Have you just bought a brand new gate? Now is the time to think about its installation! To ensure it is properly supported, a gate pillar is highly recommended. Available in a multitude of materials, gate pillars offer various possibilities to match your low wall and your gate. It becomes a real decorative added value that marks your entrance with style and character. We take a closer look for you!
What is a gate pillar?
The main function of the gate pillar is to support the weight of the gate. Made of breeze blocks or hollow bricks, a flat or triangular cap is located at the top of the pillar, giving it a specific structure. You can find solid pillars, but these will be more expensive.
Gate pillars are bought in pairs, or in threes when there is a pedestrian gate. Its second function is aesthetic. Indeed, the gate pillar completes your low wall and offers it a better finish. It is entirely possible to match the pillar to the appearance of your wall as there is a multitude of colors and materials. This is what we are going to discover together!
How to choose your gate pillar?
A matter of strength
The choice of pillar is decided based on its strength. It is important to select a gate pillar according to the type of gate it will need to support. The lighter your gate material, the thinner the pillar can be.
Please note: Do not forget to include the weight of the hinges and frames in the total weight of the gate.
For example, for a steel or wooden gate, you will need solid pillars of approximately 40×40 cm. For an aluminum or PVC gate, pillars of 20×20 or 30×30 cm will be sufficient. Finally, for a motorized gate, the pillar must be stronger as it must support the entire electrical system.
Also take into account that the gate pillar must measure between 10 to 20 cm more than your wall and your gate.
Read also: “Everything you need to know about aluminum fencing”
Diverse and varied materials
- Concrete pillar: Extremely durable and solid (lifespan of over 50 years), the concrete pillar is the simplest solution for integrating a motorization system. Additionally, it can be coated, painted, or rendered to match your wall.
- Wooden pillar: The advantage of a wooden pillar is the natural and warm look it will give to your entrance. However, the material is not very resistant and requires a lot of maintenance against insects, for example.
- Natural stone pillar: Resistant to weather and time, its natural effect will give real charm to the front of your house. Do not forget to point the joints between the stones so that water does not seep in. Stones can also be painted!
- Reconstituted stone pillar: Easy to install, reconstituted stones are lighter and less expensive. They identically reproduce the design of real natural stones, without the drawbacks!
- Steel pillar: This material is very resistant to external elements if well maintained. Every 2 years, treat your gate pillars against rust. It provides a sober and modern look to your exterior.
- Aluminum pillar: For a more contemporary style, use aluminum! They blend into the continuity of your aluminum gate and match your aluminum fencing. Furthermore, aluminum is perfectly resistant to rust. No maintenance is required.
Read also: “Focus on aluminum”
The average price of a gate pillar
The price of a gate pillar varies according to the materials used. Here is an estimate for 1.50m pillars:
- Concrete: between €150 and €600
- Reconstituted stone: between €200 and €300
- Natural stone: approximately €500
- Aluminum: between €150 and €600
As for the price of a pillar cap (to be placed on top of the pillar), it varies between €10 and €50 per piece.
If you wish to have your pillars installed by a professional, count between €300 and €1,000 for the foundations, installation, and finishing.
How to install a gate pillar?
Placement
To correctly place your pillars according to the width of your gate, it is important to know a few tips:
Measure the gate and imperatively leave space for the hinges and finishes (such as render): about thirty centimeters. For a swing gate, leave some play between the 2 leaves: about 15 cm.
Here are some concrete examples to help you:
- For a 3.00m gate: the width between pillars must be between 3050 and 3110 mm.
- For a 3.50m gate: the width between pillars must be between 3550 and 3610 mm.
- For a 4.00m gate: the width between pillars must be between 4050 and 4110 mm.
Installation
- Dig a foundation footing 60 cm deep under the gate to protect it from frost underground. Place the horizontal reinforcement bars inside.
- Place the vertical reinforcement bars or 4 twisted rebars at the pillar locations.
- Fill the hole with concrete and let it dry for about 72 hours. Place the pillar block on a 2cm bed of mortar.
- Stack the blocks on top of each other using a level to ensure they are straight.
- Fill the blocks with concrete.
These steps are very important. They allow the pillars to support the weight of the sliding gate.
You are now ready to install your gate with peace of mind! The installation of a gate and its pillars can be complex and often requires calling in professionals. Do not hesitate to inquire in your area to find the right person for this work.
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