Get matched with top driveway gate pros in Bloomer, WI

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.

The best direction for a gate to swing depends on its location and purpose, but swinging inward is the general rule. An inward swing is often considered safer, prevents the gate from opening into public spaces like a sidewalk, and may be required by local building codes.

There are exceptions and specific considerations. If your property is on a slope, an inward swing might not be possible. For a deck gate, it's safest to have it swing away from any steps. In a backyard, the direction can be a matter of preference, though an inward swing can be helpful when carrying heavy items like a wheelbarrow into a garden.

Regardless of direction, ensure the gate can open fully without hitting any objects or blocking spaces. While an inward swing is standard, a gate that can swing both in and out offers the most flexibility if your setup allows for it.

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.

You can install a privacy cover on your wrought iron gate anytime. However, pick a dry day if you apply stain or paint to the paneling. If you’re hiring a local fencing contractor, they often offer better rates in their low season outside the busy spring and summer months.