Choosing the perfect driveway gate for your property is a significant decision that blends driveway aesthetic with security. However, before you dive into styles and materials, there’s a crucial step that ensures your driveway gate fits perfectly and functions seamlessly – accurate measurement.
Measuring for a driveway gate might seem straightforward, but several key factors can influence the process – or potentially sabotage it.
Whether you’re a DIY enthusiast or planning for professional gate installation, understanding how to measure your driveway correctly is essential.
Keep reading as we walk you through the step-by-step process, offering tips and insights to help you get it right the first time – ensuring your new gate is a perfect fit for your home.
Why is it important to accurately measure before installing driveway gates?
Accurately measuring before installing a driveway gate is of the utmost importance. But why?
Security and functionality
Precisely measuring where you are going to install a driveway gate helps ensure that the gate will operate correctly, further ensuring the security of your driveway, vehicles and property. Even just slightly off measure can cause your gate to cease functioning and become a gateway to intruders.
Aesthetics
A huge perk of driveway gates is that they improve privacy, but they also add to your home’s aesthetic, curb appeal, and can increase your home’s property value. However, wonky gates, large gaps or just an unprofessional finish will not only be a waste of money for you, but they could actually decrease the curb appeal and value of your home.
Cost efficiency
You know the phrase ‘Measure twice, cut once’? Well, we think of it as measuring twice, but only paying once. Whilst your driveway gate will always need regular maintenance and perhaps the odd repair, uneven, unsecured and barely functioning gates will end up costing you far more in modifications, repairs and replacements.
Tools you need to measure for driveway gates
So what do you need to measure for a driveway gate? We recommend keeping these tools to hand:
1. Tape measure
A long tape measure (preferably 25 feet or longer) is essential for taking accurate measurements of the width and height of your driveway and gate area.
2. Level
A level ensures that your measurements and markings are straight, even if your driveway gate is being installed on uneven ground, which is crucial for the proper installation of the gate.
3. String line and stakes
String lines and stakes are used to mark the straight lines you have measured and to ensure a perfect alignment for your driveway gate installation.
4. Chalk line
A chalk line can also help you mark straight lines, leaving marks on the ground for reference to compare.
5. Notebook and pencil
A notebook and pencil are the best ways to quickly record measurements, along with any notes you might wish to share with the driveway gate supplier. We recommend also taking a picture of these notes – just in case you misplace them.
6. Measuring wheel or laser distance measurer (optional)
If you’re struggling to use a tape measure, especially across larger areas and longer distances, then a measuring wheel or laser distance measurer can help. These are often found to be more efficient and can provide quick and precise measurements – without the struggle.
How to measure for driveway gates: Step-by-step process
Now that you know why measuring for a driveway gate is so important, and what tools you need to do so, how exactly do you measure for one?
Follow these five simple steps for the perfect measurements:
Step 1: Determine the gate type you want to install
Firstly, you need to decide what type of gate you want to install – swing or sliding? Both of these styles of gates can be manual or automated.
Swing gates
Swing driveway gates are the more traditional option, which opens inwards into your driveway or outwards onto the street. This type of gate is more suited to large driveways and is often cheaper, however, we don’t recommend it for those on sloped terrain or with little room to open.
Sliding gates
Sliding driveway gates are the more modern version of driveway gates, which open horizontally along a track. This type of gate is more suited to narrow driveways or those on sloped ground, however, can be more expensive and need a lot of space to open at either side of the gate.
Step 2: Measure your driveway width
The next step is to measure your driveway gate’s width – the space in which the gate will sit and vehicles will enter through. At this stage, you want to measure the entire distance across – without considering gate posts. This width will include how much space you will have for your entire driveway gate set-up.
Remember to measure multiple times, until you repeatedly get the same measurement.
Step 3: Assess the height of your driveway gate
Then, you need to assess how high your driveway gate should be. The standard driveway gate in the UK ranges between 3ft and 7ft – in line with legal regulations. If your driveway is on a slope, then consider how much of a gap will be underneath the gate.
Ensure you learn the legal height requirements of your area before placing an order. Whilst driveway gates do not typically require planning permission, you may need to enquire with the local authority if your first driveway gate is next to a highway or if you want a gate taller than 2 metres (or if the gate’s predecessor already is).
Step 4: Check how level the ground is
Now, you need to assess how level the ground is. Using a level, either a spirit level or an electronic one, lay it flat on the ground and assess how straight it is. Whilst your driveway may appear flat, this assessment may have to sway you towards a sliding driveway gate if it is more sloped than you thought.
Step 5: Measure for gate posts and hardware
Finally, you need to measure for your gate posts – a necessary part of the driveway gate set-up. Not only do you need to measure the height and width needed for gate posts, but you also need to include space for hinges, latches and any other additional hardware.
Once you know how much width you will need for these parts, subtract it from the first width measurement you took in step 2 – this will be the width of your gates.
Considerations for different gate type options
There are two other things to consider when measuring for a driveway gate: how many gate doors you will have and whether they will be manual or automated.
Single vs. double gates
Once you have the gate measurement from step 5, you will need to consider whether you want a single or a double driveway gate. The measurement you have will be the width required for a single driveway gate, however, it will need to be halved for double driveway gates – a measurement for each gate.
Check out our handy guide on the pros and cons of single and double driveway gates, for more help in making your decision.
Manual vs. automated gates
The measurements you currently have are perfect for manual gates. However, if you decide you want gate automation instead, you will require additional space considerations for the motor, automation equipment and access control systems.
This is often where many struggle. If so, book a consultation with a reputable driveway gate supplier, who can come and measure for you.
Not sure what driveway gate automation is? Explore our guide on how automatic driveway gates work for more information.
Common driveway gate measurement mistakes to avoid
Measuring for driveway gates isn’t always easy, but following this guide will definitely help. To avoid mismeasuring, be sure to steer clear of these three points:
- Inaccurate tools – The right tools are the bread and butter of this operation. Refer above to our handy tool list to ensure you have the correct equipment.
- Ignoring ground slope – Ground slope can make all the difference when choosing the right driveway gate. Ensure to assess the ground with a level, or consult an expert if you’re unsure.
- Not allowing for hardware – Remember, whilst your driveway gate is the main feature, it’s not the only part of the set-up. Don’t forget step 5 in the guide above and make sure you allow room for all the hardware needed to install and operate the gate.
Ready to find your perfect driveway gate? Check out our blog for driveway gate inspiration and information, or contact us today for our expert advice.