How To Choose The Size Of Your Patio Gate

Regardless of whether you are shopping for a gate for a small backyard fence or a commercial facility, you should choose the size based on its use.

What’s The Gate For?

The width of your gate will determine how easy it is to walk in and bring items such as wheelbarrows, lawn mowers, or garden tools through the fence. If you have a large driveway or wide walkway, choose a gate that is accordingly wider; if you have a small area and only need the gate for occasional use, a smaller gate will suffice. Keeping in mind the use of the gate, measure the opening for your fence before you begin building it. This is important so you can establish the exact size of your patio gate and how much material you’ll need to build it. You can also use the measurements to draw a simple plan for the gate and how it will fit into the existing railing, which will help you cut your parts accurately.

Choosing The Right Style

Whether you’re building a brand new house or repairing your existing home, it’s important to choose the right style of patio gate for your property. A gate that matches the aesthetics of your home is an easy way to increase curb appeal. For example, if your house is in a colonial or Hampton-style design, a traditional picket fence and gate will complement your home’s architecture well. Or if your home is modern, clean lines of slat fencing and gates look great against a minimalist aesthetic. But choosing the right one is a challenging decision. It needs to be a good fit with your fence, as well as complement the style of your house. It should also be strong enough to withstand the wind and weather conditions.

Choosing The Right Material

Wood is a popular material for garden gates, but it must be painted or varnished regularly to maintain its appearance and prevent rotting. Pressure-treated pine is a common option, but it can be substituted with rot-resistant materials like cedar or redwood. You can also choose aluminum, which is a durable metal that doesn’t corrode or crack. A lightweight and low-maintenance material, it can be welded and shaped just like steel. The best choice is to consult with a contractor and see what they have in mind for your property. The gate may be the most expensive part of a new fence, but it’s worth it in the end.