Electric gates are well-known for their many benefits, including enhancing home security, making access control more convenient, and boosting curb appeal.
However, finding the perfect gate solution for homes with narrow, irregularly shaped, or space-restricted driveways can be challenging.
Traditional swing gates require significant clearance to pivot open, making them impractical for such properties, but sliding gates offer a functional, stylish, and secure alternative.
In this article, the experts from Windlesham Gates will explore how electric sliding driveway gates work, why they are the ideal choice for properties with limited space, and the many other benefits of sliding gates for driveways.
How Do Sliding Gates Work?
Unlike conventional swing gates, which require a large clearance space to open inward or outward, sliding gates for driveways operate by moving horizontally along a track or a cantilever system.
- Track System – The gate runs on a dedicated, ground-level rail embedded into the driveway entrance. This “track” guides small wheels attached to the bottom of the gate, allowing it to open in a smooth, controlled manner. While stable and cost-effective, this option does require mostly level terrain, and regular cleaning to prevent any detritus from obstructing movement.
- Cantilever System: Instead of a ground track, cantilever sliding gates are suspended above the ground and supported by rollers. This makes them suitable for more uneven surfaces, areas prone to debris accumulation, or driveways with slight slopes, although they are not as visually sleek and elegant as gates with track systems.
Both simple yet innovative mechanisms ensure that the sliding driveway gate moves parallel to the boundary wall, allowing for efficient space utilisation without obstructing vehicles or pedestrians.
The UK Driveway Problem – and How Sliding Driveway Gates Can Solve It
It is not uncommon for UK homes to have small, narrow or awkwardly shaped driveways. Many historic streets and period houses were built before cars were invented, meaning driveways were not originally designed to accommodate modern vehicle sizes. Older properties may also have more irregular plot shapes, resulting in driveways with awkward angles or limited space.
In areas with controlled parking zones, homeowners often need to create off-road parking solutions, even if space is tight. Similarly, in built-up town centres and urban areas like London, space has long been at a premium. As a result, many homes have narrow frontages or shared access points that restrict the size of their driveways.
With an average of 1.22 cars per English household, multiple-car households often require driveways that accommodate as many vehicles as possible.
Homeowners with these issues often believe that their space is not sufficient for a driveway gate – but electric sliding driveway gates offer a game-changing solution.
Maximising Driveway Space with Sliding Gates
Since sliding electric gates move sideways along the property boundary, they do not encroach on your driveway space when opening. Not needing to account for gate clearance maximises the space available in front of your home.
Sliding driveway gates are therefore particularly ideal for:
- Properties with multiple vehicles that need to be able to park closer to the gate without restricting access.
- Homes located on busy streets where slow, inward-opening gates could obstruct traffic.
- Narrow or irregular driveway entrances where swing gates would be impractical.
- Driveways with landscaping features close to the entrance.
Other Benefits of Electric Sliding Driveway Gates
1. Enhanced Security
Security is a top concern for homeowners, and electric sliding driveway gates provide an excellent barrier against unauthorised access.
Their robust design and advanced locking mechanisms make them significantly harder to breach than traditional swing gates. The horizontal movement of a sliding gate ensures that it remains securely locked when closed, offering better resistance against forced entry.
Most electric sliding gates come with automated locking systems, reducing the risk of human error and ensuring that the gate is always properly secured.
Additionally, they can be seamlessly integrated with modern security features such as intercoms, CCTV cameras, and motion sensors, providing homeowners with real-time surveillance and control.
Sliding gates also prevent “tailgating,” a common security risk where intruders attempt to slip through behind an authorised vehicle. Unlike swing gates, which tend to stay open for a while after use, a sliding gate closes tightly and swiftly, minimising this risk. In fact, at Windlesham Gates, our sliding driveway gates operate up to 60% faster than conventional, hinge-based equivalents.
2. Automation and Ease of Use
The convenience of sliding gates for driveways makes them a preferred choice for modern homeowners. Automation eliminates the need for manual operation, allowing for effortless access control.
Gates can be operated remotely using a key fob, remote control, tag system, smartphone app, or even voice assistants like Alexa or Google Home, making them a seamless addition to a smart home setup.
Safety is another crucial aspect of automated gates. Built-in safety sensors detect obstacles in the gate’s path, preventing accidents or damage to vehicles and pedestrians.
Many systems also include a battery backup, ensuring continued functionality even during power outages. With these features, homeowners can enjoy a smooth, reliable, and hassle-free entrance solution without compromising on security or ease of use.
3. Customisation Options
Sliding gates for driveways offer a wide range of design possibilities, materials, finishes, and decorative elements to match your home’s style and functionality needs.
There are a number of factors that determine the best material choice for your electric sliding gate – including climate, maintenance preferences, and desired aesthetics – but wooden and metal gates are perennially popular options.
Aluminium sliding gates, in particular, can be easily powder-coated in any RAL colour to match the gate to your property’s aesthetic, while Accoya wood can also be painted and finished as desired.
The gates themselves can also be completely tailored, with design options ranging from open slats for a contemporary look or laser-cutouts for artistic flair to solid panels for maximum privacy.
For a truly personalised touch, decorative elements can be incorporated into the design too, such as bespoke engraving, intricate detailing family crests, custom house signs, and finials or post caps.
4. Longevity
Though sliding gates are designed for durability, regular maintenance helps them to remain in optimal condition for years to come.
Keeping the track system free from dirt and debris is essential for smooth operation, while periodic professional servicing of the gate motor helps prevent unexpected breakdowns.
To maintain the gate’s durability, moving parts should also be lubricated regularly to reduce friction and wear.
Generally, wrought iron and aluminium sliding gates require minimal upkeep, with only occasional cleaning needed to maintain a pristine appearance, while wooden gates may need periodic sealing or staining.
FAQs About Sliding Gates
Q: Are sliding gates better than swing gates?
A: For properties with space constraints, sliding gates for driveways are the better option as they don’t require clearance for opening and closing. They also provide enhanced security and automation options.
Q: How much space do I need for a sliding gate?
A: A sliding gate requires a clear area along the boundary at least equal to the width of the gate itself. If space is limited, a bi-parting sliding gate may be an alternative solution.
Q: Can electric sliding driveway gates operate during a power cut?
A: Yes, many automated gates come with a battery backup system to ensure continued operation during power outages.
Q: What is the lifespan of a sliding gate?
A: With proper maintenance, sliding driveway gates can last over 20 years, making them a long-term investment.
Q: Are aluminium sliding gates environmentally friendly?
A: Yes, aluminium is 100% recyclable and requires less energy to produce than many other metals, making it an eco-friendly choice for sliding gates.
Find the Perfect Gate Solution for Your Property with Windlesham Gates
Investing in an electric sliding gate is a smart choice for homeowners looking to optimise limited driveway space, improve security, and enhance curb appeal.
With their durable construction, automation features, and customisable designs, sliding gates for driveways offer both practicality and elegance, making them a worthwhile investment.
If you’re considering installing a sliding driveway gate, Windlesham Gates provides bespoke solutions tailored to your specific needs.
Contact us today for a free, no obligation consultation and let us help you find the perfect gate for your home!
