If you want to install a gate on your property, you'll need to choose between those that swing outward and those that slide along a track to one side or the other. While both of these styles may have certain advantages, note a few reasons why you might consider swing gates versus a sliding gate for your home:
Appearance
Swing gates have a very traditional look and feel, and may create a stately atmosphere and appearance for your property. Their swinging motion may appear to "welcome" you home as you enter, enhancing their appearance.
Swinging gates also don't need the chain and trench that is required for a sliding gate but work on standard hinges, also making them more attractive and less industrial-looking, as that trench can disrupt the look of your front lawn. You can even opt for oversized hinges for your swing gate, to add more visual appeal and to make them even more stately and attractive.
Manual opening
Most residential gates will come with some type of power backup system, such as a battery or solar panel so that the gate can continue to work even if your property has a power outage. However, if you do need to manually open the gate for any reason, a swing gate can be much easier to manage than a sliding gate. If your area has frequent power outages, or your gate will be used for foot traffic, such as when children arrive home from school, a swing gate may be the best choice.
Economical
Swing gates are usually more affordable to install than sliding gates, as a sliding gate needs a trench dug for the chain mechanism, whereas swing gates only need to be attached to a post with hinges. This can mean a faster and a more affordable installation overall.
Maintenance
Swing gates will need some oiling of the hinges on a regular basis, and the material of the gates themselves may need occasional repainting and other such repairs. However, a sliding gate will need to have the track consistently maintained, as any dirt, sand, leaves, and other debris that settle into this track can stop the gate from operating. The chain that pulls the sliding gate may also need consistent adjustment, as it may lose tension and strength over time. Also, if your property tends to shift and settle, the track may become uneven so that the gate doesn't move easily and gets stuck while in operation. For less maintenance and work over time, choose a swing gate.
Share27 November 2017
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