Opening and use
Think about people, bins, mowers, pets or vehicles, the direction of swing and the space needed to open without scraping.
Gates · access and finish
Choosing a gate
five things to check.
The gate needs to fit the opening, swing over the ground and close properly. Check these five details before choosing a style or asking for a quote.
Gate, posts and fence · one considered opening
Quick decision guide
A gate is a moving boundary.
Plan it around use.
The right gate depends on what needs to pass through, how often it moves and what the posts and ground can support. The style comes after those practical checks.
Support and hardware
Posts, hinges, latches and locks carry the movement. A loose post or worn fitting can change the sensible repair or replacement route.
Ground and fence
Slopes, thresholds, clearance, height and the adjoining fence all affect the finished opening. A gate should look and work as part of the boundary.
Before choosing a gate, check the usable opening and the ground around it. Photos of the posts, path and adjoining fence help show what needs to fit.
Five things to check
before you choose.
1. Measure the usable gap
Measure between the posts or walls, not the old gate leaf. Think about what needs to pass through: a person, wheelie bin, mower or vehicle. Note which way the gate should open.
2. Check the gate posts
A gate moves each time it opens and closes. Its posts must suit the gate, its fittings and the ground. If an existing post is loose, a new gate may not fix the problem.
3. Choose the hinges and latch
Choose hinges for the size and use of the gate. Decide whether you need a simple latch, a lock or an extra bolt. Ask for the fittings to be listed in the written quote so it is clear what is included.
4. Leave room to open
Paths, lawns and driveways can slope. Check that the gate will swing without scraping and still leave the gap you want underneath. If the ground is uneven, ask how the gate will be set to clear it.
5. Plan the gate with the fence
Choose whether the gate should match the fence or stand apart. Height, boards and finish all affect how the opening looks. If the fence is new, plan the gate and boundary together.
For a first conversation: send one photo of the full opening, close photos of the hinges and latch, and a photo of the ground and adjoining fence. Add your postcode and approximate width if you know it.
See fence gate work, use the job-details tool or request a written quote with your photos.