The Ultimate Guide to Sliding Gates

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 500mm 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 1.5 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 don’t 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

No matter where you are, a few key points should be considered when planning a sliding gate system:

• The required opening width and available space alongside the opening for the gate to slide. Obstacles such as walls, posts, or landscaping might dictate where the gate is installed or require design modifications.
• The gate’s height and material. Heavier gates may need larger steel sections for structural strength and a gate motor with sufficient capacity for automation. Common options include chain link, wrought iron, wood, and aluminum.
• Availability of materials. Most bottom-rail sections are manufactured in standardized lengths, which may limit or influence certain gate dimensions. Avoiding joins in the bottom rail is best practice to maintain the gate’s structural integrity.
• Movement over uneven terrain. For areas with dips or other grade changes, a cantilever gate with extended posts might be feasible, while track-based systems generally require a level path or some degree of site preparation.
• Potential for automation. Even if you do not automate immediately, designing the gate with a motor-friendly structure and laying conduit in advance can simplify a future upgrade.
• Climate. In places with heavy snowfall, track-based gates may not be ideal. In warmer locales such as Phoenix, the main concern is usually wind-blown dust or debris, along with occasional heavy rainfall. Proper installation and periodic track inspection can keep a sliding gate running smoothly for years.

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, on the other hand, offer custom-built gates, which can be 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 a variety of architectural styles and lot shapes can require more 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 them photos, plans, and any relevant measurements. This gives them a clear idea of what you need 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 challenging to picture how a sliding gate will look or operate based on text specifications alone. Technical details like gate weight and part numbers 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 has served the Phoenix, Arizona area for more than two decades, providing commercial and residential clients with exceptional fence and gate solutions. We specialize in custom designs, including cantilever gates, rolling track gates, and gate automation systems. If you’re interested in adding or upgrading a sliding gate, learn more about our Phoenix sliding gate installation services.