We are demolishing our older house and building a new modern house. Our old fence won't look that good with a modern house, so we are searching for a sleek, modern fence to complement the new house. It's quite fun to shop for the new house and see how the different fence styles might look with the new house. This blog has some inspiration for other home owners looking to get a new fence installed. We have a range of materials, styles and fencing techniques on display on this blog. I hope you will find it useful when looking for a new fence.
When thinking of the best type of gates that will complete your new fencing project, automated gates are a no brainer. These gates are safe, durable and convenient to use. The added automation functions also make it easier for you to open or close the gate from a remote location.
There are two main ways through which automatic gates operate: via a swinging or sliding mechanism. Swinging gates are the more common option across homes and businesses. These gates are anchored on hinges that swing both sides open and closed. On the other hand, sliding gates glide across a set of tracks that are placed on the bottom surface. This newer design is stylish, convenient and flexible. But which opening mechanism is better for your home?
Advantages of swinging gates
Swinging gates are the tried and true design of many types of gates. They're cost-effective to install, and the process takes much less time than the installation of sliding gates. This is because all you need is a frame, a set of hinges and the gate itself. And if you need to make upgrades to the opening mechanism, you can simply install a different type of automatic gate opener.
Repairing and maintaining swing gates is also less of a headache. The most common issues you're likely to experience include broken hinges or damages to the gate itself as it swings open and closed.
The primary disadvantage with swing gates is that they pose more of a risk than sliding gates. The outward motion of these gates can potentially injure people or property if sufficient clearance isn't obtained.
Advantages of sliding gates
Sliding gates are the newer and more stylish option in the market. Each gate slides on tracks (installed on the road surface), making the opening mechanism easy and convenient. These gates also look more attractive during their opening and closing mechanism. Because sliding gates don't take up any outward space, the only clearance needed is on the sides of the fence.
Sliding gates also have a controlled opening mechanism and can't easily be pried open as swinging gates can. Strong winds also don't easily sway these gates, as they aren't anchored on flexible hinges. Sliding gates can even open upwards (similar to garage doors) as long as the tracks and ceiling system are in place.
The downside with sliding gates is that they cost more to install and maintain. The tracks need to be regularly inspected for blockages or physical deformities.
Share22 April 2019
