How Does Weather Affect Different Gate Materials?

New white metal gate in Dallas made of aluminum gate materials

Meteorologists predict more frequent turbulent storm seasons in the following decade. So far, there have been 8,769 wind storms in the US in 2022. Now is the perfect time to upgrade your gates and protect your property from future heavy storms.

Read our guide below to learn which gate material is most resistant to weather conditions. You’ll find out how different gate materials are affected by weather – whether it’s rain, snow, wind, or extreme temperatures.

Wood Gate Materials

Wood gates are made of natural material and, as a result, are the most vulnerable to weather. Heavy winds can bend, break, and tip your gate over.

In addition, rainfall can cause gradual deterioration if you haven’t coated your gate. Wood is prone to damage resulting from moisture.

Without a protective coating, the gate will absorb water. If there are freezing temperatures, that water will freeze inside the material and expand its cracks.

But when temperatures climb up, that water will evaporate. The process will continue forever, and this constant shrinking and expansion will ultimately impact the gate’s structure and joints.

Vinyl Gates

Vinyl is far more durable than wood. It has a longer lifespan and is not vulnerable to termites and rainfall. You don’t have to concern yourself about rot, either.

However, a storm can impact this material, too. For instance, a vinyl gate can fall over from the strong wind.

In addition, the material doesn’t hold well in areas with extreme temperatures. It’s simply not as resistant to impact as other materials.

So, if a wind throws a heavy object on the gate, it will break it. In this case, you can’t fix the bruised spot but will need to replace the entire gate.

Iron Gates

Iron gates are a type of metal gates. They are durable and provide a unique look. However, they are not water-resistant.

The substance iron oxide corrodes when in direct contact with water and oxygen. The effects are even more disturbing when salt water is involved (near oceans and seas).

To prevent rain from affecting an iron gate, choose a product with a special protective layer. Such iron gates don’t allow water to enter the material.

Besides water damage, iron gates can break and loosen up during heavy winds. However, there’s no avoiding this one regardless of the material.

Aluminum Gates

Aluminum gates are perfect for areas with a lot of rain. Like iron, aluminum is a metal.

However, it is not as vulnerable to moisture and humidity. This material is considered weather-resistant as it is strong and will never rot.

Nonetheless, a heavy storm can easily bend and break this type of gate. In addition, it can damage the automation system and bring down posts and pillars.

Trust 4 Sure Gates To Choose the Right Gate Materials

Every gate has a unique flair – from design and material to manufacturing process and quality! And the quality is vital for ensuring your gate withstands difficult weather conditions. This applies to both manufacturing and installation.

If you want to prolong your gate’s lifespan, only work with reputable companies! At 4 Sure Gates, we have a team of highly qualified gate experts with over 15 years of experience. We are a pioneer in innovative and high-caliber products and services.

With our team by your side, rest assured you will get the best possible gate design, installation, and repair services in Dallas, Fort Worth, Plano, and surrounding areas. 

Call us today to schedule a free gate installation quote and learn more about our services.

Explore the Four Most Popular Gate Materials

The choice of material affects upfront expenses, future expenses, and the service life of your gate. And because a burglary can cost a homeowner an average of $2,661, it pays to be critical of the materials you choose for home security.

To help you decide, 4 Sure Gates compiled the most popular gate materials for home and business owners in Texas.

Wooden Gates

A perennial favorite, a wooden gate never goes out of style. It complements most properties, but it’s best for homeowners who want a rustic and cozy appearance to their property. 

Choose a wooden gate if:

  • You want a homely feel. Without a doubt, wood is the most homely-looking material. It’s more welcoming than aluminum or wrought iron gate.
  • You have a specific look in mind. Wooden gates can be stained or painted in different colors. Whether you want a natural grain or a trendy olive green fence, you can achieve it.
  • You want to block out the view. Most wooden gates completely cover the property from prying eyes.

Wood, as with all materials, comes with disadvantages.

  • Wood is vulnerable to weather. Wood absorbs water when it rains and expands. Conversely, it dries out and shrinks when it’s hot. As a result, the gate’s hinges must be strong enough to support the weight fluctuations. 
  • Wood is prone to rot. To prevent rotting, wooden gates require periodic maintenance, which is more expensive than other gate materials, like wrought iron. The wood surface needs to be sealed regularly.

Aluminum Gates

Sleek and sophisticated, aluminum is the gate of choice for property owners who love a modern design. It’s lightweight, versatile, and easy to shape into whatever design you envision. 

Choose an aluminum gate if:

  • You want a bespoke appearance. Unlike wood or wrought iron, aluminum doesn’t have a distinct look. As such, it can be formed into any design you imagine. Aluminum ranges from rectangular panels or elaborate security gates. 
  • You want a gate with minimal maintenance. Aluminum doesn’t absorb water, rot, or rust, unlike other metal gate materials.

Beware of the cons of aluminum gates, too.

  • Aluminum is not ideal for locations with intense weather. Because aluminum is lightweight, strong winds and hail can damage the gate.
  • Aluminum may not be the best for automatic gates. The vibrations from the gate motor worsen the wear and tear, which may decrease the gate’s lifespan.

Wrought Iron Gates

If you want a gate design that’s imposing and grand, go for wrought iron. It’s the gate material used by old, stately mansions, thanks to its durability and elegance.

Invest in a wrought iron gate installation if:

  • You want a gate that could last generations. This is evident in old homes with wrought iron gates still intact. Wrought iron is sturdy enough to last for decades.
  • You live in an area with intense weather. If you encounter torrential rains, tough winds, or intense heat, wrought iron gates are your best choice. It stands up to extreme climate conditions.
  • You want a gate that intruders can’t cut through. Given its density and thickness, it is difficult to tamper or cut through wrought iron.

Tough as it is, wrought iron still has its disadvantages.

  • Wrought iron doesn’t provide much privacy. Most wrought-iron gates allow outsiders to see through and view your property. 
  • Wrought iron is more expensive. Given its durability, wrought iron often carries a heavier price tag than wood and vinyl.

Vinyl Gates

Though not as popular as its wrought iron or wooden counterparts, vinyl is still a trusted material.

Choose vinyl if:

  • You want an affordable solution. Vinyl is more affordable than its wrought iron and wooden counterparts.
  • You want extra privacy. A vinyl gate can completely block the view, offering you better privacy. 
  • You want a water-proof gate. Water slides off the vinyl. As such, these gates resist heavy rainfall.

Vinyl also comes with cons.

  • Vinyl is vulnerable to temperature changes. Vinyl expands and contracts as the temperature shifts, so it must be properly reinforced.
  • Vinyl is vulnerable to harsh weather. Winds and storms can destroy vinyl gates. Moreover, UV rays can cause the vinyl to fade.

Your choice of fence or gate materials will depend on your budget, aesthetics, preferred maintenance level, and more. 

If you need specialist advice for your new gate, call 4 Sure Gates at (817) 965-7873 or send us a message.

Vinyl, Wood, Metal: Which Gate Material Is Best for Your Home?

Gates deserve careful thought and attention: they are the first things visitors see when visiting your home. More than that, they factor in prominently in your property’s curb appeal and security. Therefore, it’s essential to choose a gate that meets your needs and expectations in these areas.

At 4 Sure Gates, we can offer you a variety of materials. We can classify them into three: metal, vinyl, and wood. Below are the advantages of each type and the qualities they possess that will help you decide which one to choose.   

Vinyl Gates

When you find gates that are vinyl, they are likely made of PVC. It’s a good choice if security is not a big problem, and you want to add a fence to boost your home’s curb appeal. 

Vinyl is non-porous, waterproof, and non-toxic. As a non-metal, it doesn’t rust; and being a durable synthetic material, it doesn’t decay fast. It’s not vulnerable to moisture, insects, and pests, either. And although it may look and feel like it’s partly plastic, it doesn’t warp or become deformed when exposed to extreme temperatures and weather cycles.

Vinyl may not be as strong as wrought iron or steel, but it is five times stronger than wood. It’s also very versatile; there are many attractive pre-made designs and, if you can find the right supplier, you can have it custom-made. With vinyl gates, therefore, you get picture-perfect gates that can last for decades.

  • Durable
  • Long-lasting
  • Low-maintenance
  • Easy to install
  • Versatile / Customizable
  • High aesthetic value

Metal Gates

Metal gates made from wrought iron or steel are known for their durability, versatility, and aesthetic appeal. Iron is malleable, but it is strong and has high resistance against vibrations, weathering, and impact damage. Metal gates are an excellent choice if security is your main priority. 

For security, metal gates are the best for electric gate systems with automatic openers. Wrought iron, for one, is perfect for automatic sliding gates. It is heavy and robust enough to stay firmly within the tracks; it won’t easily give way if someone tries to force the mechanism out of alignment.

In terms of appearance, metal gates also score high. They are versatile, and the metalwork can be customized according to your goals. For instance, you can design a steel gate that uses both bars and panels. Bars have a functional purpose: they reveal who’s on the other side of the gate. Solid steel panels, meanwhile, hide your property from view, offering you a bit of privacy. Combine both, and you can have a unique gate that:

  • Provides security
  • Offers privacy
  • Boosts your property’s curb appeal
  • Is long-lasting
  • Is strong and durable

Wood Gates

Wood gates have a broad range, from the quintessential white-picket to treated hardwood to steel-framed. Wood is arguably the most vulnerable to wear and tear, but modern treatment and finishings can extend its serviceable life. Moreover, wood is versatile and can be put together with other materials to achieve an optimal gate. 

The advantage of using wood is it’s readily available, sustainable (reclaimed wood with high aesthetic and functional value is currently trendy), and customizable.

  • It’s available and affordable
  • It boosts your property’s curb appeal
  • It’s versatile
  • Minor damage is easy to repair

Choose a Gate Material According to Your Priorities

All three types offer many benefits. It’s just a matter of deciding which benefits weigh more for your particular needs and wants. 

Physical constraints are also a consideration. If your driveway is flanked by stone or pillars, for example, metal and massive wooden gates would be a better fit than vinyl. If your property is flanked on both sides by neighbors’ backyards and garages, however, a high vinyl gate and fence would be more economical and space-efficient (not to mention easier and faster to install).

No matter what type of gate you choose, it’s crucial that you find capable and reliable people to install it. You can count on 4 Sure Gates to do it for you. We’ve been providing professional gate repair and installation services in the Fort Worth area since 2005. Your gate installation will proceed without a hitch with 4 Sure Gates.

Contact us today to request a quote or book a consultation schedule. You may call (817) 965-7873 or fill out the contact form on our website.

What’s The Best Driveway Gate Material For My Property?

4 Sure Gates wrought iron gate repair in dallas with different Gate Material

A gate on your property comes with a host of benefits. The installation of one could increase the value of your home by as much as $50,000. Gate installation also improves security, enhances curb appeal, and makes your property feel luxurious.

Before you install a driveway gate, consider the factors that may affect the success and enjoyment of your home improvement project. The construction material used to build the gate is one of them.

As experienced gateway repair and installation specialists in Texas, we know what material options work for certain driveway gates.

Keep in mind these three choices:

1. Traditional Wooden Gate

A gate made of wood is a versatile and classic option. It’s usually less expensive than other materials, such as wrought iron and aluminum.

Additionally, wood is a smart choice if you’re looking for flexibility. You could easily customize wooden gates to match the overall style of your house. Painting or staining the wood, for instance, will help you achieve the look you want.

One example of a wooden gate is the classic post-and-rail ranch-style driveway gate. This structure is ideal for securing farm animals in and keeping unwanted wildlife out of your property. You could give this gate a 21st century feel while retaining its rustic charm by installing modern security options and automatic openers.

2. Lightweight Aluminum Gate

As a primary material, aluminum is lightweight and easy to handle. Also, gates made using aluminum require minimal maintenance. You only need to clean the gate from time to time to keep the material in tiptop shape.

Another benefit of aluminum is its durability. It withstands harsh weather and the test of time.

If you want to customize an aluminum gate, you have the option to paint it or apply powder coating onto the material. Powder coating is an environmentally friendly way to enhance this structure. The coating contains zero solvents, which reduces the pollutants present in the atmosphere.

3. Iron Gates

This type of gate is famous for its durability and elegance. You’ll find wrought iron gates in a lot of historic buildings and districts.

As a material, iron is incredibly strong and rigid. Although installing an iron driveway gate may seem challenging, the benefit is worth it, as the structure will stay intact for years to come.

Another beauty of iron is its highly versatile nature. You could design wrought iron gates in various designs and shapes.

Note that there’s no right or wrong material for your gate. The gate material that’s best for you would depend on your personal preference and the style of your property.

When you need to install a manual or automatic driveway gate for your property, turn to 4 Sure Gates.

Gate Installation and Repair Specialists

We have over 15 years of professional gate installation and repair experience. Our licensed driveway gate repair specialists and installers provide stellar service in various areas in Texas, including Fort Worth, Southlake, Dallas, and Plano.

If you want to personalize a particular gate material, such as iron, we’ll customize it and make the entryway truly unique for your property. Alternatively, you could choose from our range of gate designs that will improve your property’s security and overall appearance.

Get a free estimate for your gate project today by calling (817) 965-7873.