If You’ve Chosen Panel Fencing or Any Other Modern Solution…
…and you’re happy with your decision — both in terms of design and technical requirements — then it’s time to close the fencing topic once and for all, both figuratively and literally.
And by that, we mean it’s time to choose one or two final elements: the gate and the pedestrian wicket.
Not an Easy Choice
While choosing a wicket is relatively straightforward — mostly depending on appearance and security features — selecting a driveway gate can be much more complex. There are several important factors to consider, such as:
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Width – While pedestrian gates can be configured almost freely, driveway gates have limitations. In some technologies or product lines, you may not be able to order a gate as wide as you’d like. Even if it’s technically possible, a 9-meter-wide double-leaf gate means each wing is 4.5 meters long — which may be impractical for everyday use.
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Automation – With a limited budget, you might initially go for a manually operated gate. However, it’s worth choosing a model that allows for future automation upgrades. Automatic driveway gates significantly improve convenience and ease of use — don’t rule them out too quickly.
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Gate type – While traditional double-leaf gates are still common, they’re not always the best choice. For example, strong winds can cause real damage when such gates swing open suddenly. That’s why sliding gates are often a safer and more practical alternative in challenging weather conditions.
Don’t Overlook the Details
When choosing a gate, we tend to focus on the big picture — treating it as one solid, large element. But beyond the size and technology, there are smaller details that can make daily use much easier, such as:
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Remote controls – Consider how many remotes you’ll need and their range. Getting extra remotes later is usually affordable, but costs vary by technology. The range is equally important — most systems will work fine when you’re near the gate, but if you’d like to operate it from a distance (e.g. from your car down the street), consider a model with extended range.
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Color matching – If you’re buying your fence and gate from the same supplier, color consistency is almost guaranteed. If purchasing from different vendors, always check whether the models and finishes truly match — differences may not be visible online, but in person they can stand out.