FAQ

Can I automate my gates and how much does it cost?
You should always get quotes from reputable gate installers. We can recommend suitable companies in most areas.
There are two ways to automate the gates. You can use a ram arm which is the cheapest method. The disadvantage of this is that the ram is visible through the gate. Alternatively you can use an underground motor and sit the gate on a shoe on the arm of the motor. Cost for this varies with the quality of the motor and factors such as availability of electricity points.

The gates do not fit my driveway – what can I do?
There are various ways that we can retro fit the gates. In Victorian times it was common to have one long driveway leaf and a smaller pedestrian size gate. This can often be seen by examining locking and pivot points on the floor of the driveway. This can still be achieved if you have a particularly small driveway of say 8 or 9 feet width. We also have a variety of posts that can be used of different thicknesses and adjustable hinge plates. For very large driveways we can add extra pedestrian gates and railing infill panels. There is not a driveway yet that we have not been able to supply. If you have any doubt please contact us for advice.

Why are the gates not supplied in a painted condition?
Our products are very heavy and as such even with the upmost care and diligence it is quite conceivable that they will get scraped and scratched during installation and transportation. If the gates were supplied painted this would compromise the final finish. We therefore supply them with a zinc base primer and oil based undercoat ready for final painting after installation.

What type of paint should I use?
We recommend an appropriate long wearing, high quality latex or alkyd enamel top coat. This can be done by brushing, rolling or spraying. Care should be taken to follow the paint supplier’s recommended guidelines.

Why do you offer both root fixing and plate gate posts?
We offer plate fixing posts for manual operation and for use with automation arms. The root fixing posts are suitable for use with underground automation systems as the motor can sit next to the post and the pivot point of the gate post is not compromised by the plate.

Why should I use cast iron products?
There are many reasons. Cast iron is a very durable material. Take a look at neglected examples of Victorian metalwork which still exist today. Buying cast iron is a long term purchase and will outlast mild steel every time. To restore the historic integrity of your project by using materials on a like for like basis, many Councils operate a grant scheme for such projects.

My wall is on a gradient, can I use railing?
It depends on the pattern of the railing. Gentle gradients can be accommodated by decorative railings such as the Terrace and Prospect collections. However linear railings such as Stewart and Stirling are not so well suited. To use these railings on slopes the wall top should be level and then stepped to accommodate the gradient. The railing can accommodate the steps with the use of intermediate posts.

Can the railing deal with curves?
Yes, because the railing is supplied in quite short sections, the joints can be angled to deal with curves.

I have a specific design, can you make it?
We have the capability to make any design and are constantly looking for new designs. Obviously new designs incur pattern costs but these will be subsidised for larger jobs or if we think the design is commercially viable to include in our range.

Contact Us
Sending