This is one of the first decisions to make, and normally your driveway makes it for you. Here's how to tell which way to go.
At a glance
| Swing gates | Sliding gate | |
|---|---|---|
| Space needed | Room behind the gate for the leaves to swing | A clear run beside the opening |
| Sloping driveway | Can be a problem if it rises behind the gate | Usually fine |
| Short driveway | Gates can swing into parked cars | Ideal |
| Complete installation | from £2,500 | from £4,000 |
| Looks | Classic, especially in pairs | Sleek, modern |
| Wind | Solid leaves catch the wind | Copes better |
| Security | Good | Very good – hard to force |
| Groundwork | Posts; foundation boxes for underground motors | Motor plinth and level track |
Sliding or Swing Electric Gates?
The choice between sliding and swing gates usually comes down to space. Swing gates need room to open inwards; sliding gates need a clear run beside the opening about as long as the gate.
Slopes matter too. A drive that rises behind the gate often rules out swing gates unless they're hung on rising hinges, while a sliding gate runs along the boundary and isn't affected.
We'll measure up and tell you honestly which will work best on your entrance.
Comparing Automatic Gate Types in Carlisle
Cost is part of the picture. Complete swing gate installations typically cost £2,500 – £9,000+, while sliding gates typically cost £4,000 – £10,000+ because of the track and groundwork.
Both can be made secure and both can look great. Sliding gates are very hard to force; swing gates are the classic choice for period homes.
Whichever you choose, we fit CAME automation and force test the gates to BS EN 12453.
Choose swing gates if…
- you have plenty of level space behind the gates
- you want a traditional look, or a pair of gates suits the house
- there's no room along the boundary for a gate to slide into
Choose a sliding gate if…
- your driveway is short, or you park close behind the gate
- the driveway slopes up behind the gate
- the entrance is wide, busy or exposed to the wind
- you have a clear, fairly level run beside the opening
What if neither fits?
There's normally an answer:
- Bi-folding gates fold in half as they open, needing less swing space
- Unequal leaves – one large, one small – fit awkward spaces
- Rising hinges lift a swing gate as it opens over a slight slope
- Cantilever sliding gates avoid a track across uneven ground
Still not sure?
Send me a couple of photos of the driveway, taken from the road and from inside, and I'll tell you which I'd go for. Call or WhatsApp Adrian on 07854 037752.
Questions people ask me
Are sliding gates cheaper than swing gates?
Normally not. A complete sliding gate installation typically starts from £4,000, against £2,500 for swing gates, because of the track and groundwork.
Can swing gates open outwards?
Only where they won't swing over a footpath or road, and it needs extra safety measures. Inwards is normally better.
Which is more reliable?
Both are reliable when they're fitted properly and serviced. Sliding gates need their track kept clear.