Are you tired of your old swing gate? After installing an aluminium fence, would you like to complete the boundary of your property to secure access as much as possible?
Whatever your reasons, choosing a cantilever sliding gate model can be a good alternative. Less well known to homeowners than the classic sliding gate, this type of cantilever system is often installed in industrial areas. Yet it is perfectly suited to single-family homes. Discover its advantages, disadvantages and, above all, the criteria for choosing the right one.
The features of a cantilever sliding gate
Unlike the classic sliding gate on a track that everyone knows—including you—a model with a cantilever system does not need a ground track to operate. In fact, when opening and closing, it does not come into direct contact with the ground. And there is no magic trick involved!
This equipment features a particularly clever mechanism. It moves thanks to a hollow rail located at the bottom of the gate leaf, which slides sideways via a roller system anchored in a concrete footing. That explains everything…
Please note: a counterweight (a support arm that extends from one of the gate posts) is required to ensure stability during operation.
Why choose a cantilever sliding gate?
Before investing in this type of sliding gate, take the time to think it through. To help you make up your mind, discover the advantages and disadvantages of this equipment.
10 good reasons to choose a cantilever sliding gate
A cantilever system has several appealing advantages that have already won over many homeowners.
1. Minimal masonry work
Unlike a track sliding gate, it does not require a concrete beam (a foundation to install a track with a length equivalent to twice the width between the two posts). All you need is a concrete anchoring point on each side, to which the roller system and the posts will be fixed.
2. Quick installation
No need to dig a trench, install a track, remove a lot of soil, or prepare a large volume of concrete… which drastically reduces installation time. As a result, you can enjoy your new gate sooner!
3. Lower landscaping costs
Less work means a lighter budget!
4. Preserves the existing surface
No need to break up the outdoor surface (even if you have just renovated it!) along the entire length to install your cantilever sliding gate!
5. No threshold effect
On sloping ground, a concrete beam can damage your car’s underbody every time you pass. With a cantilever system, there is no rubbing!
6. Easy maintenance
Without a track, there is no need to remove accumulated gravel! It will not risk blocking the gate’s opening or closing…
7. Functionality suited to all types of terrain
Whatever the constraints. A slope (sideways, uphill or downhill…), grass or pebbles, sandy or soft ground… Situations that make it impossible to install a track or a swing gate.
8. Easy to use in any season
Whether it is snowing or the wind has blown piles of dead leaves down, you will not need to clear the way every morning before leaving for work!
9. High resistance for installation in any region
Even if you live in a windy area, strong gusts are unlikely to make it derail.
10. Option to add a motor
Enjoy greater day-to-day comfort! Your cantilever sliding gate can be fitted with a motor to open or close it at the press of a button on your remote control… Make sure you choose an automation system that is powerful enough.
Districlos tip: find out how to choose the right motor for a sliding gate!
Cantilever system: the disadvantages of this type of gate
Like other outdoor landscaping equipment (wooden privacy screen…), cantilever sliding gates also have certain limitations.
Even if the budget allocated to the work is lower, the purchase price of a cantilever sliding gate remains higher than that of a swing gate or a classic sliding gate.
Of course, it all depends on the options chosen (material, motorisation, etc.). Another drawback is its weight and length. In fact, the cantilever system is suitable for lightweight gates (forget wrought iron) and limits the dimensions of the model chosen (around 6 m maximum).
Finally, the last disadvantages are the aesthetics and the clearance space required. To guarantee balance, the cantilever sliding gate is fitted with a counterweight.
This is often a triangular support arm, which you may find rather unattractive. In addition, it is bulky and not very compatible with a small run-back space.
Are you in one of these situations? Do not worry—a classic sliding gate remains a very good solution! You will undoubtedly find the aluminium gate of your dreams among Districlos sliding gate models. Excellent value for money, 10-year warranty (3 quality and durability labels), the option to add a motor at no extra cost thanks to a reinforced crossbar, multiple design choices (solid leaf, bar design, machined patterns)…
How to choose the right cantilever sliding gate
First of all, an important point: do you think you can install the gate of your choice to finish enclosing your land? No, not entirely!
In fact, certain constraints may be imposed by the co-ownership rules and/or your municipality’s Local Urban Plan (PLU).
So forget the 4 m-high fuchsia-pink cantilever gate designed to impress your neighbours while preventing them from daring to look inside your property!
Check with your property manager and your town hall to find out which rules you must comply with. Then you will have everything you need to make your choice, taking the following criteria into account.
Materials suitable for a cantilever gate
Were you considering steel or wrought iron? Choosing these fairly heavy metals is not recommended for a cantilever sliding gate. Since it is not supported by a ground track, it is better to opt for lighter materials. PVC has several advantages (low cost, easy maintenance, etc.), but it looks less attractive. In addition, because it is lightweight, it should be avoided if the gate is over 5 m, as it may warp over time.
On the other hand, aluminium is a relevant choice on every level! Stylish, robust, rustproof, lightweight, available in a wide range of styles, finishes and colours, and easy to maintain, this material meets all your expectations.
Did you know? There are several options for assembling an aluminium gate: welding and bolting. Each version has its advantages and disadvantages. At Districlos, we offer models with a mortise-and-tenon mechanically welded assembly, which guarantees excellent long-term strength.
Existing outdoor features
Has your neighbour created an elegant, harmonious look by coordinating their garden wicket gate with the rest of their outdoor features? You can do the same! It is also a key factor in helping you choose the right cantilever sliding gate.
Have you already fitted your garden with an aluminium fence and an aluminium wicket gate? Avoid a wooden gate—it would not be the best match in your case. Instead, choose an elegant aluminium gate, in the same design style and the same shades to enhance your home.
Available run-back space
Time to get out your tape measure!
A sliding gate requires lateral run-back space equal to the length of the gate (clear opening width) + a 50 cm safety margin. But with a cantilever system, you must also take into account the counterweight at the rear of the gate.
If you have limited clearance space, choose a rectangular support arm—a much more compact cantilever system. Not only does it allow this type of gate to be installed on a narrow plot, it is also far more attractive (invisible from the outside and discreet from the inside).
Districlos tip: to split the run-back length on each side of the gate, choose a two-leaf cantilever sliding gate. This is a solution suited to certain space constraints.
Have the advantages of the cantilever sliding system caught your eye? Fortunately, you still have the other one (eye!) to choose the cantilever sliding gate that suits your situation, your preferences and your budget. Once this equipment is installed, you (and your neighbour) will look at your property with fresh admiration…
Dans le même thème
Expert in fencing, gates, and outdoor landscaping since 2019.
Holds a Master’s degree in Digital Marketing – SEO, UX/UI.
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