There's something about a good timber gate. It suits country homes, period properties and modern houses alike, and it ages nicely if it's looked after.
Wooden gates start from around £2,500, depending on size, design and timber.
Built to stay straight
The biggest problem with wooden gates – especially once they're automated – is movement. Timber swells when it's wet and shrinks when it's dry, and a badly made gate twists, sags or drops. That puts strain on the motor and the hinges, and the gate stops closing properly.
So a good wooden gate needs:
- quality timber – a good hardwood, or properly treated softwood
- a strong frame with proper joints and bracing, so it doesn't drop at the far end
- heavy-duty hinges and solid posts
- a good finish, kept up every year or two
Styles
- solid boarded gates for full privacy
- framed, ledged and braced gates
- curved or arched tops
- five-bar and field gates for farms and country driveways
- matching pedestrian gates
Making them electric
Wooden gates automate well, as long as they're well built:
- Overground motors – the most common choice
- Underground motors – for a clean look
- Sliding automation – for sliding timber gates
I'll allow for the extra weight when the timber is wet, and for wind on solid gates.
Already have wooden gates?
If they're in good shape, I can probably automate them. See automating wooden and five-bar gates.
Looking after wooden gates
Re-oil or re-stain every year or two, keep the bottom of the gate clear of soil and wet leaves, and keep an eye on the hinges. Have the automation serviced once a year.
Call or WhatsApp Adrian on 07854 037752 for a price.
Questions people ask me
How much are wooden electric gates?
Timber gates start from around £2,500, and a complete electric swing gate installation typically starts from £2,500.
Do wooden gates last?
Yes, if they're well built from good timber and the finish is kept up.
Why did my old wooden gate stop closing properly?
Usually because it has dropped or twisted. See sagging or misaligned gates.