Complete Guide to Choosing Your Gate: Models, Materials, and Motorization

Installing a gate is a necessary investment that enhances the security and aesthetics of your entrance. Whether you prefer a swing gate, sliding gate, cantilever gate, or folding gate, each type of gate meets specific needs and configurations.

This guide explores the essential points for choosing a gate suitable for the configuration of your land, the style of your house, and your preferences in terms of functionality and maintenance.

1. Types of Gates: Features and Uses

Each type of gate has specific characteristics suitable for different spaces, styles, and levels of security. During installation, it is crucial to determine the gate’s specifications according to your needs and the available space.

Swing Gate: Elegance and Versatility for Large Entrances

The swing gate is the most classic type and consists of two leaves. Generally opening inward, it provides an elegant and traditional entrance, ideal for large driveways or gardens.

• Application: Perfect for large properties or classic-style houses with sufficient clearance space. This gate is also popular for spacious gardens and driveways, adding an aesthetic touch to the outdoor landscape.
• Advantages: Easy to install, the swing model can be motorized with articulated arms for optimal user comfort. Motor models such as the FAAC 391 are valued for their reliability and excellent value for money, offering a practical and economical solution.

Sliding Gate: Space Optimization, Ideal for Sloped Land

Cantilever Gate: Functionality Without Rail Constraints

The cantilever gate is a modern version of the sliding gate, operating without a ground rail. This suspended model opens without direct contact with the ground, making it practical for terrain with debris or poor conditions.

• Application: Suitable for areas exposed to snow, debris, or difficult conditions. The cantilever gate is also commonly installed in industrial areas to facilitate heavy vehicle access.

• Advantages: Requires little maintenance and is ideal for uneven terrain or with a slight slope. The cantilever gate, with its rail-free design, integrates perfectly into configurations requiring a clear passage. The King Gates Dynamos motor is recommended for this type of gate, offering smooth and reliable operation.

Folding Gate: Compact and Suitable for Restricted Spaces

The folding gate, or accordion gate, folds in on itself to maximize space without encroaching on the passage. This model is chosen for narrow entrances where installing a sliding or swing gate is impossible.

• Application: Particularly suitable for small driveways, garages, and urban areas requiring maximum space savings.

• Advantages: Compact and practical, it can be motorized for quick opening. This model is ideal for small urban properties, offering a practical and efficient solution in spaces where space is limited.

2. Gate Materials: Durability, Aesthetics, and Maintenance

The choice of material influences the durability, aesthetics, and regular maintenance of the gate.

• Aluminum: Lightweight, modern, and corrosion-resistant, aluminum is ideal for sliding and cantilever gates in humid climates. Its easy installation and maintenance make it a preferred material for those seeking a durable gate without excessive upkeep. An aluminum gate is especially valued for its longevity and contemporary design, well suited to modern architectures.

• Wood: Warm and authentic, perfect for swing gates in rustic or classic styles. However, it requires regular treatments against moisture and UV rays to maintain its natural appearance. Regular maintenance is essential to avoid degradation and extend the lifespan of a wooden gate.

• PVC: An economical solution for swing gates in small residential entrances. Lightweight and low-maintenance, PVC is ideal for those looking for good value for money and minimal upkeep. However, it is less resistant to extreme conditions and may deform under strong climatic variations, limiting its use in very sunny or cold environments.

• Steel and Wrought Iron: Extremely robust, perfect for gates requiring enhanced security. A steel or wrought iron gate is often used in high-end installations, requiring regular anti-rust treatment, especially in humid regions. This type of gate material is known for its strength and is often used in prestigious residential entrances.

3. Full or Openwork Gate: Choosing the Filling for More Privacy and Style

The filling, whether full or openwork, directly influences the aesthetic and the level of protection of a gate.

• Full Gate: Blocks the view from outside, ensuring optimal privacy. This type of gate is often recommended for houses located along the street or in areas where security and discretion are priorities. A full gate also protects against wind and bad weather, while ensuring a perfectly sealed gate closure.

• Openwork Gate: Offers an unobstructed view and lets light through, often chosen for houses set back from the street. It adds an elegant and light touch to the entrance of your property and can be made of wrought iron for a refined and decorative effect. This style is particularly suitable for more rural environments or gardens where one wishes to integrate the gate into the outdoor space.

4. Motorization: Comfort and Security for All Types of Gates

Motorizing your gate provides increased comfort and security, especially for sloped properties or large residences that require easy access. Domobip offers a wide selection of motorization systems from renowned brands such as FAAC, King Gates, Hormann, and Cardin. With this varied selection, each type of gate and land configuration can be equipped with the most suitable motorization for optimal and long-lasting operation.

Types of Motorization

• Articulated Arms: A simple and versatile solution for swing gates. This system consists of two mechanical arms that allow the gate to open inward or outward. It is ideal for aluminum or PVC gates of standard size.

• Hydraulic or Electromechanical Actuators: These actuators are designed for heavier swing gates, particularly those made of steel or wrought iron. They provide high driving force, ideal for gates requiring powerful and reliable motorization. This type of motorization is commonly used in large industrial and residential installations.

• Underground Motor: Perfect for swing or sliding gates and very popular in modern residences, the underground motor is invisible and does not interfere with the gate’s design. This system, hidden beneath the ground, nevertheless requires regular maintenance due to its direct exposure to moisture and external debris.

• Cantilever Motorization: Designed for cantilever sliding gates, it supports the weight of the gate without ground contact. This system is particularly suitable for uneven terrains or those subject to debris, mud, or snow. The King Gates Dynamos is a reliable motorization example, suitable for challenging configurations.

Safety Tip: For regions exposed to strong winds, choose motorization with an integrated lock for better wind resistance.

5. Maintaining Your Gate: Preserving Its Look and Functionality

Regular maintenance is essential to extend the lifespan and maintain the appearance of your gate, depending on the material used.

• Aluminum: A periodic cleaning with water is enough to remove accumulated dust.

• Wood: Apply waterproofing and UV treatments to protect against moisture and prevent cracks.

• PVC: A simple wash with soapy water ensures minimal maintenance.

• Steel and Wrought Iron: Apply an anti-rust treatment every two years, especially in humid areas, to prevent corrosion and prolong durability.

6. Aesthetic and Dimensional Criteria for a Harmonious Gate

For visual and functional harmony, choose a gate with dimensions and styles proportional to your entrance. Generally, a width of 3 to 4 meters is ideal to allow a vehicle to pass through.

• Style: Straight gates are suitable for modern and minimalist styles, while more elaborate designs, such as arched tops or curved shapes, add character to more traditional properties.

• Color and Finish: Matching the gate’s color to the façade or exterior elements enhances the overall aesthetic of the property.

Conclusion

FAQ: Choosing and Maintaining Your Gate

1. Which type of gate is recommended for sloped land?

Sliding or cantilever gates are ideal for sloped land as they do not require frontal clearance. The cantilever model, without a ground rail, is particularly well-suited to uneven terrain.

2. Is it mandatory to obtain a permit to install a gate?

Generally, a permit is not required, but a prior declaration may be needed. It is always best to check with the town hall to know the local regulations.

3. What are the main advantages of a motorized gate?

Motorizing a gate simplifies opening and enhances security, especially for heavy gates or in wind-exposed areas. Moreover, a suitable motorization allows for practical everyday use.

4. How do you maintain a wooden gate?

Apply a waterproof and UV treatment annually to protect the wood from moisture. This ensures its durability and preserves its appearance.

5. What material should you choose for a gate requiring little maintenance?

Aluminum is an excellent option: it is weather-resistant and does not rust, which reduces the necessary maintenance while offering a contemporary style.

6. Is it possible to motorize an existing gate?

Yes, many gates can be equipped with a motor after installation. Motorization systems suitable for swing and sliding gates are available depending on the type and weight of the gate.

7. What budget should be planned for a gate and its motorization?

The cost of a motorized gate depends on both the type of gate and the motorization chosen. Here is a detailed breakdown by material and motorization systems:

Gate price (by material):

• PVC: A lightweight and economical material, ideal for smaller budgets. PVC gates cost between €500 and €1,500, with low maintenance required.
• Aluminum: Appreciated for its resistance to corrosion and its modern look, an aluminum gate costs between €1,000 and €3,500.
• Wood: Offering a warm and natural aesthetic, wooden gates cost between €800 and €3,000, but require regular maintenance.
• Steel/Wrought Iron: Robust and secure, these gates cost between €1,500 and €6,000, with often more elaborate designs.

Motorization price (by type):

• Articulated Arms: Common for swing gates, with a price ranging from €350 to €1,500 (excluding installation).
• Actuators: Ideal for heavy gates, between €450 and €1,500 without installation.
• Underground Motorization: A discreet but costly solution, ranging from €800 to €3,000 excluding installation, or up to €3,600 with installation.
• Rack for Sliding Gates: Suitable for sliding gates, between €400 and €1,000 without installation, or up to €1,600 with installation.

These price ranges allow you to adapt your budget according to your preferences in terms of material, motorization, and design to find the most suitable solution for your needs.

8. What color and finish for a harmonious gate?

Choosing a color that matches your façade can enhance the aesthetics of your entrance. The finishes (matte, glossy, textured) allow further customization of the gate’s appearance while protecting it.