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When space is tight, it’s easy to assume that electric gates are out of the question – and generally, that couldn’t be further from the truth. Whether you’re working with a narrow entrance, a slope or a short drive, there are plenty of clever solutions available to help you make the most of it.
At North Valley Forge, we’re one of the premier electric driveway gate and railing manufacturing companies in the UK, and we’ve helped countless homeowners install stylish, secure gates even in the smallest of spaces. So, if this sounds like your situation, here’s why you can still enjoy all the benefits of electric gates for your driveway – no matter how compact it may be.
Sliding gates are ideal for tight driveways
If you’re working with a narrow driveway or simply don’t have the space for gates to swing open, sliding gates are an excellent option to consider. These gates move sideways along the inside of your boundary, which means they don’t intrude into your parking space or block the driveway when they open. This clever design maximises your available space, giving you more flexibility and freedom when manoeuvring vehicles.
But the benefits don’t stop there – sliding gates are also a perfect choice for sloping driveways. With swing gates, the angle of the driveway could prevent them from opening properly, or they may hit the ground as they swing. Sliding gates, however, glide smoothly along the edge, even on an incline, making them a more reliable option in those tricky situations.
Make use of built-in safety features
When you’re working with a smaller driveway, that doesn’t mean you have to compromise on safety. At North Valley Forge, our electric gates have optional advanced safety features, such as obstacle detection sensors, which automatically stop the gate if anything – a car, pet, or even a person – gets in its way.
Many of our systems include these features as standard, but it’s entirely up to you whether you want them installed. If you’re working with a more compact space, adding safety systems can provide extra peace of mind and help everything run more smoothly. However, even without them, our gates are designed to deliver dependable security and practical functionality.
Don’t forget drainage and debris
When you’re working with a smaller driveway, every little detail counts. It’s easy to overlook the ground beneath your gates, but fallen leaves, gravel, or even pooled rainwater can cause a real headache when it comes to the smooth operation of your gates – especially with sliding gates. As they slide along a track, any debris or water buildup can interfere with the motion, leading to potential jams or delays in opening and closing.
With limited space, you want to make sure the area around your gates remains clear to avoid these common issues. Installing a proper drainage system can help prevent water pooling and keep the track clear, allowing for smooth operation whatever the weather. Regular checks and clearing of debris like leaves or twigs are simple tasks that can go a long way in keeping your gates functioning properly for years to come.
Give our experts a call
If you’re still unsure whether electric gates will work for your driveway, we’re more than happy to help. Just give us a call at North Valley Forge, and our friendly team will be happy to answer any questions you may have about fitting electric driveway gates on your property, no matter the size of your space. We’re here to make the process easy for you and can offer expert advice to find the perfect solution for you.
At North Valley Forge, we’ve been designing and installing electric gates for over 30 years, and we understand the unique challenges of fitting gates on a small driveway. For more information, you can request one of our free brochures, make an enquiry, or give us a call on 01282 677300. Our friendly team is here to guide you through the process and make sure you get the most out of your small driveway with the perfect electric front gate!
