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Ideally, your gate would swing both in and out. However, if it can only open in one direction, it's generally best for the gate to swing inward. There are exceptions, however. For example, if your property is on a slope, your gate may not be able to swing in.

Keep in mind that there may be local building codes that require your gate to swing inward.

There are a few possible issues that are causing your gate to sage. The hinges may be bent, or the screws holding the hinges to the post could fail—causing the gate to sag from one side to the other. The gate itself may also have come out of square due to failing supports, causing it to sag. On the other hand, it’s possible the gate isn’t the issue at all. The post holding the gate aloft may lean inward, causing the gate to sag.

Installing a gate on an existing fence or alongside a new fence is usually worthwhile, even though it can be expensive. Side gates give you easier access to your rear yard, making the space more usable. More importantly, they can help keep your children and pets safe in your yard without compromising accessibility. Security gates are particularly worthwhile, as they have the added bonus of protecting your home. In case that’s not enough upside, installing a fence with gates usually boosts your curb appeal and property value.

It might be possible to install your own manual driveway gate rather than an automatic one, but we don’t recommend it. Driveway gates are large, heavy, and bulky, and getting them to your house and maneuvering them for installation can be dangerous. It’s also challenging to install the gate and balance it perfectly so that it functions as expected, and wiring any automation mechanisms for your gate is also dangerous and requires help from an electrician. We recommend leaving the work to a professional driveway gate installer.