If you're a homeowner looking to invest in new gates, you may need help deciding whether to choose a single or double gate. This blog post aims to help you understand the main differences between the two options. The choice between the two generally depends on several factors, including property layout, available space, budget, and personal preferences; however, to help you make an informed purchasing decision, we'll outline the main differences between the two gate types and their pros and cons.
What is a Single Gate?
A single gate is typically used to secure a pedestrian entrance or a small driveway opening. As the name implies, they comprise one panel that will either hinge from a wall or post, open in one fixed direction or slide to one side (like a sliding gate).
What are the Advantages of a Single Gate?
- Cost-Effective: Due to the simplistic design and fewer components required during fabrication, a single gate will generally cost less than a pair of double gates.
- Space Saving: Because a single gate only opens to one side, it will require less space and is therefore well suited to properties with features that would hinder a double gate's opening and closing cycles.
- Ease of Installation: Installation is easy and quick, with only one set of hinges to worry about. Furthermore, because you do not need to worry about having both panels sit level with each other, they are more suitable for inexperienced installers.
What are the Disadvantages of a Single Gate?
- Wider Swinging Radius: Due to the design of a single gate, they have a wide swinging radius. This means a significant amount of clear space is required for the gate to open and close correctly. Consequently, once going over a certain width, they can become impractical to operate and, as a result, may not be suitable for properties that require wider or larger access.
- Limited Width: As the gate becomes wider, it gets heavier and will eventually reach a point when it becomes structurally unstable. Furthermore, the wider the gate, the more strain the hinges will place on the support structure. Consequently, most single designs will stop at around 3m.
What are Double Gates?
Generally used for wider openings or where space may be restricted, double gates most commonly comprise two equal-sized panels that meet in the middle when closed to secure the entire width of the entrance. Regardless of the makeup, the principle of the design will remain the same in that each gate will open independently of the other via its own hinges.
What are the Main Advantages of Double Gates?
- Ability to Span Wider Openings: The number one advantage of choosing a double gate is its ability to span a much wider entrance than a single gate design. Consequently, they are predominantly used for driveway entrances and other large openings that need to be secured.
- Smaller Swinging Radius: Double gates demand a smaller swinging radius when compared to a single gate spanning an equivalent size opening, meaning they can operate with less clear space behind them (perfect for short driveways or areas with restricted parking spaces). When you consider that a single gate will need an opening radius equal to its length, but in comparison, a double gate will require only half of that radius, you can see how they have space-saving benefits. Furthermore, when looking at Bi-fold double gates (which concertina open), they will need only half the opening radius of a 50/50 split double gate design, saving even more space on the driveway.
- Each Gate Panel Can Open Independently: Double gates can open independently. Opening only one section offers more convenience if you need to access the entrance on foot or by bike. Additionally, when there is limited space to open fully (because a car may already be on the driveway), having the ability to move only one section will reduce the amount of clear space required.
- Equal Weight Distribution: With the weight of each gate supported on its hinges, the support structure that these elements are attached to does not carry as much stress. This means that you can utilise smaller pillars and posts.
What are the Disadvantages of Double Gates?
- Cost: In general terms, they are expensive. This can be attributed to several factors, including the need for larger size components to ensure structural stability when spanning large openings, the requirement for additional hardware (double the number of hinges, etc) and the simple fact they use more materials in their construction.
- Longer Installation Time: The process of fitting double gates is more complex than a single gate and will take longer to complete as hinges must be fixed on each opening side. Furthermore, because of the need to sit level with each other, more time is needed to ensure this is achieved.
- Space Requirements: Space is required on each side of the opening to function correctly. In some instances, unforeseen circumstances such as sloping ground, walls, steps, rainwater pipes or other obstructions may cause issues; therefore, careful planning should always be taken when considering buying double gates for your property.
Which Gate Type Should I Choose?
Unfortunately, there is no definitive answer to this. Selecting the right type, whether a single or double gate, will largely depend on your ability to assess the factors detailed above.
Where Can I Buy the Best Single & Double Gates?
Our online shop is available 24/7, allowing easy ordering and secure payments. We have a wide range of single and double-gate designs for sale at competitive prices in modern and traditional styles. They are available in standard and made-to-measure sizes to suit every residential property owner's requirement, whether it's to secure a footpath or large driveway opening. If you need help or advice, contact Metal Gates Direct using our online form or by emailing sales@metalgatesdirect.co.uk, and we will be happy to provide the support you need.