Hiring a reliable gate company starts by finding an installer with at least five years of experience in your area. This method will ensure they understand local laws and regulations and are familiar with the permitting process. You can also ask the following questions to ensure a smooth installation:

• Have you worked with my gate material in the past?

• Do you have customer references I can call?

• Are you fully insured?

• Will you pull the necessary permits for the installation?

• Do you provide any kind of warranty for the gate’s functionality?

Each has its use, depending on the scenario. Security doors are primarily intended to keep people out of the home, while storm doors are used to protect the home from extreme weather. Both tend to be made from heavy-duty metal and may include glass panels to allow light to enter the home. Storm doors can feature mesh screens, just like screen doors, to allow for increased ventilation and to keep out pests. Security doors rarely, if ever, have mesh screens.

Ideally, a gate should be able to swing both in and out. However, if it can only open in one direction, it is generally best for it to swing inward. This is often the safest option, especially for deck gates near steps, as you'll want the gate to swing away from the stairs. An inward swing also prevents the gate from opening into a public space, like a sidewalk, and can be more convenient when carrying heavy items like a wheelbarrow into a garden.

There are exceptions, however. The layout of your property may require a different approach. For example, if your property is on a slope, the gate may not be able to swing inward. You should also ensure the gate can open fully without colliding with any objects or blocking access to other areas. For a backyard garden gate where public access isn't a concern, the direction it swings is largely a matter of personal preference. Finally, always check your local building codes, as they may have specific requirements for which way a gate must swing.

It does matter which way a hinge is installed because it’s possible to install a hinge backward. The hinge pin should face the direction in which the door will swing, making the pin visible. Exterior doors that swing outward need a security hinge with an Allen set screw in the center to prevent someone from removing the hinge from the outside and accessing the home or business.