates can increase your property value as well.
The Hope Ranch design standards call for new gates to have transparency. The rule of thumb is about 50% of your entrance gate should be open. Service gates can be solid. Check the design standards on the Ranch’s website for exact details.
Our fencing and gate contractor is Cheri Enticknap of Allco Fence Industries. We have worked with Cheri for over 38 years – if you can believe that! Allco has designed and installed many gates in Hope Ranch and throughout Santa Barbara County. Cheri has a real passion for her profession, and it shows. She can help you design, and value engineer your gate, right down to the thickness of the metal!
There are many things to consider before selecting an automatic gate system; what type of operating mechanism do you prefer – a swing gate or a slide gate (the two most popular options); is your property best situated for a bi-folding, cantilever, or vertical lift gate?
The top three things to consider:
1. Cost
For those on a budget, the design and type of gate will play a big factor in cost. A swing gate is generally the least expensive option. However, if your driveway slopes you may need a sliding gate which requires a motor, concrete v-track, and rollers, and is typically more costly than a swing gate (which just requires a motor and a couple of hinges mounted to a post or wall). Another cost consideration is the placement of the motors. Motors can be placed above ground where you see them or they can be placed in the ground in a metal box (yes, that would be the more expensive option). Also, don’t forget that for security it is best to locate the motors inside your gates.
2. Space
Before installation, keep in mind the amount of space you are working with. If space is limited or your driveway is steeply sloped, a swing gate may not be a great option, since the gate will need enough room to completely open before hitting the driveway surface, and setbacks from the street are required for the fire department. The better option may be one large sliding gate if space allows. If there’s not enough room for that, perhaps a pair of sliding gates that meet in the middle would work (this would require double motors – one for each gate).
3. Maintenance
Different gate materials require different levels of care. Galvanized steel doesn’t need extra protection, but a nice powder-coated surface adds color and increases the lifespan of the steel. Wooden gates, on the other hand, require more attention and upkeep. At a minimum, you can expect yearly maintenance and stain to prevent wood decay. Black painted wrought iron needs care as rust can begin to appear over time.
Swing gates are lower maintenance and greasing of the hinges is all that is needed. Sliding gates will require v-track cleaning regularly as small debris will collect and can cause issues with operation. You will also need to lube the chain on a regular basis. For both operating systems, quarterly or yearly maintenance should be done by a qualified gate technician to ensure all safety devices are working properly and mechanical systems are free from wear.
4. Aesthetics
As they say, a picture paints a thousand words so I have kept the article short so we have more room for gate photos!
A special thanks to Cheri for her help with this article. For more information on gates, repairs, and/or fencing, Cheri can be reached at 805-430-8333 or cheri@allcofence.com.
