When most people think about getting a sliding gate, they often assume it’s a one size fits all situation. However, there are several different types of sliding gates that use various kinds of hardware and are designed for different applications.
There are also important considerations, including the amount of space the gate requires to slide, the climate, and the type of fence or wall that it connects to. Let’s take a closer look at the different types of sliding gates, how they work, and what might suit your needs.
Sliding Gates with Ground Tracks
In warm regions and interior applications where snow and ice are minimal, many people choose sliding gates that use a ground track. This is particularly true in places like Phoenix, Arizona, where winter conditions are mild and snow is rare. These tracks are typically embedded in a concrete beam and include welded arms for added strength and stability.
Sliding gates designed for ground tracks are often heavier duty. They are constructed with a large rectangular steel section as a bottom rail, incorporating steel wheels that roll inside the track. Because of the substantial weight and the need to accommodate upper guide hardware, these gates are usually installed in a specialized portal post, which is a U shaped post with two vertical sections set into concrete.
Another benefit is that ground track gates generally only need about 500 mm more width than the gate opening size. This means they require marginally more sliding space than the width of the gate itself. If automation is desired, it is usually handled with a rack and gear track system. In the Southwest, it is advisable to keep the track clear of dirt or debris that can get washed in during monsoon storms, ensuring smooth operation year round.
Cantilever Gates
In North America, where snow and ice can be factors in some regions, many sliding gates are designed as cantilever gates. However, in the Phoenix Metro area and other warm climates, cantilever gates are often selected for their ease of operation and minimal maintenance requirements, as they avoid ground level rails that could be affected by debris or shifting soil.
Cantilever gates use post mounted rollers and include a trailer or counterweight equal to about half the gate opening. This arrangement supports and balances the gate as it slides, which means there is no ground track to obstruct or freeze. The main challenge is that cantilever gates require a sliding space approximately one and a half times the gate width, since the gate plus the counterweight must move entirely out of the opening.
Where space is limited, a double cantilever system or a configuration with different leaf sizes may be used. Cantilever gates typically use chain driven operators mounted high enough to avoid snow or floodwater, and they can be constructed from wood, steel, chain link, or other materials. They are often chosen for their reliability and minimal ground level hardware.
Track and Wheel Systems
Several track and wheel systems can be used to create sliding gates. Some systems use a lipped U channel on the gate and either ground or post mounted steel rollers. Each gate typically has multiple posts and hardware to properly support the gate when it is fully open or closed.
In certain cases, often interior or covered installations, a system similar to barn door hardware might be used. This requires a transom or header where the track is mounted, which can reduce the need for a large footprint and might be a cost effective solution when height constraints are minimal. In a desert climate, this type of track and wheel system can be relatively straightforward to maintain, provided the tracks remain free of sand or debris.
One significant advantage of many track and wheel systems is that they do not require a cantilever trailer, so the space required for the gate to slide can be as little as the opening width.
Rolling Track Gates
In North America, another popular option for sliding gates is rolling track gates. These systems rely on horizontal rails attached to the gate frame and specialized brackets with gate carrier wheels. The design allows the gate to roll open or closed with little effort. Often, rolling track gates are installed without automation, making them a good choice for residential properties or areas that do not require powered gates.
They generally only need a bit more width than the gate opening, so they are well suited for projects that have limited side space. Occasionally, a rolling track gate can latch onto a swing gate leaf to create a wider opening without requiring a larger rolling gate structure. This can be convenient in narrower Phoenix area residential lots where space comes at a premium.
Things to Consider When Designing a Sliding Gate
- Available space: The required opening width and the clearance alongside the opening for the gate to slide. Obstacles such as walls, posts, or landscaping might dictate placement or require design changes.
- Gate size and material: Heavier gates may need larger steel sections for structural strength and a motor with sufficient capacity for automation. Common options include chain link, wrought iron, wood, and aluminum.
- Material availability: Bottom rail sections are often manufactured in standardized lengths, which can influence gate dimensions. Avoiding joins in the bottom rail helps maintain structural integrity.
- Grade and terrain: For uneven sites, a cantilever gate with extended posts may be feasible. Track based systems generally require a level path or targeted site preparation.
- Future automation: Even if you do not automate immediately, designing for a motor friendly structure and laying conduit in advance makes upgrades easier.
- Climate: In areas with heavy snowfall, track based gates may not be ideal. In warm, dusty climates like Phoenix, plan for debris management and occasional heavy rain.
Designing a functional, safe, and long lasting sliding gate can be complex. It pays to learn about your options, consult with professionals, and gather as much detail as possible before making a decision.
Custom or Off the Shelf?
If you purchase your sliding gate from a large manufacturer, you may be limited to standard sized gates and might need to adjust your site or fence configuration to match what is available. Some manufacturers offer custom built gates engineered to suit unique site requirements.
Though a custom gate can take longer to produce and may cost more, it is often the right solution for tricky layouts or unusual site conditions. This is especially relevant in the Phoenix area, where architectural styles and lot shapes often require creative approaches to gate design.
How to Get the Best Sliding Gate for Your Project
When you need a sliding gate, your best option is to work with a contractor who understands the engineering and fabrication details. Ask them to inspect your site if possible, or send photos, plans, and measurements. This gives them a clear idea of your needs and allows them to identify potential issues early.
It helps to work with a contractor who can supply design drawings or visual references. If you are not a fence professional, it can be difficult to picture how a sliding gate will look or operate based on text specifications alone. Technical details like gate weight and hardware specs are also important for future automation, repairs, and maintenance.
Keep in mind that it is rarely a good idea to base decisions solely on price. A suspiciously low quote might indicate subpar materials or poor workmanship, which can compromise safety. Prioritize quality and reliability when selecting a sliding gate system.
About Western Fence and Our Sliding Gate Solutions
Western Fence serves the Phoenix, Arizona area with commercial fence and gate solutions. We specialize in custom designs, including cantilever gates, rolling track gates, and gate automation systems. If you are planning a sliding gate, our team can help you evaluate options and design a system that fits your site, climate, and budget.