When I do own a larger property, I think that I will certainly be installing driveway gates at the grand entrance. Not so much to keep people out, but because I think having gates at the entrance of a long driveway looks so great. Of course the added security would certainly be a bonus that I would be happy to get in the package!
Installing driveway gate is honestly nothing I would ever attempt on my own. It is a project best taken on by professional installers who have extensive knowledge in the requirements for each individual installation, as well as experience to know what pitfalls to watch out for on a property.
I began reading about driveway gates just out of curiosity. I also contacted some local installers (there were not many in my area) to ask questions about what types of things must be considered when taking on what appears to be a rather intimidating home project. The first thing that struck me was the number of questions involved regarding the specific type of gate being considered. There are different types of gates designed for different purposes.
Most gates certainly have both an ornamental value and a security level to be taken into consideration. If you are looking to secure your property, the project may take on an entirely different cosmetic appearance as well as a different final cost. This final cost is not just because the driveway gate materials are more involved and expensive, in order for your property to be secure, you must also remember that the entirety of your estate must be secure, not just the gate. A gate does little good if it is strictly ornamental and someone can simply walk to the end of a row of bushes to access your property!
Metal driveway gates are a popular selection and are what is often seen when you see photos or video of palatial estates being guarded from intruders. Wooden driveway gates are also available however and depending on your needs you may want to check out that they offer for your particular property and needs.
If your property is anything but flat and away from the street, you may have to do some consulting with an installer regarding how the driveway gates will actually open and close. Homeowners sometimes forget that gates that swing open and shut can require a significant amount of room for their normal movement. Opening out into the street and disrupting the flow of traffic is not a reasonable or acceptable option. Swinging gates will also now work well without customizing the installation if they are expected to guard a driveway that presents a hill directly in the way of the gates normal path. In instances like this, sliding driveway gates might be a preferable option. You can expect costs to vary for the project depending on what options you have chosen for your property.
The actual installations can get quite involved and can require rather extensive amounts of planning, excavation and overall execution. Because it is imperative that the entire operation remains stable for the lifetime of the gate, all parts of the project must be firmly secured into place. This may require steps as drastic as putting in concrete bases under ground where none previously existed. If the gates are to run on electricity, the source of the electricity must also be taken into account as well as possible manual over-ride options for times when the power may be out for one reason or another.
Driveway gates are a handsome way to increase the security of your home and to beautify the landscape. Installing these gates is not a project for beginners or the faint of heart though. If you do not have experience with such a project or have connections with someone who has done such installations before, it might be wise to consult a professional before proceeding.
