DRIVEWAY GATES HUNG BETWEEN WALLS

Correct installation is essential for driveway gates hung between walls. Quality, well-made gates will only perform as intended if they are properly supported, aligned and fitted using the right hardware.

Careful attention to hinge positioning and fitting clearances will help ensure smooth operation, minimise unnecessary strain on the gate and fittings, and allow for the natural movement of timber throughout the seasons. Taking the time to install a gate correctly can significantly improve its performance, appearance and long-term durability.

These are guide recommendations and are not full instructions for hanging gates. Please note gates from our Prestige Range are for automation only due to the weight of the gates.

Gate hinge positions & gate fitting tolerances

Gates with three straight rails

Hinges positions pair of driveway gates hung between walls

A = 30″ 2-way adjustable band & hook hinge set | B = Third set smaller 2-way adjustable hinges | C = Ring latch
D = Pair of drop bolts (one for each gate) | E = Fixing post

Gates with two straight and one curved rail

As the gates are a natural material, some movement may occur with changes in temperature and humidity. The hinges (A) can be adjusted to allow for seasonal movement in the timber.

The gates should always be hung with the bracing rising up from the hanging stile. A minimum of 50mm ground clearance should be allowed.

We recommend that an experienced installer fit manual gates. Automated gates require a heavy-duty bottom rail. They should be installed and commissioned by a qualified gate automation specialist.

Fitting tolerances - top view

2 Double gates hung between wooden posts TOP VIEW

If the gate is rebated the same tolerances apply.

Measurements are based on the fittings supplied by Charltons and are intended as a guide.

*We do not recommend that the gates are left open for any length of time. If the gates are being left in the open position, an extra socket should be fitted so that the drop bolt can be used to secure the gates whilst open, with no pressure being put on the hinges, so that the gate does not bend or blow shut and cause injury or damage. Drop bolts must be installed using the supplied socket set. Leaving the drop bolt loose, especially in gravel, can lead to the gate warping or being damaged.

Drop bolt to be used if driveway gate is to be left open

These gates are not designed for use at field entrances. Vegetation growing beneath the gate can retain moisture and lead to water ingress where it comes into contact with the timber.

Bi-fold installations are not recommended, as the additional stresses placed on the joints may affect performance and invalidate the warranty.

Gate opening

Hinges positions below are shown with gate in the open position. The position of the hinge will determine how far the gate opens (assuming no object blocks the swing of the gate).

Hinge position - driveway gates hung between walls

Gates should not open onto a public highway or pavement in accordance with the Highways Act 1980

Gate hinge & fitting recommendations

British Standard BS EN 12604 states a gate should not be capable of falling through single point failure. One hinge breaking would be a single point failure that causes a catastrophic failure of the gate. This is the technical term taken from the standard. Therefore, it is recommended a third hinge should be used. For curved top gates this can be a smaller one way adjustable hinge with a narrow plate to give the second adjustment.

30'' 2-way band & hook adjustable hinges (load bearing of 80kg per hinge)

Ring latch

Drop bolt and socket set

Extra socket set if gates are to be left open

1 way adjustable pin on plate hinge with narrow plate for second adjustment

1-way adjustable hinge with narrow plate for second adjustment for curved top gates

If the gates are to be automated; Standard gate fittings should be suitable; however, please consult your automation specialist, as automated gates may require alternative fittings.

Gate automation

Automated gates require a heavy-duty rail. This is required for the gate to withstand the stresses of the automation movement. They should be installed and commissioned by a qualified gate automation specialist who must ensure it complies with the Supply of Machinery (Safety) Regulations 2008

As the owner of an automated gate, you are technically the owner of a machine, which just like your car requires routine maintenance. The gate should be checked over by a qualified installer every six months as a minimum.

More details can be found HERE

Gate Treatment

To give full protection to your softwood or hardwood gate please treat with a modern UV Oil for planed timber such as Osmo. It will repel the water and stop the wood drying out unevenly, which can lead to warping. Softwood gates are already treated with preservative (please note preservatives are water based and using these alone is not suitable protection as the preservatives can be washed out of the wood in the rain).

For more information please visit our treatment pages HERE

Gate Maintenance

Manual Gate Maintenance

Manual installations should be supported by a regular maintenance regime. The time lapses between maintenance checks will be largely determined by the amount of usage the gate is expected to tolerate. A low usage situation would represent up to 50 operations a day. Low usage gates should be checked at least every 12 months. If there are any changes in the gate, for example, if the gate drags on the ground, this could be a sign that urgent attention required to avoid compromising the safety of the gate.

Challenging weather conditions, such as high winds/gales and heavy rain can cause damage to a gate and/or affect the foundations. Routine checks should always be made once the bad weather has subsided. The following should be checked:

Review hinges for signs of excessive wear and tear e.g. damage, cracking
Check the foundations for any signs of movement
Look out for any indication that the material from which the gate has been crafted has in any way been compromised e.g. gates showing signs of excessive cracks
Check that all ancillary equipment e.g., drop bolts and catches are working as expected. If any is classed as featuring in excess of 15% damage, a replacement should be considered

Automated Gate Maintenance

Automated gates must be installed by a fully qualified installer who must ensure it complies with the Supply of Machinery (Safety) Regulations 2008
As the owner of an automated gate, you are technically the owner of a machine, which just like your car requires routine maintenance. The gate should be checked over by a qualified installer every six months as a minimum.

More details can be found at Gate Safe

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