A wrought iron gate or railing is a timeless choice for almost any kind of property, so it’s no wonder they’re such popular home additions up and down the country. If you’re considering one for your own property though, there are a couple of key considerations you’ll need to bear in mind to ensure that you’re choosing the right gate for you.
From precise measurements to understanding site conditions, and choosing the appropriate design and budget, each aspect plays a vital role in ensuring that your gate meets your expectations and serves you well for years to come. And of course, we’ve got extensive experience to our name here at SL Wrought Iron, so here are our top tips on how to get yourself prepared first!
Have accurate measurements to hand
We make each gate made-to-measure here at SL Wrought Iron, so it’s always handy to have your measurements ready by the time you come to us – it saves a lot of time, and it’s crucial to ensure a perfect fit for your wrought iron gate.
Begin by measuring the width and height of the opening where the gate will be installed. This step is essential for ensuring that the gate fits properly and operates smoothly once in place. It’s wise to measure at several points along the opening to account for any irregularities. Then, you can move on to measuring the distance between the gate posts or supports, as this will ensure the gate aligns correctly with the posts for proper installation and functionality. (Don’t forget to check the clearances around the gate.)
From there, you can ensure there is ample space above and around the gate so that it can open and close without obstruction. And of course, before you finish the job, you’ll need to watch out to ensure that there won’t be any complications with any potential obstacles such as walls, fences, or landscaping features.
Site conditions
Another critical factor are the site conditions, where the gate will be installed. You’ll therefore need to assess the ground level at the installation site; if the ground is uneven or sloped, adjustments or additional work may be needed to ensure the gate is level and functions correctly.
Weather conditions will also need be taken into account, as they can affect the gate’s performance and durability. For instance, in coastal areas with high humidity and salt exposure, extra rust protection might be necessary. Additionally, it always helps to make a note of the type of surface where the gate will be mounted, whether it’s concrete, brick, or soil, as this will influence the type of fittings and anchors required for a secure installation.
Gate design and style
Now that you’ve got all the key information sorted, now comes the fun part. Wrought iron gates come in a variety of designs, ranging from traditional to contemporary, which gives you plenty of freedom to pick one that suits your aesthetic preferences. Here at SL Wrought Iron, you can choose between several key styles, from Barnoldswick to Chatburn.
If you’re stuck on choosing between your favourites, one popular approach is to match your gate to the style of your property. Modern properties tend to be enhanced best by modern ranges, such as Belthorn and Great Harwood, whereas more traditional properties are often paired with the Ribchester or Wilpshire. At this stage, this is also a good point to decide on the finish or coating for the gate, such as galvanising, powder coating, or painting. Each option will impact the gate’s appearance and its resistance to weathering, so choose a finish that meets both your aesthetic desires and practical needs.
Personally, we’d always recommend galvanising, as it helps your gate to truly last a lifetime. You can find out what’s involved in the galvanising process here.
Budget and costs
Finally, of course, you’ll need to establish a clear budget before you commit to ordering your wrought iron gate or railing. You’ll need to take into account the cost of materials, design complexity, and any additional features you may want. (Wrought iron gates can vary significantly in price depending on these factors.) It’s also important to factor in the cost of installation, which may include labour, additional materials, and any necessary modifications to fit the gate properly.
If you’re not sure exactly how much your wrought iron gate or railing will cost, don’t worry – you can always speak to a friendly member of our team, and we’ll be happy to give you a rough ballpark area, so you know what kind of general price you’ll be looking at.
And when you’ve got all the information to hand and you’re ready to buy your metal gate or railing, you’ll only find the very best options right here at SL Wrought Iron. All are British-made and with a 10-year workmanship guarantee, so they can easily add a touch of class to any setting. If the details of galvanisation have piqued your interest, be sure to browse through our range of handpicked designs on our website, each of which is available in a variety of sizes. For any assistance choosing your metal gates or railing, don’t hesitate to give us a call on 01254 236994. and we’ll be more than happy to help!
