Best driveway gate pros near Warren, MN

When building an outdoor or deck gate, it's crucial to use durable wood that can withstand harsh weather conditions like sunlight, rain, wind, and snow. Redwood and cedar are excellent choices as they naturally resist decay. While redwood is considered more elegant, cedar is a more affordable option. Other suitable woods include oak and pressure-treated pine, which is specifically treated to resist rot. Although some softwoods like pine are popular, untreated softwoods such as pine and spruce should generally be avoided for outdoor projects because they are susceptible to damage from water, rot, and the sun. Ultimately, it's wise to consider your local climate when selecting the right wood for your gate.

Assuming the site is prepped and you have all the tools and materials ready, you should budget the better part of a day to build a driveway gate. This can depend on your DIY experience and which materials you’ve chosen, such as building from scratch or using a prefabricated option. The gate size and finishing touches, like painting or staining, can also add to the overall time budget.

A Trex gate costs $750 plus another $200 for the hardware pack necessary for installation. By contrast, Trex fencing ranges in price from $22 to $38 per linear foot, so you may pay a lot or a little depending on just how much space you need to enclose in your yard. 

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.