Sliding driveway gates are a common addition to any property that wants to stay safe and secure. Sliding gates also take up less room and are easier to manage than swing gates. That said, automated gate systems are the best idea, no matter which system of gates you choose. When replacing your existing gate system it is important to choose the best material. Below are some materials and why you should choose or avoid them.

Sliding Driveway Gates : Traditional Properties
If you own a period property, you will want to keep your gates looking traditional. If this is the case there are two main materials that you might like to choose from. Traditional wrought iron and wood. Wooden gates look superb, and are common place at farms and rural dwellings. Before you introduce a wooden gate system however you should think carefully. Wood will rot, it will get damaged by the sun, and it will need staining or painting periodically. It can suffer from woodworm, and it will not last a lifetime.

That said, modern wooden gates that are maintained well will last for many decades. Wood is not the strongest of materials however, and if you live somewhere damp you should choose the highest quality wood possible for your gates. What this means is that wood for sliding driveway gates is not the cheapest option by far. Nor is however wrought iron.

Wrought iron is a superb choice for traditional properties as it will last for years and it is strong. Wrought iron has been used in gates and fencing for centuries. Once again, it is not the cheapest solution for your gates, but it is an investment that will last you virtually a lifetime.

Sliding Driveway Gates : Modern Alternatives
Sliding driveway gates can be made from whatever material you choose. This includes cheaper composite materials as well as steel and other metals. Metal gates in a modern design will suit modern properties in the same way that iron gates will suit an older property. If you will be opening and closing your gates frequently, choose a metal that is tough and strong. Steel may not be your best option. When choosing from metal gates for modern properties, ensure you choose a metal that is strong and durable. There is no reason to not use wrought iron. It can simply be manufactured into a more modern design.

Replacing your sliding gates does not need to be a major problem or consist of a lot of work. When you contact your local automated gates specialists in Bristol they can advise you on what material to choose. Help is at hand not just for choosing the material. Advice is available for style, material, colour, and more. When fitting new gates to your property, automated gates are definitely worth the money you invest. They will save you time, make your property more secure, and they will become a security feature at your property that can even result in a drop in your home insurance payments.