Often at times, we think of our driveway gate a necessary feature in our driveway, a continuation of the garden wall or fence or a point of access and exit. We tend to forget that they also contribute to the visual appeal of the property by adding in style and charm. This is often the first thing visitors see when coming to your property; its appearance reflects what you should expect inside. It often gives a good or bad impression.
Which Driveway Gate Should I Choose?
Selecting the best driveway gates lexington ky generally depends on the style and its intended purpose. A simple timber gate that blends with the fence or wall offers an exciting look. On the other hand, a solid timber clad or wrought iron gate offers a wonderful level of privacy and security to your lovely home.
Automated Or Manual
If you intend to go further, you have to keep in mind an automated gate. This means no more hassle for when getting into your home, especially on a wet day. This is the best part that the gate will always remain closed if it’s not in use. An electric gate is a great addition to your property, and it helps you deter any unwanted visitors. But ensure that you get a qualified gate engineer to do the installation for you. There are different options you can choose from deepening on your driveway access and also the slope.
Types Of Gate
Essential driveway gates are usually made from two materials, mainly wood or metal. The metal gates come in different styles and shapes and are usually manufactures in steel or aluminum. The steel gates are traditionally more ornate as the aluminum gates offer the look and appearance of a traditional timber clad gate. It comes at a fraction of the weight without the hassle of the yearly timber maintenance.
Gate Care And Maintenance
Once you get an ideal gate for your driveway, you have to ensure that the gate is given the best protection to keep it appearing new for as long as possible.
Most modern wooden driveway gates are pre-treated to protect the timber from rotting and bug attracts; however, these treatments don’t guarantee all-round protection in all the weather. It does matter if its weather erosion or sun’s UV rays. The product will be degraded with time.
If you are on a quest looking for that natural look, you may have to overcoat any preservative treatment with clear exterior wood oil or decking oil. The products contain a blend of oil, resins, waxes that can penetrate the wood deep down offering and protection against water access. Several of these products contain UV filters, which can help retain the natural color of the timber longer, reducing the chance of fast weathering.
Painting Your Driveway Gate
If you are planning to paint your electric gate lexington ky, you must ensure that any wood preservative used is free from wax, oil, or silicon. Some of the external paint used is water-based if you have any pretreatment that has wax or oil, preventing the paint from adhering to the wood. Always go for quality paint; this is one way to save your time and money.
Wood Stains
The use of an exterior wood stain on the driveway gate is a wonderful way of retaining the natural grain of the timber. Using a light-colored softwood gate, you can stain and seal to provide the color and appearance of the Teak, Mahogany, or even Walnut.
Why Oil Timber Gates?
Just like any other garden wood like sheds, benches, fencing, the best way is to oil the wood as a part of an annual garden maintenance routine. Wood oils can penetrate the wood grain and replace the natural oil that has been lost over time. This helps keep the wood nourished and flexible, at the same time helping to prevent and reduce cracking and splitting. Moreover, several exterior wood oil and decking oil have UV filters that help keep the timber safe from the bleaching effect of the sun.
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