Sliding driveway gates are an excellent way to add security and style to your property. They can also improve your resale value, and they are incredibly easy to maintain.
There are a few different types of sliding driveway gates, so it is important to choose the right one for your home or business. You’ll want to consider your preferences, priorities, and needs. Some gate designs are more aesthetic than others, and you’ll also need to consider the safety of your neighbors and local authorities before you decide which type is best for your property.
Depending on your budget, you can have your gate built from various materials. Some popular choices include aluminium, vinyl, and wood. These materials all have different advantages and disadvantages, so it’s important to know what you need before making a decision.
Installation: Preparing the ground
Before you can install your sliding driveway gate, there are some important steps that need to be completed. You’ll need to prepare your track, build the concrete plinth area and secure your posts.
A straight and consistent drop is required for your gate to slide smoothly. This means that the run off portion of your track (from the guide bracket to the end of the gate) must fall a consistent 400mm. This is to ensure that there are no rises and falls in the track.
Plinth and Posts
To get your gate to slide properly, you’ll need a post each side of the driveway. This is where the sliding gate will hinge to, and it should be level so that the opening is on the same plane as the rest of your driveway.
Your posts should be at least 600mm deep and preferably concreted in place. This is essential for your gates to hang correctly and to resist any pressure from automation.
The concrete plinth must be at least 500mm thick and it’s best to bury it around the post so that there is an even layer of concrete. It’s also important to ensure the post remains square to your gate as you pour in the concrete.
Gate Motor Pad
Once you have your plinth and posts ready, you’ll need a pad for the gate motor to bolt down to. This pad should be at least 400mm square x 100mm deep with extra to allow for a guide post if necessary.
When installing your gate, make sure you leave the motor pad completely level and drained so that there are no problems with it running off the ground when it opens and closes. You’ll also need to take into account where the limit switches will be located.
Safety Edges
Sliding driveway gates need safety edges on both sides of the gate to stop them falling or collapsing in on children and animals. It is best to use metal catches for these, but if you are going with an alternative design, ensure that they meet Australian standards. You can even purchase safety edges that will automatically retract when the gate is closed.