Swing vs Slide?

One of the biggest decisions to make is choosing between the two. Both are viable options depending on the area where the gate will be installed. Both options are explained briefly below.

Swing Gates

We usually recommend swing gates when possible because they are typically safer, have fewer moving parts, are quieter and have a more compact and pleasing look.



FAAC Model 422 Application


Double swing (bi-parting) gates are more aesthetically pleasing, but are slightly more expensive because they require two operators instead of one (one for each gate leaf), and the wiring between the two must be trenched and placed underneath the driveway. To reduce the strain on your equipment, gate openings greater than 12 feet are recommended in a bi-parting configuration.

Slide Gates

Slide gates are definitely another automation option, especially when a swing gate is not possible. For instance, we would recommend a sliding gate when:

• the area that a swing gate would normally open up into
  is limited in some way (landscaping, boulders, etc.) or
  needs to be used for parking.
• the driveway is significantly sloped uphill. Another
  option, however, would be to have the gate swing out
  if possible, away from the house–effectively eliminating
  the need for a slide gate.

Powermaster SG2004 Application

A wrought iron gate, or any type of vehicular gate, equipped with an electric or hydraulic gate operator reliably takes over the opening and closing of the gate. With additional electric and appropriate safety devices, automated gates open smoothly, quietly and within their full width, allowing access across the whole gate area. Using a remote control, intercom unit or other type of access device, the gate can be opened and closed from a distance, without the operator nearby.

At Berkshire Fence Company, we offer a wide range of swing, slide and barrier gate operators which permit adaptation to almost any environment, and allows us to accommodate all the individual needs of our customers.