Driveway Gates

Timber gates – often hardwood such as iroko or oak, or treated softwood – suit cottages, farmhouses and homes with timber fencing, and can be fully boarded for privacy. They need re-oiling or staining every year or two.

Metal gates in steel or wrought iron are strong, slimmer and suit period and modern houses alike. Galvanising before powder coating gives the best protection against rust. Aluminium gates are light, so they are kind to automation motors.

Swing gates are the most common, but they need space on the drive to open – and a level or gently sloping drive, or gates that open outwards over the pavement are not allowed. Sliding gates work well on sloping drives and short driveways, provided there is room for the gate to run alongside the boundary.

Electric gates add convenience and security. Automation should be installed to the relevant safety standards, with photocells or safety edges to stop the gates closing on a person or car.

In England, gates, fences and walls next to a road used by vehicles (or a footpath beside it) are usually permitted development up to 1 metre high. Taller gates at the front of a property typically need planning permission, as do gates on listed buildings. Rules differ slightly in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland, so check with the local planning authority.