Pro's and Cons of Electric Wooden Gates and Electric Iron Gates

Choosing between wood, steel or aluminium is a vital consideration when it comes to finding your perfect gates. Some have an historical beauty to it while the other holds a more contemporary feel and structural values. It is an important decision to make for such an investment purchase and one that we can help you with here at The Electric Gate Company. In this blog, we’ll discuss the pros and cons of both materials. 

Steel is a mixture of several metals (this is called an alloy) but most of it is iron. Steel is harder and stronger than iron. Steels are often iron alloys with between 0.02% and 1.7% percent carbon by weight. Alloys with more carbon than this are known as cast iron. 

You’ll probably have spotted ornate iron gates on the entrance drives to many a stately home. They can be bespoke made with individual crests and designs woven into the pattern. When made in-keeping with the local surrounding, they add a decorative benefit to a property. Iron gates normally make use of steel components which, when placed together, provide strength and stability like no other. They will be galvanised and coated to protect against rain and rust, ensuring these gates last for many years.

​In terms of cost, iron gates vary widely in design and costs. This is due to the material chose, size and the level of decorative design. There is also the added value that they should need less maintenance than some other design materials risk that they can absorb extreme temperatures, Not True, making them uncomfortable to handle. And, they are weightier than other gate options, increasing the risk of damage on moving parts and treads. Not True!

These versatile and beautiful gates have their own undeniable charm. They can be constructed in a range of different Hardwood types natural grains and Treated with stains to suit your needs or the local surroundings. Many paints and stains will offer a degree of water and UV protection, extending their lifespan. They are a more environmentally sustainable option which is typically More expensive than iron gates.

Unlike their metal alternatives, wooden gates need regular maintenance to care for. They will need to be re-painted or re-stained whenever needed. They are more susceptible to damage from extreme weather conditions and regular maintenance is the only way to ensure they stand the test of time. It is also worth checking whether your wooden gates are properly treated to avoid insect damage.
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The decision on which gate to go for falls entirely to you. Consider the look you’re going for and the budget you have to hand. Take into account how much maintenance each gate will require and what you can afford to give. These considerations will help you make sure your gates continue to please year after year after year.

Here at the Electric Gate Company we offer a wide range of electric gates for residential and commercial premises including aluminium electric gates, wooden electric gates, sliding electric gates, metal electric gates.
For more information about our complete range of electric gates and automatic gates, including our bespoke design service and installation process, please see below...