6 Questions to Ask About Driveway Gates

Driveway gates can add value to your home, making installing one practically a no-brainer. But if you haven’t looked into driveway gates before, you might be on the fence about which one to install. We’ve got you covered with six questions to ask a pro about driveway gates to help you make the right decision.

1. What kind of location is this?

Knowing the dimensions of your driveway and how much space is available can help your gate installer choose the right-sized driveway gate for your property. A standard driveway width ranges between 10 and 24 feet, depending on whether you have a one-car or two-car garage. 

You’ll also need to consider any trees or other obstacles that might reduce the space available for outward-facing driveway gates.

2. When do you need this work done?

Installing or repairing driveway gates in extreme weather can make it more difficult to complete the job. It can also cost more if your pro needs to clear snow. If you can time your driveway gate installation during early spring or late fall, you may be able to find cheaper services during this slow season.

3. Does any part of the driveway gate need repairs?

If you have an existing driveway gate and are unsure if it needs to be repaired or replaced, inspect it to determine its condition. From there, describe the condition to the gate installer so they can help you decide whether or not they can repair your gate. It’s also a good idea to take a picture of the gate to have at the ready in case your pro wants to look at it without having to visit your home.

4. What is the material of the gate you would like to install?

Your driveway gate’s material can impact its style, lifespan, security, and aesthetic. Steel and iron gates are the most durable and regal-looking materials. They are also long-lasting—and more expensive. Wooden gates offer a natural, earthy appearance and may offer more privacy than metal gates. However, they have a shorter lifespan and require more maintenance.

5. What type of driveway gate do you need to install or repair?

The type of driveway gate you choose plays a major role in the project’s cost and how long it takes to install the gate. There are three main types of driveway gates, with plenty of customization options within those three types: manual, automatic, and security driveway gates. 

Installing a driveway gate costs between $300 and $12,000. Manual driveway gates cost the least, ranging from $300 to $1,200, while an automatic driveway gate with home security features costs significantly more—around $12,000. An automatic driveway gate with all the bells and whistles can take longer to set up and install, so be prepared to dedicate more time to the installation process.

6. How do you want your driveway gate to open?

On top of the different driveway gate types, you also have different automatic gate options to keep in mind. An automatic garage gate can open in eight different ways, including:

• Sliding gate

• Cantilever gate

• Bi-folding gate

• Swing gate

• Vertical lift gate

• Vertical pivot gate

• Arm gate

• Curving sliding gate

Factor in how much space you have, the type of aesthetic you want, and the level of maintenance you can invest in your gate to help you pick the best type of automatic gate mechanism for your home. A local driveway gate installer can go over the pros and cons of each option with you.