Everyone wants to know which is better for their driveway: a single or double swing gate.  The answer completely depends on your situation.

The ideal gate configuration is determined after considering many factors including physical restrictions, aesthetics and budget. We have a comprehensive checklist you can download as you are designing your driveway gate, but the following is a good place to start.

Single Swing Gate:

• You only need one automatic opener, so it costs less.
• They require half the hardware (hinges, bolts, hinge posts, etc) compared to a double gate.
• You need more swing distance behind the gate. A 12ft single gate needs 12ft of space behind the gate to swing freely whereas a 12ft double gate would need only 6ft.
• You need a heavier duty post to hang the gate off of since all the weight is on one post.
• We recommend 14ft for the max width for a single swing gate.

Double Swing Gate:

• You need less swing distance behind the gate. A 12ft double gate would need only 6ft whereas a single gate would need all 12ft.
• Double gates can accommodate wider driveway openings than a single.
• These are the traditional look and have a more ‘elegant’ appearance when opening from center.
• Double gates require more hardware (hinges, bolts, hinge posts, etc).
• If automating the gates, it will be more expensive since you will need an opener motor for each leaf.

Slide Gate:

In most cases, residential customers choose swing gates. But, swing gates aren’t always possible. Here are 2 situations where that happens:
1. There isn’t room for the swing gate to open. Slide gates are for very tight/compact spaces where swinging isn’t possible.
2. There’s a huge upward slope going into your driveway. You could still install a swing gate in this case, but it would have to open toward your car as you enter your driveway if you do. If you’re afraid your visitors will misjudge the distance your swing gates open and that they might accidentally hit them, a slide gate would be better.

Curving vs. Straight Driveways:

If the approach to your entry is a straight shot you can use a smaller gate such as a 12′ single if it clears your driveway; if the approach is at an angle or if it curves sharply, consider using a wider bi-parting gate.

Hanging the Gates:

Our driveway gates and posts are designed so you can take them with you if you move. Our systems also can be adjusted over time when the land moves. This is a signature feature of our gates that set them apart.

Many of our clients already have a ranch gate they want to automate.  Do you know the biggest problem with automating a ranch gate? Read this article so you don’t make that mistake!

More Questions?

We have more resources with more details to help.  Check out this checklist to get started.