In Lutz, a gate often has more to do than let people through. Boat trailers, riding mowers, golf carts and the occasional tractor all need a way into the backyard, and the gate is the part of the fence that gets used every day.
Pick the gate by what has to fit through it
A 4' walk gate handles people and push mowers. A 5' gate fits most riding mowers and wheelbarrows comfortably. If a trailer, boat, golf cart or truck needs backyard access, a double drive gate of 10' to 12' or wider is the usual answer, with two leaves that swing open from the center and a drop rod to hold the inactive side.
Gates for bigger Lutz lots
On one-acre and larger lots, we often add a second gate: a walk gate near the house and a 12' double drive gate at the back for equipment and boats. Where the drive runs uphill or over grass, a cantilever slide gate avoids the swing-clearance problem altogether.
Swing or slide
Swing gates need clear ground for the leaves to travel. On a slope, or where a driveway or landscaping is in the way, a cantilever slide gate is often the better fit. It rolls sideways on a track mounted to its posts, with no wheels on the ground, so grade changes and gravel don't matter. Slide gates need room alongside the opening for the gate to travel back, which we measure on site.
Hardware that lasts
Most gate problems come from hardware, not the fence. We hang vinyl and wood gates on steel or aluminum gate frames that resist sagging, set gate posts deeper and in more concrete than line posts, and use stainless or coated hinges and latches that stand up to Florida humidity. For pools, gates are self-closing and self-latching and open away from the water.
