Installing a driveway gate is one of the most practical upgrades you can make to your home. It improves street appeal, enhances security, and provides better control over who can access your property. But before you commit, it’s important to consider a few key factors, especially when it comes to layout, materials, automation, and design.
Whether you’re replacing an old gate or planning a brand-new install, this guide will help you understand what matters most when choosing the right driveway gate for your property.
1. Driveway Layout: Sliding or Swing Gate?
Your driveway’s shape and space will influence which type of gate will work best: sliding or swinging.
Sliding gates
- Run along a track parallel to your fence line
- Ideal for narrow driveways or properties with limited front-to-back space
- Work well on sloped driveways or uneven surfaces
Swing gates
- Open inward or outward like a door
- Suit wide, flat driveways with clear space to open fully
- Provide a more traditional look for heritage or classic-style homes
At Premier Gates, we custom-build both sliding and swing driveway gates and will help you decide which option is right during your free on-site quote.
2. Manual or Automatic Operation
Another important decision is whether you want your gate to open manually or automatically. While manual gates are suitable for low-traffic driveways or budget builds, most homeowners today choose the convenience of automation.
With an automated gate, you can
- Open and close it from your car, phone, or wall button
- Improve home security with restricted access
- Avoid the hassle of getting in and out during bad weather
Premier Gates includes a free automation accessory package with all automatic driveway gate installations. This includes
- An internal wall-mounted button
- Two handheld remotes
- A wireless external keypad
- A WiFi-enabled smart controller for smartphone access
This full-feature setup gives you flexibility, security, and complete control from day one.
3. Choosing the Right Material for Your Gate
Material choice will affect the durability, maintenance, cost, and appearance of your driveway gate. Here’s a breakdown of the most common gate materials used in residential settings.
Timber Gates
- Offer a warm, natural look
- Can be customised with decorative features
- Require regular staining, painting, and sealing
- Prone to warping, fading, or rotting over time, especially in coastal areas
Steel Gates
- Strong and secure
- Heavy and rigid, suitable for high-security installations
- Prone to rust if not properly treated
- Usually more expensive and harder to maintain long term
Aluminium Gates (Premier Gates Speciality)
- Lightweight but durable
- Naturally resistant to corrosion
- Requires almost no maintenance
- Ideal for automation due to low weight
- Powder-coated for long-lasting colour and protection
At Premier Gates, we specialise in custom aluminium gates, but we understand that many customers love the look of natural timber. That’s why we offer aluminium gates with realistic wood grain finishes, so you get the look of timber without the ongoing upkeep.
Our wide selection of powder-coated colours and textured coatings includes wood grain options that mimic the appearance of real timber. This gives you the beauty of wood with the performance of aluminium.
4. Design and Street Appeal
Your driveway gate plays a major role in how your home looks from the street. A well-designed gate should enhance your property’s style and blend seamlessly with your existing fence, façade, or landscaping.
With Premier Gates, your gate can be customised in
- Horizontal or vertical slat patterns
- A variety of slat sizes for different levels of privacy
- Dozens of powder-coated colours and realistic wood grain finishes
- Optional matching side gates or privacy screens for a cohesive boundary design
To see real examples of what’s possible, check out our project gallery.
5. Security and Access Control
For many homeowners, security is one of the main reasons to install a driveway gate. A strong, lockable gate provides a physical barrier to deter intruders, control vehicle access, and create a safe area for kids and pets.
Automation also plays a big role in security.
- Only authorised users can open the gate
- Keypad codes can be changed at any time
- WiFi-enabled systems let you operate the gate remotely
If you travel often or have delivery drivers and tradespeople visiting, a smart access system gives you more control and flexibility.
6. Council Guidelines and Property Boundaries
Depending on your location, you may need to check local council rules before installing a new gate, especially if it’s at the front of your property and visible from the street.
Some councils may have requirements around
- Maximum gate height
- Boundary setbacks
- Gate movement onto public footpaths
We recommend checking with your local council early in the process. Premier Gates can also help you understand general compliance requirements during your quote.
7. Budget and Long-Term Value
While the upfront cost of a driveway gate depends on materials, size, and automation, it’s worth thinking beyond the initial quote.
- Timber may be cheaper up front, but higher maintenance costs add up
- Steel is secure but can cost more to install and maintain
- Aluminium offers long-term value through minimal upkeep and lasting finishes
Premier Gates provides clear, upfront pricing with no hidden charges. We only use quality materials designed for long-lasting performance in Australian conditions.
Ready to Install Your Driveway Gate?
A driveway gate can completely transform the way you use your home, from convenience and safety to privacy and style. At Premier Gates, we work with you to design a custom solution that fits your space, your home, and your lifestyle.
We install aluminium sliding and swing gates across the Gold Coast, South Brisbane, and surrounding areas, with optional wood grain finishes to replicate the natural beauty of timber without the hassle.
Explore our driveway gates, browse recent projects in our gallery, or contact us to arrange your free quote.