Are you wondering whether to choose PVC or aluminium? Manual or electric? These are all questions that can make choosing your sliding gate confusing. But do not worry—our experts are here to guide you through the entire selection process. Here are the steps to follow to make the right choice.
Choosing the size of your sliding gate
Start by determining the size of your sliding gate. This will depend on several factors, including:
- The width of the entrance
- The space available for the gate’s lateral opening
- The style of your property
Taking accurate measurements of the entrance where the gate will be installed is essential to ensure a smooth installation and avoid future issues. Do not forget to also consider the required gate height so that its look matches your property.
Cantilever or ground track?
There are two different opening systems: cantilever and ground track. Of these two opening systems, the ground track is the one most people are familiar with. However, it is worth knowing that the cantilever system has many advantages, particularly in terms of maintenance. The differences between these two systems mainly come down to the guiding system and the masonry work.
The guiding system
The first difference to note between a cantilever sliding gate and a track-mounted one is precisely the system used to guide each of these gates. A track-mounted sliding gate is supported by wheels that move along a track sealed into the ground. However, with this opening system, the gate is more exposed to wind, which can cause it to come off the track. In addition, with a ground-track sliding gate, you must constantly make sure that things such as piles of dead leaves or small stones do not block it from closing.
Masonry work
As for the difference in terms of masonry work, it should be noted that a track-mounted sliding gate requires a sufficiently substantial concrete grade beam. It is important to note here that the length of this concrete grade beam should be roughly twice the width of the opening you want. By contrast, for a cantilever gate, you only need two concrete pads, which you will use to fix the roller system as well as the posts.
Which material should I choose for my gate?
There are many materials that can meet your needs:
- PVC is lightweight and weather-resistant, does not rust, and does not require regular painting. The advantage is that it is also available in a wide range of colours and finishes to suit all tastes.
- Aluminium is a good choice for its light weight, corrosion resistance, and customisation options, offering a balance between durability and aesthetics.
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