How do You Support Heavy Gates?

2022-10-29

Whether you have garden or driveway gates for security or aesthetic purposes, you must ensure they are properly supported.

Given that a metal garden gate's average weight is approximately 50kg (or 100-250kg for double gates), adding one will increase the strain on the wall at its hinges. Therefore, it is vital heavy gates are supported to avoid causing damage to your property. Are you struggling to find ways to support your heavy gates? Below, we’ve detailed a series of helpful methods to make sure your gates have maximum stability.

 

A high quality installation

First things first, ensure your gate is attached to a robust and sturdy wall. Gates installed on a wall that is not strong enough to support their weight will eventually sag, pull out of the hinges, or become difficult to open and close. In some cases, an unsecured gate can even fall over and cause injury.

 

Hinges: Get it right first time!

The most common and effective way to support heavy gates is by using hinges. You can use a hook and band hinges for wooden gates and adjustable eye bolts for metal gates. These designs are ideal for heavy gates as they can accommodate a lot of weight without sagging. Not only is it essential to make sure the hinges you select can bear the weight of your gate, but you must ensure they are able to open to the required degree. For example, a T-hinge is unsuitable for a heavy driveway gate as it will not provide the correct level of support.

 

Wall-mounted posts

You can take some of the strain away from the wall by attaching your gates to posts that are fixed into the ground or attached to the wall. This is an excellent option if your gates are particularly heavy or if you live in an area with high winds, as it will help to keep them secure and help spread the load.

When installing posts, it is important to make sure they are made from a durable material that can support the weight of your gates. For instance, metal or concrete posts will be much more effective than wooden ones. It is also worth considering having your posts powder-coated to protect them from rust.

 

Floor-mounted posts

If you can’t attach your gates to the wall, you can use in ground posts instead. These will need to be concreted into the ground to provide the most support. However, it is important to ensure they are concreted in correctly and that the concrete has had time to set before attaching your gates.

 

Not keen on posts? Try a track and roller system

The cantilever system is a great way to support heavy gates without needing posts. This involves attaching the gates to a track fixed to the wall or floor, allowing them to slide open and closed. This system is perfect for large gates as it eliminates the need for posts that can take up a lot of space. It also makes it easy to open and close your gates, as they will move smoothly along the track. Another benefit of using a cantilever system is that it is much more secure than traditional hinges. This is because the gates are attached to the wall or floor and cannot be pulled away from the hinges by someone trying to force their way in.

 

If you want an extra-wide gate, choose a double gate!

Supporting an extra-wide gate can be challenging but possible with a double gate. This type of gate consists of two halves that are hinged together, allowing them to open and close like a book. The two gates will meet in the middle and appear as one solid unit when closed.

A double gate is ideal for use as a driveway gate as it provides a wide opening for vehicles to pass through. It is also perfect for use in windy areas, as the two gates will help to keep each other secure.

If you are unsure which support system would be best for your gates, we recommend speaking to a professional for advice. Garden Gates Direct offers a wide range of garden gates and driveway gates and all the fixtures and fittings you'll need to secure them. Visit our website or contact us today to find out more.