Buying Guide: Which Gates Should You Buy?

If you’ve decided to buy a new electric gate, you’re likely surprised at the sheer number of different options available to you. They come in all shapes and sizes and offer a range of features. We’ve put together this buying guide to help you choose the perfect gates for your property.
There are a number of reasons why you might want to install an electric gate. The biggest reason being security. Electric gates are highly secure, perfect for safeguarding your home. Additionally, electric gates offer improved privacy and even boost your home’s kerb appeal.
With over 20 years of experience across Gloucester and beyond, TPS Gates & Doors can help you find the perfect electric gates.
Key Considerations Before Buying a Gate
Property Type
The type of gate you buy will largely be determined by the type of property you own. For example, an urban home will require a different kind of gate when compared to a countryside estate or a commercial venue.
Level of Security Required
We all want to feel safe in our homes. However, if you require extra security measures to safeguard valuables, for instance, this is something to take into account when shopping for new entrance gates.
Space Available
Different gates operate in different ways. For example, some gates have sliding doors while others have swinging doors. Pay attention to and measure the available space on your property to ensure you buy gates that fit and don’t cause obstructions.
Budget & Materials
Setting yourself a budget limit can help prevent you from spending more than you can afford. Research material types used in gates and understand how these can affect the price. With careful planning, you’ll be able to make a cost effective purchase.
Automation v Manual Gates
Should you opt for automatic or manual gates? This is a key question and can have a big impact on the final price. Think about your property; would manual gates be practical or would automatic gates be more suitable?
Types of Electric Gates
TPS offers a range of high quality gate options. Including:
Wooden Electric Gates
If you’re looking for a natural, more traditional look, wooden electric gates could be the perfect choice. Despite a rustic, pastoral appearance, wooden garden gates come with modern trappings and can be automated with either underground or arm motors.
A wooden gate, particularly softwood gates or gates with a tongue and groove design, suits rural or heritage properties perfectly and will look fantastic paired with picket fencing. You can even change the appearance of wooden gates yourself by applying a new paint or stain. This makes a versatile choice that can be adapted to suit your unique preferences.
However, wood does require maintenance. You must be prepared to care for your gates to protect them from damage and degradation.
Metal Electric Gates
Metal electric gates are a classic choice. They can come in ornate designs or in a more minimal appearance. There are plenty of options, so take the time to browse and choose the right fit for your property.
Metal electric gates are renowned for their security attributes and long term durability. This makes them the perfect choice for larger estates or security-conscious homes. If you store valuables at home, metal electric gates can help safeguard your property and give you peace of mind. By choosing a powder-coated option, you can boost the longevity of your gates, saving you cash in the long run.
Aluminium Electric Gates
For a more modern option, aluminium electric gates can be a fantastic choice. These gates are lightweight and can be powder-coated in a wide variety of colours and textures. This makes them perfect for contemporary homes, and they can be customised to suit the style and décor of your property.
One of the biggest advantages offered by aluminium gates is that they are low-maintenance. This type of gate is corrosion-resistant and requires far less upkeep when compared to wooden gates, for example. If you’re a busy working professional looking for a gate that doesn’t need any special care, aluminium electric gates are the way to go.
Sliding Gates
Not all of us have a huge front garden with a long, expansive driveway. However, don’t assume that properties of standard sizes can’t have electric gates too.
Sliding gates feature doors that move from side to side, rather than from front to back. This makes them ideal for properties where space is more of a premium. They also work perfectly for sloped driveways, where standard swinging doors wouldn’t fit at all.
If you think that sliding gates can’t be automated, think again. In fact, sliding gates are often preferred when it comes to automation because of the simple, speedy mechanism.
Manual vs Automated Gates
So, why should you choose automated gates over manual gates? Modern electric gates have a lot to offer, not least convenience. No more getting out of your car on a wet, rainy night to open your driveway gates, simply press a button and wait for them to open for you. They offer improved safety, too, with remote access that ensures you’ll never leave and forget to close your gates.
If you’ve decided to purchase electric gates for your property, working with a specialist electric gate installation company like TPS is essential. We’ve been in business for over two decades and know everything there is to know about electric gates.
Why Choose TPS Electric Gates?
Why should you choose TPS Electric Gates for your purchase and installation? We offer a customer design and installation service; we can adapt to suit the unique needs and requirements of you and your property.
We use only the highest quality materials across all of our products. From aluminium driveway gates to wooden side gates, our products are built to last. Our service doesn’t stop after installation; we offer ongoing maintenance and aftercare support to ensure your gates are working perfectly.
For local expertise and exceptional service across Gloucestershire and the surrounding areas, speak to TPS. With our gates, your property will be more secure and more visually appealing.