Gates are important – if situated at the entrance to any property they provide the first impression for visitors – so what impression do you want them to have? Is security and deterrence the key issue, is it aesthetics or is it simply functionality – a convenient way to access fields for livestock – or a combination of these? Whatever your requirement you can be assured that there’s a wooden gate option that will work for you. Here’s why:
Wood gates are generally cheaper than metal
Metal gates tend to come in steel or aluminum and in a number of different sizes and designs, the same as wood, however there are many different types of both soft and hard wood that wooden gates can be made from. The more common softwood varieties include the common Redwood, or ‘Scots Pine’, and the remarkably sturdy Red Cedar, whilst hard woods include Iroko and European Oak.
Softwood gates are more cost-effective than their hardwood counterparts, and cheaper than metal gates with a typical lifespan of between 7 and 8 years, subject to regular maintenance and the application of preservative (some gates come with a level of protection added but check carefully prior to purchase).
Depending on the type of more durable hardwood you select the price will be more compatible with metal gates but still generally cheaper. Iroko is a long lasting, stable and attractive wood that offers a fantastic lifespan, and European Oak is a denser wood that is very resistant to fungal and insect attacks, thanks to its high tannin content.
Wooden gates are an affordable option for first-time farmers, or householders and landowners on a budget.
Wooden gates are strong
As well as being cost-effective, wooden gates, when properly treated and maintained, can be more than strong enough for most applications, whilst obviously not being as strong and durable as metal alternatives. Wood gates need to be protected from pests, heavy wind and rain, and harsh UV light. Regular coats of protective sealant or preservative can safeguard a wooden gate and prolong its lifespan for many years.
Wooden gates are easy to repair
Unlike metal gates, wooden gates can be repaired relatively quickly and cheaply, often by someone with competent DIY skills and standard maintenance tools. Metal however requires specialist repair such as welding which can be expensive and inconvenient to arrange. The trick with wood is to ensure against the need for major repairs by undertaking regular checks against small damage that might deteriorate and cause the need for major repairs at a later stage.
You need to ensure wood is properly and appropriately protected. Metal gates might not need such regular maintenance as wood but when metal gates do need repair it is more of a complex and costly undertaking.
Wooden gates are aesthetically pleasing
As well as offering a number of physical benefits, wooden gates are commonly chosen for their classic appearance, especially in a rural or countryside setting where the organic appeal of wood is compelling. After all, wooden gates have been used for centuries, and their aesthetic is something we tend to appreciate as wooden gates create a classic country look to improve the appearance of any outdoor space.
Metal gates on the other hand have a more austere, functional aesthetic. Treated carefully, wooden gates can last many years whilst creating that desired ageing effect that many people, especially homeowners, find aesthetically pleasing.
Wooden gates are versatile
Wooden gates are extremely versatile. They can be installed as a means of entrance or exit for both agricultural and residential properties. There is a huge range of wooden gates to choose from. Make sure you weigh up the pros and cons of each type of wooden gate before you make an informed decision and start the installation process.
When it comes to installing a new gate at your property remember that wooden gates have many advantages over metal alternatives and with such a wide range of options to choose from, you are guaranteed to find a wooden gate to suit you and your individual budget and requirements.
