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Swing vs slide vs vertical lift
| Swing | Slide | Vertical lift | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Space needed | Room to swing open | Room beside the drive | Almost none |
| Sloped driveways | Hard uphill | Good | Good |
| Snow and ice | Needs a clear swing path | Cantilever avoids a track | Lifts above drifts |
| Look | Classic, grand | Clean, modern | Striking, unique |
| Starting price* | $$$ · from $6,000 | $$$ · from $8,000 | $$$$ · custom quote |
*Starting prices in Utah, not a quote. Your price depends on your property. See the full cost guide.
Swing gates
Swing gates: the classic entrance.
Single or double swing gates open like doors and create the most traditional, grand look, especially with stone columns and custom metal panels.
They need clear, fairly level space to swing open, so they're best on flat or gently sloping driveways with room behind the gate. In Utah, plan for snow: the swing path needs to stay clear in winter.
Slide gates
Slide gates: for tight or sloped drives.
Slide gates roll sideways along the fence line, so they work on short driveways, slopes and drives that open right onto the street.
Track-style slide gates ride on a rail across the driveway, which can collect snow and ice. Cantilever slide gates hang off rollers beside the drive with nothing on the ground, which is the better choice for most Utah winters.
Vertical lift
Vertical lift gates: the smallest footprint.
Vertical pivot gates like the LazyGate rise straight up, so they need almost no space in front, behind or beside the drive. They work where swing and slide gates can't, and they make an unforgettable entrance.
Because the gate lifts rather than sweeps, snow drifts across the driveway are less of a problem. Custom panels with family names, monograms and laser-cut designs can be built right in.
Power
Hard-wired or solar?
Hard-wired openers are the most reliable choice for busy driveways and gates near the house. Solar makes sense for long rural driveways and ranch entrances where running power is expensive.
Utah gets plenty of sun, but winter days are short, so solar systems need properly sized panels and batteries. We size solar setups for how often your gate actually opens.
Access and safety
Access controls and safety.
Most gates use a mix of remotes, a keypad for guests and deliveries, and an automatic exit sensor so you can drive out without pressing a button. Phone and app control, intercoms and card readers are popular upgrades.
- Safety sensorsPhoto eyes and edge sensors stop or reverse the gate if a car, person or pet is in the way.
- UL 325 operatorsChoose operators that meet the UL 325 safety standard for automatic gates.
- Manual releaseEvery gate should have a way to open it by hand during a power outage.
- Emergency accessMany cities and fire departments require a way for first responders to open the gate.
Keep reading
Related pages.
FAQ
Questions, answered
Don't see your question? Send it with your estimate request and we'll get back to you.
What type of automatic gate is best for a sloped driveway?
Slide gates and vertical lift gates handle slopes best. Swing gates can work on gentle slopes but struggle when the driveway rises behind the gate.
Do automatic gates work in Utah snow?
Yes, with the right choice. Cantilever slide gates and vertical lift gates avoid ground tracks and swing paths that fill with snow. Swing gates need their swing area kept clear.
Are solar gate openers reliable in Utah?
Yes, when the panel and battery are sized for winter's shorter days and how often the gate is used. Hard-wired power is the most reliable for very busy gates.
How much does an automatic gate cost?
Complete automatic swing gate systems typically start around $6,000 and slide gates around $8,000, including the gate, opener, sensors and controls. Size, materials and options affect the final price, and vertical lift gates are quoted per project.
Can you automate my existing gate?
Often, yes. If the gate and posts are strong and in good shape, we can add an opener, safety sensors and access controls.
By appointment
Get expert advice for your property.
Tell us about your property. We'll meet on site, walk you through every option and deliver a detailed proposal, complimentary and with no obligation.