What should you consider when choosing a gate?
Safety should be the most important factor. This applies both to the stability of the entire structure and to reducing the risk resulting from a malfunction (for example, trapping people or objects, or uncontrolled lowering of the gate), as well as to the level of protection against potential burglary. Burglary resistance classes are designated from RC1 (the lowest) to RC6 (the highest). Mechanisms protecting users usually include solutions such as a photocell, a soft-stop function, or a lock activated if the spring breaks. Another important factor when choosing a gate is thermal insulation, which is indicated by the heat transfer coefficient U. Legal standards set its maximum value at 1.5 W/(m²·K) (in the case of garage doors for a heated garage). It is also worth paying attention to whether the gate has an automatic operating system—it can make using the outbuilding door considerably easier, especially if the building also serves as a garage. It is best to seek the help of a specialist who can assist in selecting the type of drive, its technical parameters, and a convenient control method. Naturally, one must not forget the final important matter: the gate’s appearance. It should blend well with the colors of the doors, windows, roof, and façade, as well as stylistically match the design of the entire building. If the outbuilding is a separate structure, its style and overall aesthetic should correspond with the residential part.
The most popular types of gates
Depending on the owners’ needs and taste, various types of gates can be chosen for an outbuilding. The main classification criteria are the way the gate opens and closes, as well as the construction of the gate leaf.
Up-and-over gates
One of the most popular types is the single-leaf up-and-over gate. They have a simple construction, are inexpensive and relatively reliable, and are also easy to install. The disadvantage is fairly significant heat loss, although this is not a problem in well-insulated, high-quality models.
Sectional gates
Sectional gates are also very popular. They are divided into overhead models (with horizontally arranged sections that fold beneath the ceiling) and side models (with vertical sections that fold along the building’s side wall). This type of gate takes up little space and is suitable for buildings where the area in front of the door is very limited. In the case of side sectional gates, the disadvantage is that they occupy wall space. Overhead sectional gates, on the other hand, require a relatively high lintel, so they are not suitable for every building.
Roller gates
Roller gates resemble shop roller shutters. They are very airtight and easy to use, and take up very little space—only room for the cassette is required, which can be installed outside or inside the garage. The disadvantage of roller gates is their relatively high price, although less expensive models are also available.
Swing-out gate
A swing-out gate (usually with two leaves) has a mechanism similar to that of an ordinary door. It works well in outbuildings without a separate entrance, since it is possible to open only one leaf, making it easier to use and limiting heat loss. The disadvantage is the large area needed to open the gate, which can be particularly troublesome in winter because the driveway must be cleared of snow beforehand.
Sliding gate
Sliding gates are not very popular because they require a large amount of wall space. However, they work perfectly in wide outbuildings, where the gate leaf can be moved completely to the side. A major advantage of this solution is that, when open, the gate remains outside and does not take up space inside the building.