Several common mistakes can reduce performance, cause operational issues, or shorten the lifespan of a manual swing gate. Avoiding these early on ensures a safe, smooth, and long-lasting installation.
Common mistakes to avoid:
- Incorrect sizing
- Ordering the wrong width or height can lead to restricted access or excessive gaps
- Always measure the clear opening between posts/walls and allow for hinge spacing and swing arc
- Poor hinge alignment
- Misaligned hinges can cause the gate to drag, twist, or bind
- Posts must be set perfectly vertical (plumb) and hinges aligned before fixing
- Incorrect alignment puts unnecessary strain on the frame and fixings
- Ignoring driveway slope or ground levels
- Sloping ground can prevent the gate from opening fully or cause it to catch on the surface
- Solutions include:
- Rising hinges
- Designing the gate to open downhill
- Adjusting ground clearance
- Inadequate clearances
- Not allowing enough space around the gate can lead to scraping or limited movement
- Typically allow 50–100mm clearance at posts and surrounding structures
- Weak posts or insufficient foundations
- Undersized posts or shallow concrete can lead to:
- Movement or leaning over time
- Reduced stability and lifespan
- Posts should generally be embedded 300–500mm into concrete, depending on gate size
- Poor surface preparation
- Installing onto uneven or soft ground can cause long-term misalignment
- Always ensure a stable, level base before installation
- Not considering usage and traffic
- Choosing a light-duty gate for a high-traffic or wide-span application can lead to premature wear
- Match the gate specification to frequency of use and vehicle types
Practical tip
Take time to measure accurately and plan the layout before ordering — most issues come from incorrect assumptions at this stage rather than the product itself.
At Aremco Barriers, our UK-manufactured manual swing gates are supplied with detailed installation guidance, helping ensure correct sizing, alignment, and foundation setup. Built from galvanised and powder-coated steel, they’re designed for reliable performance and long-term durability across driveways, car parks, and industrial access points.
