Measuring guide
Key Steps and Tips for Installing Your Gate
Looking to install a gate to secure your property and enhance your outdoor space? Accurate measurements are crucial before you buy. This guide walks you through how to measure for your gate, choose between a swing or sliding model, and avoid common mistakes.
1. Measure the Width Between Posts

Measure the inside distance between your two gate posts at three different heights:
Why three measurements? Posts may not be perfectly parallel—especially on older installations or those that have 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, check that your posts are plumb before installing. 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 Underside of the Post Cap
Next, measure the total height available from the finished ground up to the bottom of the post cap (or pillar cover).
- • Measure 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 opening.
Make sure the rack and gate opener will fit without interfering with the gate height.

3. Special Case: If You Don't Have Posts Yet
If you're building your entryway from scratch:
- • Allow for a total gap = gate opening + 3 to 4 inches (8 to 10 cm) (for hinges and hardware),
- • Position your posts based on the type of opening (inward or outward),
4. Check That the Ground Is Level
The ground should be flat and level across the full width of the gate.
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 inch per yard (2 cm per meter) can cause problems when opening the gate.
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, leaving 2 to 4 inches (5 to 10 cm) for clearance.
Check that the ground is level and your posts are plumb before installation.
Consider gate automation when measuring to avoid surprises during installation.
Choose your gate style to fit your property: swing gates for wide, straight entries; sliding gates for tighter spaces or sloped ground.
If you have any doubts, consult a professional for on-site measurements to ensure a perfect fit.
A question about this product?
Bordeaux Aluminum Swing Gate 3.00m or 3.50m Wide - 1.70m High - Gray
The Bordeaux aluminum swing gate is designed to enhance security and add value to your entryway. Available with manual operation or compatible with a gate opener, this model is ideal for driveways that accommodate double gates. For a coordinated look, pair it with the matching Bordeaux garden gate or opt for the Bordeaux sliding gate.
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
Choosing the right gate is an important step for your property. It's the first thing visitors see and sets the tone for your home. The Bordeaux aluminum swing gate is a reliable choice, featuring a modern anthracite gray finish that complements any exterior style.
Its clean, contemporary design fits seamlessly with a variety of landscapes. This aluminum gate also provides privacy, shielding your yard from unwanted views—an ideal solution for urban settings.
Unlike openwork gates, it offers effective privacy screening. Aluminum is a durable, low-maintenance material that remains lightweight, making installation straightforward. The gate comes factory pre-assembled for easy setup.
QUALITY LABELS:
Qualicoat | Qualimarine | Qualanod
Kit includes
x1
End stop
x2
Post caps
x2
Hinges
x2
Gate pivots
x1
European cylinder lock with black powder-coated aluminum handle
x1
Cardin BLGRIFFE24TM motor - optional
Benefits of the Bordeaux aluminum swing gate
- Ready to install: quick and convenient setup
- Weather and corrosion resistant
- 10-year warranty: premium quality
Additional information
Manual gate, can be motorized on the lower rail
Opening: right-hand push
Reinforced lower rail
Resistant to weather and corrosion
Aluminum construction: mortise and tenon welded assembly for added strength
Lightweight profile
Powder-coated finish
Sanded and chemically treated
Delivered pre-assembled from the factory
How to install an aluminum swing gate?
First, measure the opening for your aluminum swing gate. Be sure to account for clearance between the gate and your posts. Our aluminum gates are available in various widths to suit different entryways.
Available colours
Gray 7016
Data sheet
- Width
- 3 ft 11 in or 11 ft 6 in
- Post profile
- 80x45 mm
- Rail Size
- 80x35 mm
- Bar Spacing
- 70x16 mm
Download
Notice de pose - Portail battant aluminium
Download (1.61MB)
Plan technique - Portail battant Bordeaux 3m00
Download (20.48KB)
Fiche technique - Portail battant Bordeaux
Download (581.96KB)
Plan de maçonnerie - Portail battant
Download (211.06KB)
Plan technique - Portail battant Bordeaux 3m50.pdf
Download (83.43KB)
The Bordeaux model stands out with its solid, modern design and is available as either a swing or sliding gate. It comes in widths of 3m00 or 3m50 and has a height of 1m70, finished in anthracite gray RAL 7016. Made from aluminum with mortise and tenon welded assembly, it offers excellent strength and weather resistance. This gate is compatible with automation systems and is well-suited for residential driveways.
Yes, the Bordeaux gate is compatible with gate openers right from the start, thanks to its reinforced bottom rail designed to support an automatic opener. You can install a gate motor immediately or add one later without extra preparation. This design allows for either manual or automated operation, whether you choose a swing or sliding version.
To keep your Bordeaux model gate in good condition, clean it regularly with warm soapy water and a soft sponge, then rinse with clean water. Avoid using abrasive cleaners or pressure washers, as these can damage the anthracite gray finish. Cleaning twice a year is usually enough. Pay special attention to the hinges and lock—lubricate them once a year to ensure smooth operation.
Aluminum gates offer excellent resistance to weather and corrosion, ensuring long-lasting performance. This lightweight material makes manual operation easy and is sturdy enough to support gate automation. Maintenance is simple—just clean with soapy water, with no special treatments needed. Our aluminum gate range, including the Bordeaux model, features a modern, stylish design that complements a variety of architectural styles.
Measure the width between the posts at three different heights and use the smallest measurement to ensure a proper fit. For the height, measure from the ground up to the bottom of the post cap, then subtract at least 4 inches. Also, make sure there’s enough clearance for both gate leaves to open fully—typically about a 90° swing on each side.
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