Less hassle comes from better gate planning
Site-led gate choice
Swing and sliding options are judged against the driveway, not guessed from a brochure.
Controls matched to use
We plan access around how you enter, exit and manage visitors day to day.
Safety built into the setup
Clearances, hardware and safety elements are considered as part of one system.
Powered access starts with the right layout
Automated gates only work well when the whole layout is thought through before anything is made. The gate style, the direction of travel, the opening width and the daily traffic all need to suit the site. In some driveways, a swing gate is the sensible answer. In others, a sliding arrangement makes better use of space, especially where parked cars, tight clearances or awkward geometry would make a hinged gate a nuisance.
We look at how you want the entrance to work day to day, whether that means remote opening, controlled visitor access or a simpler way to get in and out without climbing out in the rain.
Why the gate and automation must be planned together
A proper site assessment matters here. Gate weight, post positions, power availability, gradients, travel area and safe operating clearances all shape the finished system. The safety equipment and access controls also need to match the gate arrangement rather than being treated as an afterthought. By planning the steelwork and the automation together, Wingfield Fencing Ltd can avoid the common headache of a gate that looks fine on paper but is awkward, cramped or unsuitable once the motors and hardware are added.
Frequently asked questions
How do you decide between swing and sliding gates?
It comes down to the site. Driveway depth, gradients, parked vehicles, opening width and the space available for travel all affect which arrangement makes sense. A swing gate is not always the best answer, and neither is a sliding one.
Can an existing gate be automated?
Sometimes, but not every manual gate or opening is suitable. The weight, structure, support details, clearances and power arrangement all need checking first. In many cases, planning the gate and automation together gives a cleaner and more dependable result.
What information helps with an electric gate enquiry?
Start with the opening width, a few photographs and how you want the entrance to operate. It also helps to know about available power, slopes, parked vehicles and whether you expect frequent visitor access or mainly day-to-day household use.