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Why choose aluminium garden gates over wrought iron or wood? Some may question their strength and aesthetic appeal. The truth is aluminium has a hidden advantage: easy maintenance and longevity.
Whether you’re investing in one soon or seeking ways to care for your existing ones, this guide has you covered. Here, we’ll answer and cover the following:
- Why maintaining gates made from this material is a breeze
- Learn effective maintenance technique
- Understand why it’s simpler compared to iron or wooden alternatives
Let’s explore the secrets to keeping your gates in top shape, shall we?
The Power of ‘Power-Coating’
Aluminium gates have a fantastic quality: they’re naturally weather-resistant, requiring minimal maintenance. This attribute is due to the formation of a natural oxide layer on bare aluminium. It offers some protection against corrosion in return. However, powder coating takes this protection to the next level.
Powder-coating involves applying fine powder to the metal via an electric current. It then creates a robust, weather-resistant shield that seals moisture and air. This process not only enhances durability but also provides a sleek, luxurious finish.
In essence, aluminium gates offer a three-in-one benefit:
- Remarkable corrosion resistance.
- Easy maintenance for your garden or driveway gate.
- A high-quality protective finish that can last well over a decade.
The aluminium material, paired with powder coating, makes maintenance almost virtual. Such a combination ensures your gate remains both functional and visually appealing.
Caring for Your Aluminium Gate
Powder-coating goes a long way in protecting your aluminium gates. However, a little extra care can make a big difference. Even with their durability, insects and bacteria can still harbour. Thus making cleaning and maintenance essential. Here’s how:
Regular cleaning
To prevent wear and tear on the powder coating, clean your gates periodically. Use a mild detergent and a soft cloth or sponge to remove dirt or grime. Aim for cleaning sessions at least once a month. For areas with heavy exposure to dirt and pollutants, do so weekly.
Protecting against minor damage
Aluminium gates are more resilient than wood or wrought iron. Yet, they may still acquire minor scratches. To fix them, you can fill the scratches with aluminium paint after sanding the affected area.
Consider gate openers
Electronic gate openers reduce the risk of scratches and dents, providing added protection. Consider factors like gate size, weight, and the desired level of automation. Opt for reliable brands and ensure that safety features are in place. Well-matched openers enhance the convenience and longevity of your gate system.
With these steps, your aluminium garden gate can maintain its beauty and functionality.
Treating Aluminium Gates
Aluminium gates, often powder-coated for protection, are indeed low-maintenance. However, some components like gate hinges and locks may need occasional attention. Enter WD-40, a handy solution. WD-40 is a versatile lubricant and rust remover. It helps prevent corrosion and eases the operation of gate components.
Treatment guide
Regularly apply WD-40 to gate handles, posts, and hinges. This keeps them functioning smoothly and guards against rust. It’s a simple yet effective way to ensure your garden gate aluminium stays in top condition.
Maintenance is a breeze with the right care, and WD-40 is your trusty ally in this endeavour.
Cleaning Aluminium Gates
Keeping your aluminium anthracite garden gate in pristine condition is a snap. Here’s a simple, effective cleaning routine to keep them looking their best:
- Begin by rinsing your aluminium gates with a garden hose to remove dirt and debris. Avoid pressure washers.
- Use a non-abrasive aluminium gate cleaner and a wet sponge to clean the gates gently.
- For stubborn residue, consider using a non-abrasive brush, but be gentle.
- Rinse the gate once more with a hose to remove any remaining cleaning solution.
- Wipe the gates dry with a soft microfiber cloth.
Top tips: Remember, using pressure washers can compromise the gate’s powder-coating. We recommend sticking to gentle methods. Be cautious with gate cleaners and ensure they are non-corrosive and chemical-free. Opt for non-alkaline cleaners for the best results. For intricate gate patterns, meticulous hand-washing may be required in hard-to-reach areas.
Aluminium vs Wrought Iron Gates
Wrought iron and wooden gates may have sentimental or aesthetic appeal. However, maintaining them can be a labour-intensive ordeal. When it comes to gate choices, aluminium gates emerge as the clear, hassle-free winners.
Wrought iron gates demand:
- frequent washing
- rust removal
- intricate processes involving wire brushes, drills, and various coatings
They are more prone to corrosion due to prolonged air and water exposure. This often leads to paint flaking and rust affecting hinges and moving parts. Neglecting this care could render your gate unusable.
Additionally, wrought iron gates are heavier, incurring higher installation and delivery costs. Sliding wrought iron driveway gates require robust motors for operation.
In contrast, aluminium-made modern garden gates are pre-treated with powder coating during manufacture. As mentioned, this added layer makes the material low-maintenance. They offer elegance and convenience, making them a smart choice for your property.
Aluminium vs Wooden Gates
When choosing between the two, the winner in the maintenance department is clear. Wooden gates, while having their charm, demand significant upkeep. Timber’s susceptibility to temperature and weather changes leads to cracking and rot. Neglected wood gate issues can strain gate motors, too. This, in return, necessitates maintenance for both the gate and the motor.
Moreover, wooden gates require extensive and ongoing maintenance. Even with diligent care, they still succumb to ageing. They also tend to wear more quickly than low-maintenance aluminium gates.
All in all, the aluminium alternative minimises the upkeep hassle.
Round-up
Aluminium gates, whether sliding, driveway, or garden, are incredibly easy to maintain. All thanks to their built-in powder-coating. This coating provides the best of both worlds: 1.) it provides a sleek, weather-resistant finish, and 2.) it relieves you of the burdensome upkeep.
These gates are lightweight and a breeze to install. A huge advantage compared to their iron and wooden counterparts. Such materials demand constant attention and deteriorate faster. So, it’s clear why many favour aluminium gates – like our BillyOh Madrid Pedestrian Aluminium Gate. Explore our range of aluminium pedestrian gates exclusively at Garden Buildings Direct.
And if we’ve got you in the mood for a bit of maintenance, check out these must-have shed tools.
Shop Aluminium GatesFAQs
How much are aluminium gates?
It depends if you’re looking at double aluminium driveway gates or a pedestrian gate. For example, our BillyOh Click A aluminium garden gates start at just £225.00 (inc. VAT).
Are aluminium gates strong?
Aluminium gates are both durable and lightweight. They offer the best of strong iron and steel gates. All whilst being easy to manoeuvre and install. This is because slats of reinforced aluminium have a high strength to weight ratio.
How often should I clean my aluminium gates?
This is up to you, but we suggest semi-regularly. Clean them before a service or after periods of inclement weather like dust or snow. The great thing about aluminium gates is that their powder-coating makes them weather-resistant. This means they’re a lot lower maintenance than other traditional gate options.
Do aluminium gates improve property value?
Whilst an exact percentage increase is sometimes touted at around 4-5% it’s hard to say. What we do know is that security is a major concern when buying a property. And a good aluminium driveway gate can both enhance security and kerbside appeal.
Aluminium gates provide a great return on investment (ROI), especially when paired with an electronic gate opener. All our aluminium gates are compatible with electronic gate openers.
