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Measuring guide
How to Choose the Right Sliding Gate for Your Property
Thinking about installing a sliding gate to update your entrance, save space, or add security to your property? This guide walks you through how to measure for a sliding gate step by step, highlights common mistakes to avoid, and helps you select the best gate for your outdoor space.
1. Measure the Width Between Posts
Measure the inside distance between the two posts at three different heights:
Why three measurements? Posts may not be perfectly parallel—especially on older installations or if they've shifted over time.
Record the smallest of the three measurements: this is the usable width for your gate.
If the difference between measurements is more than 1 cm (about 3/8"), check that the posts are plumb before installation. For example: If you measure 3.03 m at the top, 3.01 m in the middle, and 3.02 m at the bottom, use 3.01 m as your reference width.
2. Measure the Height from the Ground to the Bottom of the Post Cap
Next, measure the total available height from the finished ground level up to the underside of the post cap (or cover).
- • Take this measurement on both sides, as the ground may slope slightly.
- • The final gate height should be 2 to 4 inches (5 to 10 cm) less than the available height to allow clearance for hinges and smooth operation.
Check that the rack and motor (if using automation) will fit without interfering with the gate height.
3. Plan for Side Clearance
A sliding gate opens to the side, so you need enough space on one side of the opening.
Clearance = gate width + at least 20 inches (50 cm).
This extra space allows for the rack, motor (if automated), and end stops.
4. Check Ground Level and Alignment
Before installing a sliding gate, make sure the ground is level and solid. If the surface isn't even, the gate may drag, get stuck, or wear out faster.
The ground should be hard and free of holes or bumps—even small uneven spots can cause issues. If needed, pour a straight concrete pad (called a threshold) along the full width of the opening.
If your driveway slopes, consider a cantilever gate (which doesn't require a ground track) or adjust the concrete to create a level base. Always check with a laser or bubble level before installation to ensure everything is straight—this will help your gate slide smoothly and last longer.
Summary:
Measure the width between posts at the top, middle, and bottom. Use the smallest value.
Measure the gate height from the ground to the post cap.
Allow for side clearance at least equal to the gate width plus 20 inches (50 cm).
Check that the ground is level and stable. Install a concrete threshold if needed.
If you have any doubts, consult a professional for on-site measuring—it's the best way to ensure a perfect fit.
A question about this product?
Brest Aluminum Sliding Gate 3.5m or 4m Opening - Height 1.7m - Gray
Explore our range of gates and garden gates designed to enhance the security of your property. The BREST aluminum gates and garden gates come ready to install for your convenience. You can also find our BREST swing gate and matching garden gate in the same collection.
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 sliding aluminum gate stands out for its unique design. Combining both security and style, this aluminum gate offers all the benefits of aluminum construction.
Its solid panel design provides privacy while the subtle open lines add a distinctive touch. Available as either a swing or sliding gate, you can choose between manual operation or add automation with our gate opener. The anthracite gray finish (RAL 7016) gives this range a modern, elegant look—perfect for residential fencing projects.
Enjoy peace of mind in your yard. The aluminum sliding gate is low maintenance and built to withstand harsh weather. For added convenience, you can equip your gate with a compatible sliding gate motor. Each gate is ready to install and comes with all necessary hardware for straightforward setup.
QUALITY LABELS:
Qualicoat | Qualimarine | Qualanod
This kit includes
x1
Guide bracket
x1
Gate stop
x1
Receiver latch
x1
European cylinder lock with black powder-coated aluminum handle
x1
Galvanized steel screw-on track
Benefits of the BREST sliding aluminum gate
- Ready to install: quick and easy setup
- Weather and corrosion resistant
- 10-year warranty: superior quality
Product details
Manual gate, can be motorized on the lower rail
Clearance: 3.5m and 4.0m
Opening: reversible (left or right)
Reinforced lower rail
Weather and corrosion resistant
Aluminum: mortise and tenon welded construction for strength
Lightweight profile
Powder-coated finish
Sanded and chemically treated
Factory pre-assembled
How to install a sliding aluminum gate
First, measure the opening for your sliding gate, whether manual or motorized. Add approximately 20 inches (about 50 cm) of clearance to the width between your posts. Our aluminum gates are available in various widths to fit different property layouts.
Available colours
Gray 7016
Data sheet
- Width
- 3m50 ou 4m00
- Height
- 1m70
- Post profile
- 80x45
- Rail Size
- 80x35
- Infill type
- Solid 150x16x1.2
- Thickness
- 2 mm
- Material
- Aluminum
- Warranty
- 10 years
For a 13 ft opening, Cloture Discount offers sliding aluminum gates as well as barred gates designed for wider entrances. Aluminum gates are lightweight, weather-resistant, and can easily be fitted with an automatic gate opener. Barred gates are a good choice for industrial sites or large residential properties. You can choose between solid, semi-open, or open designs depending on your privacy and style preferences.
A sliding gate requires a significant amount of clear space along the fence line, equal to the full width of the gate—about 14.8 feet for a 13-foot gate. Installation involves masonry work to create a concrete foundation and set the ground track. Gate automation is often necessary for wider openings and adds to the overall cost. The area where the gate slides must always be kept clear to ensure smooth operation.
To keep your aluminum sliding gate in good condition, regularly clear the guide rail of leaves and gravel. Wash the gate surfaces with warm soapy water twice a year. Once a year, lubricate the rollers and check the gate alignment to ensure it slides smoothly and doesn't strain the gate motor.
All aluminum sliding gates in our gate range are designed to be motorized, thanks to a reinforced bottom rail made specifically for automation. The lightweight nature of aluminum makes it easier to install a gate opener and helps minimize wear on the system. Our models are compatible with various rack-and-pinion motors, so you can add automation even if you originally purchased a manual gate.
A sliding gate moves sideways along a track and doesn’t require space in front or behind the entrance. In contrast, a swing gate opens on hinges with two panels that need clear space to swing open. Sliding gates are ideal for sloped driveways or entrances close to the street, while swing gates need more room to operate but are generally more affordable to install.
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