Measuring guide
Tips and Key Steps for Installing Your Gate Outdoors
Looking to install a gate to secure your property and enhance your outdoor space? Before you buy, accurate measurements are essential. This guide walks you through how to measure for your gate, choose the right type (swing or sliding), and avoid common mistakes.
1. Measuring the Width Between Posts

Measure the inside distance between your two posts at three different heights:
Why three measurements? Posts aren’t always perfectly parallel—especially on older installations or if there’s been some shifting over time.
Record the smallest of the three measurements: this is your usable gate width.
If the difference between measurements is more than 3/8", check the alignment of your posts before installing. For example: If you measure 119.3" at the top, 118.5" in the middle, and 118.9" at the bottom, use 118.5" as your reference width.
2. Measuring the Height from Ground to Under the Post Cap
Next, measure the total available height from the finished ground to the bottom of the post cap (or cover).
- • Measure on both sides, as the ground may slope slightly.
- • The final gate height should be 2" to 4" less than the available height to allow clearance for hinges and opening.
Check that the rack and gate opener can be installed without interfering with the final height.

3. Special Case: If You Don’t Have Posts Yet
If you’re building your entryway from scratch:
- • Plan for a total gap = gate opening + 3" to 4" (for hinges and hardware),
- • Position your posts based on the type of gate opening (inward or outward),
4. Check the Level of the Ground
The ground should be flat and level across the entire gate width.
If there’s a slope:
- • You can open the gate outward (if allowed by local regulations),
- • Or choose a custom model with adjustable hinges or an asymmetrical swing gate (one leaf smaller than the other).
Pro tip:
Use a spirit level or laser level to spot any height differences.
A slope greater than 3/4" per 3 feet can cause issues with gate operation.
In Summary:
Measure the width between your posts at three heights (top, middle, bottom) for accuracy.
Note the available height from the ground to the post cap, allowing 2" to 4" of clearance.
Check that the ground is level and posts are plumb before installation.
Consider gate automation when measuring to avoid surprises during installation.
Choose your gate type based on your layout: swing gates for wide, straight entries; sliding gates for tighter spaces or sloped ground.
If you’re unsure, consult a professional for on-site measuring—this ensures the best possible result.
A question about this product?
Brest Aluminum Swing Gate 3.00m or 3.50m Wide - 1.70m High - Gray
Our range of gates and pedestrian gates features a stylish design to help secure your property. The BREST aluminum gates and pedestrian gates come ready to install.
Choose between swing or sliding options, available in manual versions and compatible with our automatic gate openers for easy motorization.
Guaranteed cheapest product on the web
Found it cheaper elsewhere? We'll refund the difference.
Made in
France & Europe
Flexible Payment Options
10-Year
Anti-Corrosion Warranty
Home delivery
or in-store pickup
The Brest aluminum swing gate stands out for its unique design. Combining security and style, this type of aluminum gate offers all the benefits of aluminum construction. Its solid infill provides privacy while the open lines add a distinctive touch. Finished in anthracite gray (RAL 7016), this gate brings a modern, elegant look to any residential fencing project.
Enjoy peace of mind in your yard. The aluminum swing gate is low-maintenance and highly weather-resistant. For added convenience, you can equip your gate with a compatible swing gate opener. The gate is delivered ready to install and includes all necessary accessories for straightforward assembly.
QUALITY LABELS:
Qualicoat | Qualimarine | Qualanod
This kit includes
x1
Gate stop
x2
Post caps
x2
Hinges (bottom pivot)
x2
Gate hinges
x1
European cylinder lock with black powder-coated aluminum handle
x1
Cardin BLGRIFFE24TM motor - optional
Benefits of the Brest aluminum swing gate
- Ready to install: quick and straightforward setup
- Resistant to weather and corrosion
- 10-year warranty: premium quality
Additional information
Manual and motor-ready gate
Opening: right-hand push
Weather and corrosion resistant
Aluminum: mortise and tenon welded assembly for enhanced strength
Lightweight profile
Powder-coated finish
Sanded and chemically treated
Factory pre-assembled
How to install an aluminum swing gate?
First, measure the opening for your aluminum swing gate. Be sure to allow for clearance between the posts and the gate. Our aluminum gates are available in various widths to fit different layouts and property types.
Available colours
Gray 7016
Data sheet
- Width
- 3 ft 11 in or 11 ft 6 in
Download
The Brest model stands out with its modern design, combining solid panels with a few open lines for a unique look. Available as either a swing or sliding gate, this aluminum gate offers privacy while adding a distinctive decorative touch. With a height of 1.7m and widths of 3.0m or 3.5m, it's well-suited for residential driveways and can be motorized if needed.
The Brest motorized gate is designed to work with our specific automation kits, thanks to its reinforced bottom rail. For a swing gate, you can use either an articulated arm or linear actuator opener, depending on your setup. For a sliding gate, you'll need a rack-and-pinion motor that runs along the track. All installation steps follow industry best practices, and the kit includes all necessary accessories to make assembly straightforward and ensure maximum safety in daily use.
The Brest model requires very little maintenance thanks to its powder-coated aluminum finish. Simply clean it twice a year, before summer and winter, using warm water and mild soap. Avoid abrasive cleaners and pressure washers, as these can damage the protective coating.
The Brest gate is designed to fit a variety of post types, thanks to its modular construction. Whether your posts are masonry, concrete, or aluminum, this gate model works well for both new installations and existing setups. Its optimized weight allows for secure mounting on standard posts without the need for extra reinforcement, and the custom sizing ensures a precise fit between your posts.
The Brest gate is built for long-lasting performance, thanks to its powder-coated aluminum construction that provides excellent corrosion resistance. This material stands up well to a wide range of weather conditions, from freezing temperatures to intense heat, without warping or losing its shape. Its mortise and tenon welded assembly ensures strong structural integrity, even under daily use and high winds.
The weather resistance is further enhanced by the powder coating, which creates a durable barrier against moisture, rain, and UV rays. Combined with thorough sanding and chemical treatment before coating, this process helps the gate maintain its appearance and function over time. Since aluminum is naturally rustproof, the gate won’t corrode and keeps its look, even in coastal or humid environments.
The Brest gate comes in two standard opening widths: 3.00m and 3.50m, with a standard height of 1.70m. This range is designed to fit most residential gate setups and meets common needs for swing gate openings. Dimensions are measured between posts to help you select the right size for your space. If you prefer a side-opening system, you can also choose the sliding gate from the same range.
Yes, the Brest model is also available as an aluminum pedestrian gate, allowing you to create a coordinated look for your entrance. The Brest pedestrian gate features a 1m (39.4 in) wide opening and stands 1.7m (67 in) tall, matching the same modern design with solid panels and open lines. Pairing the gate and pedestrian gate ensures a consistent appearance, while offering the same benefits: easy installation, weather resistance, and an anthracite gray RAL 7016 finish.
Yes, the Brest model is also offered as a sliding gate with 3.5m or 4m openings. This sliding option is ideal for properties with limited space or a sloped driveway. The Brest sliding gate features the same distinctive design and technical specifications as the swing version, including a reinforced bottom rail for motorization. It installs on a track and can open to the left or right, depending on your layout.
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