Get matched with top driveway gate pros in Hutchinson, KS

Driveway gates are expensive to install, but they are usually a worthwhile investment. Not only does this exterior feature improve your curb appeal and, by extension, your property value, but they also help keep your home secure. Driveway can keep out unwanted guests and provide additional privacy for you and your household. Plus, they can serve as a means of keeping children and pets in your yard, depending on the type of fence.

The obvious disadvantage of an automatic gate is that it runs on electricity. If the power goes out, it won’t open or close unless there’s a manual override. Many homeowners will need a backup generator so they don’t get stuck on either side of the gate, particularly when looking to park a vehicle. Automatic gates are also much more complicated than manual gates, with tech-heavy components that make them more expensive to repair.

Electric gates can be forced open if someone applies enough force to the edge furthest from the mounting bracket. You can reduce this risk by adding an electric lock to your gate opener. However, automatic gate openers generally help deter intruders, especially when paired with outdoor lighting and security cameras. Other home security tips include trimming trees surrounding the area for added visibility and installing motion sensors in your yard.

Installing your own gate is possible, but we don’t recommend it. Gates can weigh hundreds of pounds in some cases, and even types of gates made from the lightest materials are heavy, bulky, and difficult to maneuver into place. Positioning your gate perfectly is also crucial to make sure it swings smoothly and either closes automatically or doesn’t close without force, depending on your preferences. Mistakes made by DIYers can be quite costly, too, as the materials alone average around $1,000. As such, it’s better to hire a professional gate installer.