Driveway Gates

Whether you’re looking to increase privacy, security, and boost property value, or are concerned about the safety of children, pets, employees, or patrons, a driveway gate could be your solution. They offer a distinguished entrance for homes and businesses alike, can prevent unauthorized access to your property, and can greatly improve curb appeal if you are planning to sell. Businesses trying to protect assets, as well as homeowners with long driveways and secluded properties, should consider a driveway gate–it is your best first defense against intruders. 

When you need to secure your property, Henry Fence is here to help.

What Are Driveway Gates?

Driveway gates (also known as drive gates) are, much as they sound, gates placed at the entrypoint to your driveway. They can be used at other places on a property as well, but the end of a driveway is the traditional placement. Driveway gates serve as physical barriers to entry and help to control access to your property. They can be practical and utilitarian in appearance, or they can be more aesthetically pleasing. Either way, they serve an important purpose–keeping people or pets inside, and unauthorized individuals and vehicles outside.

Driveway gates can be automated and remotely controlled, often via manual input, or a programmed mechanism. They are available in a range of materials, come in a few key styles and types, and can be custom-built to suit your specific needs and location. The Henry Fence team will work with you to install the ideal gate for your unique concerns and requirements.

Types of Driveway Gates

Henry Fence offers two main types of driveway gates: swing gates and cantilever gates. Let’s break down these terms and give you an idea of what to expect with both types.

Swing Gates

Swing gates can be constructed using either a single or two twin doors which swing in or out to open on an arc that is approximately 90 degrees. They open like a traditional door, using a hinge system, and can either be manually or automatically opened and closed. It is best to have a wide enough area to install a swing gate, as it’s necessary to have a space that is at least as wide as the driveway, adjacent to the gate. 

Cantilever Gates

Cantilever gates are similar to sliding gates, but they do not implement a ground track. Instead, cantilever gates are suspended from nylon rollers attached to mounting posts–the gate does not come into direct contact with the ground and does not utilize wheels. The term “cantilever” refers to overhanging structures without external bracing–weight distribution and various physical forces help to keep cantilever gates level, along with welded diagonal bracing and trusses. To ensure that a cantilever gate doesn’t sag and operates smoothly, professional installation from expert gate installers is key.

Cantilever gates are often as much as 50% larger than the gate opening, due to the need to balance the gate via the overhang. They also typically move in one direction, parallel to an existing fence line, making for an efficient use of perimeter fence spacing. Cantilever gate operation can be manual or automated, and because they are suspended in the air, they can be used on uneven or grassy surfaces, and operate despite debris or accumulated snow. Henry Fence installs ZipTrack™ cantilever gates, along with custom built units.

Drive Gate FAQs

Now that you know what’s available, you probably have a few questions. Let’s answer some of the most common questions we field, and please feel free to contact us if yours is not answered here.

Should I get a swing or cantilever driveway gate?

The answer to this question really depends on your specific needs and site conditions. While both swing and cantilever driveway gates are durable and relatively easy to maintain, cantilever gates may provide better security and are generally more suitable for rough terrains. Because cantilever gates are suspended they often don’t deal with as much wear and tear as other types of driveway gates, so may have a marginally longer lifespan. While they do have advantages, the amount of space needed for a cantilever versus a swing gate is substantial–property owners with less clearance available may be better off with a swing gate. In general, since many cantilever gates feature sealed bearings and nylon rollers, required maintenance needs are far less than with swing gates.

All that said, the unique characteristics of your property will determine which type of gate is best for your needs. Consult with the professional team at Henry Fence for a personalized suggestion.

Is there a minimum size my driveway gate should be?

Depending on where you live, your local requirements may stipulate a driveway gate with at least a 14′ opening. This will allow for plenty of clearance for any emergency equipment that may need to access your property. If you do not have local guidelines to follow, we recommend a driveway gate that is 10-12′ wide, to help prevent accidents from large delivery vehicles.

Do I need a permit to install a driveway gate?

If you live in a town or city, or under an HOA, then you likely will need to obtain a permit for a new gate installation, even if you are simply replacing an existing fence. But circumstances vary, and it is worth asking questions. The team at Henry Fence is also likely aware of the local regulations or can find them out for you as we plan your project. On the other hand, if you are in a rural area, there may not be any need to apply for a permit to install a driveway gate.

Can I have a custom designed or custom built driveway gate?

Yes, of course! At Henry Fence, our skilled team can build whatever you dream, within the limits of physics, mechanics, and local restrictions. Whether you want something purely utilitarian or more ornate, we can work with you to develop and implement the ideal swing or cantilever driveway gate for your property. We can work along with your landscape designer or architect as well to ensure a cohesive look and smooth functioning without complications.

Professional Residential & Commercial driveway Gate Installation

Henry Fence offers professional fencing installation and design services in Northeast Ohio. We proudly serve Lake, Eastern Cuyahoga and Geauga Counties and the surrounding areas. Our team of experienced installers makes sure that every step of your fence design and installation process is carefully planned and executed. The final product will meet all relevant requirements while also being a complementary aesthetic addition to your home or business. Our USA-made fencing options are perfect for nearly any situation. 

If your fence isn’t achieving its purpose without a gate, contact us for a free site assessment and an accurate cost estimate. Contact us today to learn more and start planning your next driveway gate project. In the meantime, check out our gallery to see some examples of what's possible!