Pedestrian Access & Security
A high-quality fence is only as secure as its weakest access point. Garden gates provide essential pedestrian access to side alleys, front driveways, and rear pathways while maintaining the overall security envelope of your property.
A professionally installed gate deters uninvited access, keeps pets safely contained, and provides a clear, lockable entry point. We focus heavily on building gates that do not sag or jam over time, ensuring reliable daily operation.
Gate Style Coordination
The most visually appealing boundaries feature gates that blend seamlessly with the fencing. We ensure complete style coordination:
- Matching Materials: Using the exact same timber profiles, such as featheredge boards or modern slats, so the gate appears as a continuation of the fence.
- Height Alignment: Ensuring the top line of the gate perfectly matches the height of the adjacent fence panels for a neat finish.
- Placement Considerations: Carefully planning which way the gate swings (inward or outward) based on pathways, steps, and available garden space.
Hardware Considerations
Heavy timber gates require serious hardware. We use heavy-duty, galvanized or powder-coated hinges (such as robust tee hinges or adjustable band and gudgeon hinges) designed to take the weight of solid wood without sagging. Secure padbolts, ring latches, and integrated locks are fitted according to your security requirements.
Installation Planning
Hanging a gate correctly requires precision. The gate posts take significantly more stress than standard fence posts due to the swinging weight and impact of the gate closing. Therefore, we use thicker section posts and anchor them with extra concrete footing.
We carefully measure the opening, construct or adjust the gate frame to allow for natural timber expansion during wet weather, and fit the hardware to ensure a smooth, level swing that latches securely every time.
What to Expect: Our Process
Access Review
Measuring the opening and discussing the required swing direction.
Style Matching
Selecting materials that perfectly complement your existing or new fencing.
Post Installation
Setting heavy-duty gate posts deeply with reinforced concrete.
Hanging
Aligning the gate precisely on durable, heavy-duty hinges.
Hardware Fitting
Installing secure latches, bolts, and locks to your specification.
Operation Check
Ensuring the gate swings smoothly without catching on the ground.
Example Application
A client had a narrow side alleyway providing access from the front driveway to the rear garden. The old, flimsy gate had rotted, hung off one hinge, and provided no security for the back of the house.
We removed the damaged gate and excavated the old posts. We installed two substantial 100mm timber posts, setting them firmly in concrete. We then constructed a custom-width, solid closeboard gate to match their rear fence. Mounted on heavy galvanized tee-hinges and fitted with a pad-lockable slide bolt, the new side-access gate provided an immediate upgrade in home security while looking clean and professional.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do wooden garden gates sag?
Sagging is usually caused by inadequate hinges, a weak gate frame (lack of a diagonal brace), or gate posts that weren't set deeply enough. We address all three issues to ensure our gates remain aligned.
Can you build a gate to fit an unusual opening?
Yes. Many side alleys are not standard widths. We custom-build or tailor timber gates to fit exact gaps perfectly.
What side should the gate hinges go on?
This depends on the space. We usually recommend hanging the gate so it opens against a wall or fence line, maximizing the clear walkway.
Can you install a lock on a wooden gate?
Yes. We can install anything from a simple ring latch with an internal slide bolt, to key-operated rim locks for higher security access.
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Contact us today to discuss your fencing requirements. We offer professional consultation and precise installation across Sachsen-Anhalt.
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