Driveway gates are an attractive addition to your property while also making it more secure.
But what happens when you cannot find the size that you need?
Fortunately, there are manufacturers that will make your driveway gates to order.
Below, we explain how the process works as well as answering the most frequently asked questions.
How to obtain a quote for my driveway gates
If you would like a quote calculated from a precise specification for your aluminium gates, then we are happy to oblige.
It will not be treated as an order, and there is no obligation to buy after asking for a price.
The cost is determined by the gates’ measurements, with numbers required for the height of the pillars the gates will be mounted on, the width between them, and the height of the gates themselves.
You should ask a qualified installer to take these for you in a survey.
Bespoke gates cannot be returned, so it is vital to ensure that every measurement is accurate before they are manufactured.
Other features, like electric or mechanical locking mechanisms and above ground of underground automation – if you are having automation – will obviously increase the price.
Alternatively, complete this simple form on our website and we’ll reply to you with a quote.
How to order swing gates
At Stargates, we make it easy to order driveway gates.
Initially, as explained above, you need to supply the required measurements.
If you don’t know an installer with the expertise to do that for you, then we’ll show you what’s needed below.
You then identify the gate you are looking for, and the finish.
Tell us too what type of infill you want; they are the panels that form the gate’s centre inside the outer frame, and can be positioned in a variety of different ways.
Next, you’ll need to choose the features you want your gate to come equipped with.
These include how it opens, the type of motor (if you want automation), and the colour, texture, or wood-effect finish.
Finally, add any other notes or requests that you have and wait for us to do the rest!
How to order sliding gates
The process is similar to the one for swing gates, but the form is different.
You can find it here.
We need the same personal information and measurements for your gate as above.
After that, choose your favourite design, colour, infill layout and choice of motor.
Then let us know if you want the gate to slide to the right, or left, when viewed from the outside.
Finish with any additional notes or requests you have and send the form to us for a quote.
What is the standard size for driveway gates?
It depends on how wide your driveway is.
Typically, driveways in the UK range from nine to 24 feet (2.5 – 7.5m) wide, and the precise measurement is dependent usually on whether they lead to a single or double garage.
However, if your driveway has space for more than one car, it is likely to be around 20 to 24-feet (6 – 7.5m) wide.
As a guide, the most commonly used gates are either 10, 12 or 16-feet (about 3, 3.5 or 5m) wide.
However, if you have a 20-foot (6m) wide driveway, there are several options to choose from.
They include:
- A bigger gate
- Two swing gates
- Double sliding gates
- Bi-fold swing gates
- A cantilever gate
- Moving your pillars closer together or building wider ones
How do I measure the sizes needed?
As mentioned above, you must take measurements before placing an order for custom-sized driveway gates.
But don’t worry, we’re here to help.
For swing and sliding gates:
Width between pillars
It is exactly as described above.
Measure from the inside of the pillars your gate will fit between.
Ensure you have someone to assist so the tape is straight and pulled tight for an accurate reading.
Hinge style height from the ground
This refers to the desired height of the gates that you want.
Bear in mind you will need to measure the height closest to the pillars, which might mean a smaller figure than the highest point of your gate if it rises at the centre.
We suggest leaving an equal amount of room at the top and bottom of the surrounding pillars.
That gap should be enough to prevent your gate from scraping against the floor.
Be wary too if it opens onto a rising driveway.
We recommend the hinge style height to be at least 100mm (a little over 3ft) less than the pillars’ height, so bear this in mind when determining how tall you want your gate.
Pillar height from ground to underside of coping stone
The pillar height is self-explanatory; just make sure that you measure it accurately with the tape flush to the ground.
A coping stone is a cap that sits on top.
Make sure that you stop at the bottom, so you’re only measuring the pillar itself.
Will customising the size compromise a design?
Again, it depends on the design of the gate.
Stargates manufactures a wide range of lovely aluminium gates, all of which can be found in their classic, contemporary, modern and design ranges.
The design of your chosen gate should not be affected by the differing sizes too much, if at all, but you can ask any questions you have in the notes section on the quotation form.
One of our advisers will get back to you with confirmation of whether your gate’s design will be affected or not.
Alternatively, you can give Stargates a call on 033 022 24800 or send an email to enquiry@stargateuk.net if you want to discuss anything about your order.
You can ask us any other questions you have about the process as well.
If possible, remember to have the gate model reference number to hand so we can tell you whether the design will need to be altered.