A garden gate is one of those essentials that we all take for granted - until it comes to choosing a new one. There’s so much to think about….the aesthetic, the dimensions, the materials and of course the price. So here are out tips on choosing a garden gate.
At first, it may seem like a daft question. What can your garden gate do for you? But every single garden is different.
For some, a gate may be a pretty addition to a secluded area of the garden - a way of creating zones if you like.
For others, the gate is all about privacy and security - keeping unwanted visitors at bay.
You may want your gate to be for pedestrians only, or you may need it to allow vehicular access.
What about animals? Do you want to keep pets in your garden or stop wildlife getting in to eat your plants?
There is usually a whole list of things to think about when choosing a garden gate, including of course, what it should look like. Your landscaper or garden designer will be able to guide your choices and will probably know exactly where to buy the perfect gate for your project.
If your garden gate is to be inserted within a fence line, it’s usual to have the gate match the fence. It just looks neater that way. But there’s no reason why you can’t go ‘rogue’ and buy or design something bespoke.
Lately we’ve been asked to install a few composite gates and fences. Composite is a great looking modern material that will never need maintenance other than an occasional wash down with soapy water. Provided of course that it’s properly installed and the gates are hung on to suitable posts.
My all time favourite material for pedestrian gates is, and probably always will be, timber. I’m a big advocate of FSC timber because of the sustainability aspect. And I love that timber can be stained to enhance the garden design, or that it can hold fixings for plant supports and/or lighting. The gates themselves can be personalised quite easily by choosing different hinges and handles or by adding a handy spy-hole for security.
Take Note: Different types of timber have vastly differing prices and lifespans. It’s worth doing your homework before settling on a particular gate design.
Metal. Oh my goodness, don’t get me started on the beauty of bespoke made metal gates. I’ve seen some absolute beauties on my travels that have been created from laser-cut sheet metal and then treated with cor-ten for longevity. That’s not to decry the beauty and substance of wrought iron (especially from the reclaimed yard). And the simplicity of estate fencing can never be denied.
As a rule of thumb, it’s always wise to assess the strength of existing gate fixings before choosing a new garden gate. Do you already have brick pillars - and are they in good condition? What about timber fence posts? Are they as strong as the day they went into the ground or will you take this opportunity to replace them?
If you intend to re-use existing supports, check with your landscaper or supplier whether there are any possible restrictions on what type of gate will be suitable.
Planning to have automatically opening gates? Again, check with the supplier and/or fitter what kind of supports they will need. You will also need to talk with a suitably qualified electrician as outdoor electrical need specialist installation.
The following pictures may give you some ideas for your new garden gate. You could also look at the website for Chase Timber Supplies who very often recommend Precision Paving and Landscaping as their preferred installer.
Need personalised advice? Contact us to arrange a consultation with Danny
