Whether you’re on a small family farm or you own acres of land for livestock and crops, you can help protect your property with a gate. Follow this farm gate design checklist to get started.

Farm Gate Design Checklist

While you’re planning your farm gate design project, start by asking yourself a few questions:

1. Why do you want the gate? Are you limiting access? Containing livestock? Protecting equipment?
2. What size space are you trying to cover?
3. Will it require single or double doors?
4. How will it function? Swing, slide, or lift? Automatic or manual operation?
5. What type of material is best? Wood, steel, or aluminum?
6. What’s your project time frame?
7. What’s your budget?

Having the answers to this question not only helps you put the project into perspective, but it makes it easier for any contractor to put together a quote.

Gate Design Troubleshooting

Not knowing the answers to the questions above can lead to problems. Some of the most common mistakes made while designing include:

• Gate placement. Without a proper foundation, the gate posts end up sagging or sliding, making it harder to function no matter the material. Plus, if your gate is out in a field, you want to make sure the ground is level enough and won’t flood in poor conditions.
• Materials. From the hinges to the finish, not using the proper components during construction can lead to poor function or maintenance issues.
• Design. Overall, a poorly planned and constructed gate could lead to excessive wear on the equipment and even system failure—leaving you and/or your animals trapped inside or out.

One of the best ways to prevent any problems from happening is having a solid design plan and a professional contractor to implement the build. Not only can a pro help design a gate to fulfill your farm needs, but they have the tools and know-how to do it right the first time.

After going over your farm gate design checklist, contact Security Five for more information on the best way to put your plan into action

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