Sliding Gate vs Swing Gate Site Survey
The clear opening alone does not decide whether a sliding or swing system suits a property. Each operating type needs different movement space, supports and site evidence.
Sliding and cantilever considerations
Measure run-back space beyond the opening, ground condition along the travel path, support locations and potential conflicts with pedestrians, fences or parked vehicles. Cantilever geometry can require substantially more side space than the opening width.
Swing gate considerations
Record swing arcs, driveway slope, hinge positions, leaf division and clearances. Check whether opening inward or outward affects public space, vehicles, pedestrians or highway requirements.
Ground, drainage and wind
Tracks and lower components can be affected by debris, ice, water and settlement. Large solid leaves can create significant wind loading. These conditions require product-specific and structural assessment.
Safety-device planning
Consider crushing, shearing, drawing-in, impact and trapping areas created by the chosen motion. Record possible photocell, edge and guarding locations without treating a preliminary survey as the final safety assessment.
Make the comparison traceable
Record why an operating type was proposed and which facts still require confirmation. A clear comparison is more valuable than forcing the first customer preference into an unsuitable site.