The Ultimate Guide to Wooden Driveway Gates
A Pro’s Advice on Design, Installation, Maintenance & More
Known for its natural look and classic appeal, wood is a popular choice for everything from farm and ranch gates to luxury estate driveways. Wooden gates also offer more privacy than iron — their tongue-and-groove construction creates a solid surface free of gaps and spaces.
Wooden Driveway Gate Designs: From Farmhouse to Modern
Wooden gates are well-suited to three common design styles: Traditional farmhouse gates offer a warm and welcoming feel; modern styles show off sophisticated clean lines and angles; and transitional styles incorporate elements of both, straddling the contemporary and the classic.
If you’ve got resale value on your mind — as most homeowners do — don’t go extreme in any one style. Farmhouse and transitional styles generally retain their appeal over time.
Select-grade clear western red cedar is a preferred type of wood because it doesn’t have many knots. Mahogany — a stronger wood with naturally attractive grain patterns — is also commonly used.
A quality wooden driveway gate should be fabricated with a steel frame core and then wrapped with cedar or mahogany. If you’re consulting with gate contractors, be sure to ask if this is how they construct their gates. The steel core is also a big difference between DIY gate installations and professional-quality products.
Color is key to achieving the desired look of your gate, and selecting the right color can make all the difference. For higher grade woods, consider stains to accentuate the natural grain.
Installation & Automation: Getting Your Driveway Gate Up & Running
Gate installation and automation are critical steps that will govern how your driveway gate operates. Think about how you plan to use your electric gate and your contractor should recommend equipment accordingly, whether it’s remote control transmitters, keypads, EZ-Pass- style RFID readers or in-ground magnetic sensors.
Basic gate systems typically come with a remote control, while standard-level installs usually include a transmitter and in-ground sensors. For greater security, consider RFID EZ-pass style activation, a telephone entry system, timed access codes or integrated security camera systems.
Also, be prepared for emergencies — ask about battery back-ups, surge protection and home alarm system integration.
Cost & Maintenance of Wooden Gates
Professionally installed wooden driveway gates have a steel frame, so they’re often more expensive than the most basic iron gate. However, wooden gates have a smaller variation in cost compared to iron gates, which can be much more intricate (and, therefore, expensive).
Both cedar and mahogany are hardy woods known for their longevity. Cedar is naturally resistant to insects and resists rot for longer than other woods. Mahogany is harder than cedar and even more resistant to rot. Regardless of which you choose, plan to paint or stain your wooden gate every 5–7
years.
