What Are Sliding Driveway Gates?

Sliding gates are a common addition to driveways, that elevate safety and convenience of use. Compared to swing gates, sliding gates take up less room and are easier to control.

Electric sliding gates can greatly improve the efficiency of a residential or commercial property entrance, particularly in places with space restrictions. Apart from convenience, sliding gates can enhance the curb appeal of the entire estate. They are available in a variety of materials and styles, from classic to modern.  

Electric Sliding Gates Advantages

While swing gates require a significant portion of space to swing into the property, sliding gates move sideways, requiring some width but no depth. 

Automated sliding gates eliminate the need for getting out of a car, which is especially convenient in case of rain or snow. As the motorized gate locks, the integrated safety beams fall in place, providing security and peace of mind without a reason to worry if the gate is closed.   

The electric sliding gate is a highly functional feature. Apart from fitting in a restricted space, it offers extensive openings, suitable for commercial use and for driveways with an upward slope. Since it’s positioned on wheels, it’s less likely to suffer damage from colliding with the ground or with the objects, saving the owner hassle of repair or reinstallation.

Types of Sliding Gates

A cantilever gate is simple to install, safe and fit for automation. The installation is not much different than a swing gate. It never touches the ground; instead, a cantilever gate rides on rollers attached to the posts, running through a channel welded to the gate. The cantilever gates cannot be lifted, which makes them a sturdier option than track rolling gates.

Sliding gates can also come as a track system. In this case, wheels of the sliding gate travel over a metal track attached to a concrete footing. The absence of cantilever makes the gate roll smoothly with smaller gate operators. This system also doesn’t require a remarkably rigid frame, which all makes the option slightly more affordable than others.

A telescopic sliding gate has adjacent panels, usually two or three, that slide on parallel tracks. This system is excellent for wide openings, as it allows simultaneous movement of all panels, ending up in complete overlapping. Variations include a system where one board enters inside another, and a self-supporting telescopic gate without a track on the ground. The last one is beneficial on challenging surfaces and passages for heavy vehicles. 

Common Materials for Automatic Sliding Gates

Traditional wrought iron and wood are ideal for properties with a classic flair. Wrought iron is durable and robust. While it may not represent the most affordable solution, it’s an investment that lasts a lifetime.

Wooden sliding gates can fit a range of styles, from rustic farm side to contemporary urban neighbourhoods. On the con side, wood can rot or get damaged by the sun and needs consistent maintenance. 

Modern sliding driveway gates are commonly made of metal or composite materials. For a gate that has to endure frequent and heavy use, it’s essential to choose a metal that is tough and strong, such as aluminium. 

Manual Sliding Gate VS. Automatic Sliding Gates

With small sliding gates, there is no crucial need for a motorised solution. The benefit of this approach is in its affordability. However, the manual operation still requires getting out of the car each time to open and close the gate. 

Motorised sliding gate, on the other hand, is convenient in almost every way. Most homeowners prefer the electronic solution because it makes life easier, above all. 

More things to consider

Besides budget and specific requirements, there are other important factors to pay attention to when choosing a sliding gate.

Entrance size is crucial, and the driveway space must be adequately measured. Furthermore, different types of gates require various numbers of posts. This can be calculated prior to installation, according to the size. 

The concrete surface must be well planned, preferably straight and plain without any slopes or bands. Finally, a power supply must be provided nearby, whether standard or the solar one.