The entrance to a property does far more than provide access. It sets the tone for what lies beyond, influences first impressions, and often reflects the character of the home itself. While the design of the gate is an important focal point, the supporting structure around it should never be overlooked. Brick columns for gates bring together strength, elegance, and permanence, making them one of the most effective ways to frame and support an automated entrance.
There are many reasons to invest in bespoke brickwork. From a practical perspective, brick gate posts provide solid foundations for electric gate systems, particularly when handling wide or heavy gates. Decorative brick gate pillars add symmetry and stature, giving a driveway entrance a sense of balance and sophistication. Full brick wall driveway entrances also enhance privacy and security, while adding long-term value to your property.
At Windlesham Gates, we design and install brickwork piers, gate posts, and complete driveway entrances that are tailored to complement each property’s architecture. By blending craftsmanship with modern automation, we ensure every entrance is as functional as it is impressive. Here’s everything you need to know when choosing brickwork for your electric gates.
Why Choose Brick Columns for Gates?
A common question we hear from homeowners is: “Should I build brick pillars for my electric gate?”. The answer depends on your priorities, but for many premium homes, they are the ideal foundation.
Brick gate posts serve a practical role by anchoring automation equipment securely, especially when supporting heavy or wide gates. Their structural integrity ensures smooth and reliable operation for decades to come. At the same time, they provide a visual balance that enhances the symmetry and grandeur of an entrance.
Brick gate pillars are slightly different, in that they are usually larger and more decorative than posts, and often have a hollow core for structural reinforcement or for housing gate mechanisms.
From a financial perspective, investing in brickwork pays dividends in kerb appeal. A well-proportioned brick wall with a gate can significantly boost the resale value of a property, particularly in competitive markets across the South East and London.
Whether you’re installing new gates or upgrading existing ones, brick gate pillars embody durability and offer timeless appeal that will outlast most alternatives.
Design and Customisation Options
No two properties are the same, and at Windlesham Gates we believe your entrance should reflect your home’s character. That is why we specialise in creating bespoke brick gate posts, piers, and gate surrounds that are carefully designed to complement your property style and elevate its entrance.
When planning your brick columns for gates, we take into account a range of design details:
- Brick selection: Matching existing masonry is crucial for a cohesive aesthetic. Whether your home features classic red clay, mellow London stock, or contemporary buff tones, we source bricks that seamlessly tie new work to old.
- Coping stones: Used to top a wall, these finishing elements are more than decorative. Sandstone, granite, or concrete coping stones protect brickwork piers from weather damage while giving them a distinctive, visually appealing crown.
- Integration: Your brick gate pillars should not stand in isolation. We design them to blend naturally with adjoining fences, railings, or full-height brick walls, creating a unified boundary that frames your gates beautifully.
The flexibility of brickwork means that no matter the style of your property, there is a solution that will enhance rather than detract from its character.
Styles to Suit Every UK Property
Brickwork is one of the most versatile materials available, offering an extraordinary range of finishes. The style of your brick columns and brick wall driveway entrances can either reinforce classic heritage or introduce modern minimalism.
Traditionalists often opt for warm red bricks, ideal for countryside estates or period homes. These exude solidity and tradition, grounding your entrance in timeless design. For those in urban or historic settings, London stock brick remains a popular choice. With a distinctive yellow colour and weathered appearance, it was the principal building material for Georgian properties in the capital.
For more contemporary projects, a rendered and painted finish can completely alter the look of brick gate posts. White, grey, or even black render creates a sleek, minimalist impression, particularly when paired with modern steel or aluminium gates. This approach works especially well when incorporating a brick wall with a gate, giving you both privacy and architectural definition.
Brick Columns vs Metal Posts
Some homeowners debate whether brick gate posts or metal posts are better suited to their entrance. Both options have their place, but the decision usually rests on the type of statement you wish to make.
Brick columns are substantial and enduring. They provide unmatched durability, a classic aesthetic, and the capacity to integrate cabling for automation discreetly. For anyone seeking an entrance that combines long-term resilience with elegance, brickwork piers remain the superior choice.
Metal posts, usually fabricated in steel or aluminium, are well-suited to contemporary gates. They are slim, clean-lined, and often more cost-effective. However, they lack the visual weight and permanence of brickwork.
How Much Do Brick Columns for Gates Cost to Build?
One of the first questions homeowners often ask is “how much do brick gate pillars cost in the UK?”. The answer varies depending on the design, the size of the structure, and the materials chosen.
As a general guide, a single brick gate post will usually begin at around £600 to £1,200, while a pair of larger brickwork piers with coping stones and built-in conduits for automation typically starts from £2,000.
When it comes to full brick wall driveway entrances, the price is influenced by factors such as the overall length, the height, and the chosen finish, meaning costs can vary significantly from project to project.
There are other considerations that affect pricing as well. Soil conditions and the required depth of the foundations can influence labour and material costs, while the choice of bricks has an impact too, with reclaimed or specialist types often commanding a higher price.
Additional finishes such as render, decorative coping stones, or integrated lighting will also affect the final figure. However, many homeowners view this as a worthwhile investment, not only for the added durability but also for the lasting value and kerb appeal brickwork brings to a property.
Key Considerations Before Building
At Windlesham Gates, we approach every project with careful planning to ensure the results meet both practical and aesthetic expectations. There are several essential aspects to address before constructing brick gate posts or a full brick wall driveway entrance:
- Foundations: Strong, stable footings are essential. Without them, even the finest brickwork can shift or crack over time. This is particularly important for posts or pillars used to support heavy electric gates, which can exert significant pressure on the structure.
- Automation planning: We incorporate conduits into the brick pillars from the outset. This allows us to discreetly route wiring and cabling for motors, intercoms, sensors, and lighting.
- Planning permission: In most cases, you will not require formal permission for brick columns under 2 metres in height, provided they are not directly adjacent to a highway. However, if your property is listed or lies within a conservation area, permissions may be needed. Our team can guide you through this process.
Addressing these factors early prevents complications and ensures a smooth, efficient installation.
FAQs
Q: Can you retrofit brick piers to an existing gate?
A: Yes, in many cases. We often build brick gate posts around or alongside an existing system, provided the foundation and space allow for it.
Q: Do you need planning permission for brick gate pillars in the UK?
A: If the gate and pillars are under 2 metres and not facing a highway, you typically won’t need planning permission. We can help confirm your specific requirements.
Q: How long do brick gate pillars last?
A: When constructed properly, brick gate pillars can last over 50 years with minimal maintenance — far longer than timber or lightweight metal alternatives.
Ready to Upgrade Your Entrance?
Your entrance is the first impression visitors and passers-by will have of your property. It deserves to be more than an afterthought. By choosing bespoke brickwork as the foundation for your electric gates, you are investing in craftsmanship, durability, and design expertise.
Whether you are seeking decorative brick gate pillars to complement your gate’s aesthetics, or a brand new brick wall and gate to redefine the boundaries of your home, the team at Windlesham Gates will work with you from initial concept to final installation. Every detail, from brick choice to coping stone selection, is handled with attention to detail and care.
If you are ready to enhance your home with beautiful brickwork, contact us today. Together, we will create an entrance that combines strength, elegance, and cutting-edge automation for decades to come.
