Choosing the Right Electric Gate: Swing, Sliding, and Bi-Parting Options Explained

Choosing the right electric gate for your property involves more than just aesthetic preference; it requires careful consideration of your available driveway space, desired functionality, and security needs. 

We have previously discussed how automated electric gates offer many benefits, including increased security, privacy, convenience, and enhanced property value. However, it is important to note that different electric gate styles come with their own unique advantages and limitations. 

Whether you should opt for a swing electric gate, sliding electric gate, or bi-parting electric gate will depend on a number of factors, from the slope and layout of your driveway to your ideal budget. It’s crucial to assess which option best meets your specific requirements and preferences. If you’re not sure where to start, then you’ve come to the right place! 

In this guide, the team of experts from Windlesham Gates will delve into the benefits and drawbacks of the three main types of electric driveway gates, to help you understand your options and ultimately make an informed decision.

Swing Electric Gates

Swing gates are one of the most common choices for residential properties, especially those with ample driveway space. 

These gates operate by swinging open on hinges (in the same way as a standard door), which means they require a clear area for the gate to move freely. You can see a visual representation of the clearance needed to do so here. 

While traditional swing gates have to be opened and closed manually, automatic swing gates allow you to operate your gate remotely, for example from your vehicle or inside your home. This is achieved through a combination of electricity, gate motors, sensors, and access control systems.

Swing electric gates are usually made from durable yet visually appealing materials, such as wood, aluminium, and wrought iron. With a wide range of design options available, from traditionally elegant or rustic chic to sleekly modern or highly customised, electric swing gates complement many property styles, making them a popular option for homes across the UK.

Main Advantages of Electric Swing Gates

• Simple Mechanism: Swing gates operate with a straightforward hinge mechanism, making them generally quieter and simpler than other electric gate types.
• Cost-Effective: Due to their simple design, swing gates are often more affordable to install and maintain, especially when compared to more complex sliding or bi-parting systems.
• Visually Appealing: Swing electric gates offer a classic, inviting appearance that enhances the curb appeal of your driveway.
• Fully Customisable: The sky is the limit when it comes to customising electric swing gates! With options for different materials, finishes, shapes, sizes, decorative elements, and gate accessories, they can be designed to fit your needs and perfectly complement your property.

Main Disadvantages of Electric Swing Gates

• Require Ample Space: To open fully, swing electric gates need a wide arc of “clearance” area, meaning your property needs to have sufficient driveway or forecourt space. These gates  can therefore be unsuitable for properties in urban areas where space is at a premium - like London - and those with oddly-shaped, short, or narrow driveways.
• Practical Limitations: While installing swing gates does not require entirely level ground, steeply sloped driveways can present a problem. Inward-swinging gates can be designed to accommodate driveways that slope downwards, but if your driveway slopes upwards steeply, swing gates that open inwards are not suitable. It is also important to note that according to UK law, any swing gate that opens outward must do so without obstructing public roads, pavements or footpaths. 

Swing electric gates are a suitable choice if you have a mostly level driveway with space to accommodate the swing area and prefer a traditional look. However, if space is limited, options like bi-parting or sliding electric gates may be more appropriate.

Sliding Electric Gates

Sliding gates, which open and close horizontally along a track, are an excellent option for properties where driveway space is restricted. 

Unlike swing gates, sliding electric gates do not require any swing space, making them ideal for narrow driveways or properties with limited room at the entrance. Visit our blog on electric sliding gates vs. swing gates for a full, direct comparison of these two gate types.

Main Advantages of Driveway Sliding Gates

• Space-Saving: Since they do not require a wide swing area, driveway sliding gates are ideal for properties with restricted space. They are also more effective than
• Suitable for Some Sloped Driveways: Sliding electric gates can be installed on slight slopes where swing gates may struggle due to the incline. This makes them a great solution for hilly properties.
• Extra Security: Sliding gates are difficult to force open due to their secure track mechanism, adding an extra layer of security to your property boundary. 
• Wind Resistant: Compared to swing electric gates, which can be challenging to operate in gusty conditions, sliding gates are much less affected by high winds.
• Contemporary Aesthetic: Sliding gates usually have a sleek, minimalist appearance that complements both contemporary architectural styles and modernised older homes.

Main Disadvantages of Driveway Sliding Gates

• Higher Installation Cost: With a track, an advanced mechanism, and additional hardware, driveway sliding gates are more complex to install than swing gates, so installation typically costs more.
• Slightly More Maintenance: A sliding gate’s track or rail system can accumulate debris, dirt, or snow, which could potentially lead to operational issues if not removed. This means that they may require slightly more maintenance and cleaning than other gate options.
• Restricted Design Options: While sliding gates come in various styles and materials, they have fewer design options for intricate or decorative designs than swing gates.

Sliding electric gates are a practical and secure option for properties with limited space or sloped driveways. However, the increased installation cost and complexity may be a consideration for some homeowners.

Bi-Parting Electric Gates

Bi-parting electric gates are a variation of driveway sliding gates. They still open along a track, but consist of two gate panels - known as “gate leafs” - that slide apart from the centre in opposite directions. You can see how they work for yourself in this video from our Facebook page. 

This style is a compact choice for those who want an impressive, symmetrical entrance but do not want traditional swing electric gates. It is also ideal for properties that have enough room on either side of their driveway to accommodate two small sliding gates, but would not have enough for a single large gate leaf. 

Main Advantages of Bi-Parting Gates

• All the Benefits of Sliding Gates: Since bi-parting gates are essentially just two smaller sliding electric gates that meet in the middle, they offer all of the same benefits, from saving space to providing extra security.
• Ideal for Wide Entryways: For wider driveways and entrances with broad openings, the two panels of bi-parting gates are much more suitable than a single, oversized sliding gate panel.
• Balanced and Fast Operation: The two-leaf design allows for quicker opening and closing of your gate, providing both convenience and efficiency for high-traffic properties. Additionally, distributing the weight of the gate across two panels reduces strain on the motor and tracks, which can improve gate longevity.
• Symmetrical Appearance: Bi-parting gates create a balanced, visually appealing entrance that is ideal for those who want their property to impress visitors.

Main Disadvantages of Bi-Parting Gates

• Higher Cost: Due to the additional hardware and moving parts, bi-parting gates tend to be more expensive than standard single-leaf driveway sliding gates.
• Increased Maintenance Needs: The dual-leaf design can require more upkeep, especially if the gate is heavily used, as there are more moving parts to maintain and two tracks to keep clean.

Bi-parting gates offer a sophisticated, balanced entrance solution for properties with limited space. While they may require a higher upfront investment, the enhanced aesthetic appeal and convenience may be worth it for many homeowners.

Find Your Ideal Electric Gate with Expert Help from Windlesham Gates

Any electric gate will provide enhanced security, convenience, and curb appeal, but selecting the right type of residential electric gate for your property comes down to balancing space, budget, and personal preference. 

Swing electric gates provide a classic, elegant look and are a cost-effective choice for properties with ample space, while bi-parting or sliding electric gates are ideal for homeowners with space-limited or sloped driveways, offering both security and efficiency. 

Consider your driveway layout, aesthetic goals, and budget to determine which gate type best suits your needs.

Contact Windlesham Gates today for expert advice on choosing the perfect electric gate type for your property. Our team can help you assess your space, discuss design options, and guide you through every step of the process to find a gate that’s both beautiful and functional.