Choosing an electric gate comes down to five questions. Answer these and you're most of the way there – and I'm always happy to help you think them through on site.
1. Swing or sliding?
This depends mostly on your driveway.
- Swing gates need room behind them to open – roughly the width of each gate leaf – and work best on a level driveway.
- Sliding gates need a clear run beside the opening instead. They're ideal for short driveways, slopes and busy entrances.
More in sliding vs swing electric gates.
2. What material?
- Wrought iron (from £2,000) – classic or modern, strong and secure.
- Composite (from £2,200) – a timber look with very little maintenance.
- Wood (from £1,600) – warm and traditional, but needs looking after.
See my comparison of gate materials.
3. How private do you want it?
Open railings let you see out (and others see in). Solid infill gives full privacy but catches the wind, which affects the motor choice. A half-and-half design – solid at the bottom, railings at the top – is a popular middle ground. See driveway gate designs.
4. Which motors?
- Overground (from £1,800) – cost-effective, easy to service.
- Underground (from around £2,400) – hidden away, nothing on show.
- Hydraulic (Fadini, price on survey) – for heavy, large or busy gates.
- Sliding (from £1,400) – for sliding gates.
See comparing gate motor types.
5. How will you open it?
Remotes, keypad, video intercom, fobs, your phone – or a mix. Think about everyone who needs to get in: family, visitors, deliveries, carers, the bin lorry. See access control.
Things people forget
- Power. Where will the supply come from, and how far?
- The road. Can a car pull fully off the road while the gate opens?
- Planning. Height limits apply next to roads. See planning permission.
- Pedestrian access. Do you want a separate side gate for people?
My gate planning checklist covers all of this.
Get some help choosing
I'll come out, have a look and give you honest advice – no hard sell. Call, text or WhatsApp Adrian on 07855 781433.
Questions people ask me
What's the most popular type of electric gate?
A pair of swing gates with overground motors – a good balance of cost, looks and reliability.
What gate is best for a short driveway?
Usually a sliding gate, as it doesn't need room to swing.
Do I need a pedestrian gate too?
It's handy for walking in and out without opening the main gate, and many people add one.