Choosing the right electric gate for your property involves more than selecting a stylish design or the latest automation. It’s also about making a smart investment in your home’s value, security, and convenience. But with so many designs, materials, and automation options available, it can be overwhelming to know where to start.
At Windlesham Gates, we believe that there is an ideal electric gate for every property. With over a decade of experience as a leading electric gate installer in Surrey, we understand the subtle considerations that go into creating the perfect secure, elegant, and durable entrance.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to choose the right electric gate for your property, covering everything from layout and gate types to materials, planning permission, and smart automation. Whether you’re planning a new build, upgrading an existing gate, or seeking more sophisticated access control, this article is your starting point for making an informed decision.
Assessing Your Property and Needs
Before diving into styles or finishes, start with a clear understanding of your space and requirements:
- Driveway layout: Is it long or short, wide or narrow, flat or sloped?
- Available space: Can a gate swing open freely, or is a sliding mechanism better?
- Access needs: Will you need pedestrian entry, or just for vehicles?
- Privacy and security goals: Are you shielding your property from the road or deterring intruders?
- Aesthetics: Do you want your gate to blend with period architecture or make a modern statement?
- Budget: Account for initial installation, long-term maintenance, and potential upgrades.
Tip: Taking a few photos of your entrance and noting dimensions will help when speaking to gate professionals.
Types of Electric Gates Explained
Sliding Electric Gates
Sliding electric gates are an excellent solution for homes with shorter or sloping driveways where traditional swing gates may not open properly. These gates glide horizontally along a rail or a cantilever track, which allows them to work effectively even in tight driveways. They do require lateral space for the gate to retract, and the track must be kept clear of debris in order to keep them functioning optimally.
However, their smooth operation, reliability, and enhanced security features make them a favourite for urban homes and properties with limited turning space.
Sectional Sliding/Around the Corner Gates
For more complex or uniquely shaped entrances, we often recommend sectional sliding gates or around the corner gates. These advanced gate systems consist of multiple panels that slide neatly around the edge of a boundary wall or fence, making them ideal for properties where space constraints prevent conventional gate movements.
Although they involve higher installation costs due to the complexity of installation and the specialised hardware required, these gates are not only visually striking but also supremely practical. Whether your driveway curves or sits beside a stone wall, a sectional or around-the-corner solution can be tailored precisely to the available space without compromising on style or convenience.
Automatic Swing Gates
Automatic swing gates offer a classic, welcoming appearance and are a popular choice for period-style homes or rural estates. Swing gates open inward or outward on hinges (much like a door), offering a timeless elegance that suits many traditional entrances.
However, they do require ample clearance to operate effectively and are best suited to flat driveways with enough room to accommodate their arc of motion.
Choosing the Right Gate Material
Wooden Gates
Timber offers a timeless aesthetic, perfect for country homes, period properties, or anyone seeking a natural finish. Custom wooden electric gates offer warmth, tradition, and curb appeal, but their longevity depends heavily on timber quality.
That’s why we recommend Accoya wood gates. Accoya is a sustainably sourced, modified softwood engineered for exceptional stability and durability. It resists warping, swelling, shrinking, and rot, even in damp British weather.
This makes it ideal for gate automation, where movement precision is key. Unlike traditional hardwoods, Accoya holds paint exceptionally well and requires minimal upkeep. As the first UK company to manufacture Accoya electric gates, Windlesham Gates has over a decade of experience crafting Accoya gates that combine natural beauty with modern performance.
Metal Gates (Aluminium, Steel, Wrought Iron)
Metal electric gates are favoured for their strength, security, and sleek aesthetics. Aluminium gates are rust-proof, lightweight, sustainable, and highly customisable, making them perfect for automated systems. Galvanised steel offers robust security and can be customised with powder-coated finishes for a modern or industrial look, while wrought iron remains a top choice for traditional properties, offering classic design and durability.
All of our bespoke metal gates are built to last and withstand the elements, making them a smart investment for those seeking a low-maintenance yet visually striking option. Whether your home is contemporary or traditional in style, we tailor every metal gate to suit your specific property and driveway.
Mixed Materials & Composites
These gates combine the best of both worlds, with metal structure for strength and timber or wood-effect panels for aesthetic appeal. While not as authentic as Accoya wood gates, composite options still provide excellent durability, low maintenance, and ample design options.
Automation and Access Control Options
A major consideration when deciding on the right electric gate for your property is the level of automation you need. Today, gate automation has evolved far beyond simple remote controls. Smart gate access systems offer you complete operational control via smartphone apps, voice commands, and even vehicle recognition.
Whether you’re looking for simple keypad access, a video intercom for visitor screening, or a fully integrated system connected to your home’s CCTV and alarm, Windlesham Gates offers extensive automation and access control options designed to enhance your property’s security and improve ease of use. Features like obstacle detecting sensors, slow-start motors, and manual override ensure safe and smooth gate operation, even in the event of a power failure.
We can also integrate gates with your existing virtual assistants like Google Home or Amazon Alexa for voice-controlled, hands-free automation, making your driveway as smart as your living room.
Legal and Planning Considerations in the UK
One area many homeowners underestimate is the regulatory side of electric gate installation. It’s important to be aware of electric gate planning permission in the UK, especially if your property is in a conservation area or is listed. Planning consent is also required if your gate exceeds two metres in height, or one metre if it faces a public road.
Additionally, all automated gates must comply with UK safety standards, specifically BS EN 12453 and its amendments. These regulations cover crucial elements such as anti-crush protection, force limitation, and emergency release systems, all of which help to avoid crushing, shearing, or trapping hazards. Working with a qualified professional like Windlesham Gates ensures your installation is legally compliant, safe, and future-proof.
Working with a Professional Installer
DIY gate installation can be tempting, but electric gates require expertise in automation, safety systems, and structural engineering.
Why Choose Windlesham Gates?
At Windlesham Gates, we combine expert craftsmanship with cutting-edge automation to deliver custom electric gates that are not only secure but also enhance the beauty of your home, estate, or commercial property. From our design studio to fabrication and installation teams, every project is handled in-house, ensuring quality at every stage.
We have been the trusted electric gate installer in Surrey and the local area for over a decade, offering everything from automatic swing gates and sliding electric gates to around the corner gates and full smart home integrations. With ongoing servicing and maintenance support, we’re here to help long after your gate has been installed.
Key Questions to Ask Your Installer
- What’s included in the quote (for example, motors, safety features, groundwork)?
- Can you offer a maintenance plan or service contract?
- What warranty do you provide?
- Can I customise my gates to match my property?
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What’s the best electric gate for a narrow or awkwardly shaped driveway?
A: Sliding electric gates or sectional sliding gates are typically the best options, as they don’t require space to swing open.
Q: Will I need planning permission to install an electric gate?
A: You may need electric gate planning permission in the UK if your gate is over 2 metres high or over 1 metre and faces a public road. Always check with your local authority before proceeding.
Q: How long do Accoya gates last?
A: Accoya gates can last 50 years or more, offering exceptional resistance to rot and weathering, with minimal maintenance requirements compared to traditional wood.
Q: Can I open my electric gate during a power cut?
A: Yes, all our systems come with a manual release mechanism so you can operate the gate safely in emergencies.
Q: Can I customise my gate design?
A: Every gate we build is custom-made to match your preferences, whether you’re interested in modern sectional sliding gates, ornate wrought iron, or classic custom wooden electric gates.
Enhance Your Home with the Help of a Leading Electric Gate Installer in Surrey
Understanding how to choose the right electric gate for your property is key to ensuring a long-lasting, reliable, and visually appealing addition to your home. From gate type and materials to automation and legal compliance, there are many moving parts, but with expert guidance from a top electric gate installer in Surrey, the process doesn’t have to be overwhelming.
At Windlesham Gates, we take pride in guiding our clients through every stage, from design consultation to full installation and aftercare. Whether you’re looking for automatic swing gates, sliding electric gates, or any other electric gate style, we’re ready to bring your vision to life.
Contact our team today to receive a no-obligation quote and discover how we can create an entrance for your home that’s as practical as it is beautiful.
