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Having a fence installed calls for a number of important decisions, including the proper fence material and the type of gate needed to fit your application. Because your gate will be the most-used feature of your fence, it deserves careful consideration. Here are some key points to review before deciding on the best gate for your needs.

A Guide to Selecting the Right Gate for Your Fence

Assess Your Goals

Fences have different purposes, so assessing your needs and preferences will help inform your gate decision. Many homeowners have fences installed to keep their property and family members safe. If keeping trespassers out is your main priority, you’ll need a door with a lock that can’t be reached by potential intruders. 

Of course, beyond privacy, there are other reasons to install fences as well. Picket fences made of wood or other fence materials, for example, are an appealing way to define property boundaries. Wrought iron fences, too, are a popular choice for homeowners seeking a stately, refined look. Paddock fencing, on the other hand, can keep livestock contained. For these applications, sophisticated locking systems may not be warranted.

Consider the Function

Gates come in three main styles: swing, cantilever slide, and rolling slide. The first is the most common, and if you select this style, you’ll need to determine which direction you’d like the gate to swing: out or in. If you choose double-wide panels, you also have the option for both or just one to swing open.

Cantilever slide gates are ideal for fences positioned on a hill, where a swing gate might not be ideal. While they can be used with virtually any fence material, they are often paired with aluminum or chain link fences. These systems have a free-floating counterbalance system, which uses rollers and gate tracks to open and close. Rolling slide gates are similar, but their tracks are installed into the ground and are best for areas that don’t see snow or ice.  

Choose Your Look

privacy fenceYour gate doesn’t have to match your fence material precisely. For instance, a wooden privacy fence might have a wrought-iron gate to support security while acting as an attractive focal point. With a wooden livestock fence, you might have a metal gate installed for a bit of extra reinforcement. If you do choose to keep the same material, you might choose to add an ornate detail or embellishment to separate your gate from the rest of the fence.

 

If you’re seeking a fence contractor to help keep your property secure and protected, allow General Fence to help. Serving Elko County, NV, this team specializes in the installation and repair of chain-link, vinyl, and privacy fences, as well as custom gates. Learn more about their available fence materials and styles by visiting their website or call (775) 753-6077 to request a free estimate.

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