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What is galvanisation and how can it help your electric gates?

Wetherby Gate

We take great pride in our products here at North Valley Forge, especially our bespoke electric gates. For over 30 years, we’ve been handcrafting these stunning gates using traditional blacksmithing methods passed down through generations of our artisans.

As well as being beautiful, our gates are designed to last for decades. Our expert team employs a variety of different techniques, including galvanising and powder coating, to ensure that our gates are as sturdy as they are stylish.

Curious about why galvanisation is so popular and how it benefits your wrought iron gates? Let’s dive into the process and discover how it helps your gates stand the test of time – and why we recommend it to all our customers!

What is galvanisation?

To put it simply, galvanisation is the process of applying a protective zinc coating to your gates to prevent rust and corrosion. This means your gate (or railings) will become a set-and-forget fixture in your outdoor space that, apart from the occasional wipe down with warm soapy water, doesn’t require any additional maintenance!

The primary reason we galvanise our gates and railing is to increase their lifespan. As strong as steel is, when it’s not galvanised and it’s exposed to the elements, corrosion can happen surprisingly quickly, which weakens the structural integrity of your gates. With this protective coating, on the other hand, your gates will last decades.

The galvanisation process

The most popular method of galvanisation is hot dipping, which follows the British standard EN ISO 1461. The process starts by thoroughly cleaning the steel to remove dirt and debris, creating a smooth surface for the galvanisation. Then, the steel is submerged in molten zinc at a temperature of 449 degrees Celsius.

While submerged, the molten zinc forms a protective coating around the steel. After the coating cools and dries, the gates and railings are then powder-coated. This is done using electrostatic techniques, where powder is applied and then baked in an oven. This process gives your gates and railings a deep, rich colour that enhances their appearance.

When the process is complete, the zinc coating adheres fully to the steel underneath. This creates a protective layer with no gaps for water or debris, so not only are they protected completely from the elements, they won’t rust either, so you don’t have to keep up with a yearly painting schedule for your electric gates!

Now, before we go any further it’s worth mentioning that what we refer to as wrought iron is actually mild steel. These days, very few people use traditional iron because it’s not as strong and tends to rust more easily; the name, however, has stuck! So now, wrought iron gates refer more to the style of the gate rather than the actual material it’s made from.

So, why should you choose galvanised gates and railings?

The galvanisation process effectively creates a strong barrier against harsh weather, preventing rust and corrosion, so you can enjoy your gates for decades without the need for constant maintenance. The smooth finish enhances both the durability of your gates and their aesthetic value, offering a pristine result! Plus, galvanised wrought iron gates (especially electric ones) can even boost your property’s value due to their stylish appearance and dependability as a security asset!

We’ve condensed the benefits of galvanisation into this handy list:

  • Weather resistance – Protects your gates against rust, corrosion, and harsh environmental conditions.
  • Low maintenance – Minimal upkeep required, saving you time and money.
  • Longevity – Helps your gates last for decades, maintaining a pristine look with no deterioration.
  • Enhanced kerb appeal – The sleek, modern finish galvanisation leaves complements any property style.
  • Property value boost – Galvanised gates add long-term value to properties with their durability and aesthetic appeal.
  • They’re an investment – A set-and-forget solution that reduces the need for any costly repairs or replacements over time.

At North Valley Forge, we have over 30 years of experience crafting gorgeous electric gates for driveways. Our skilled artisans use traditional blacksmithing techniques combined with modern engineering to create stunning and durable ironwork that stands the test of time. Every piece we create is custom-made, allowing you to choose from a wide range of designs, from classic Victorian to contemporary styles to anything your mind can conjure. If you can think of it, we can make it!

So, whether you’re looking for a striking entrance or elegant railings, we’re here to help you bring your vision to life. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to get in touch with our team on 01282 677 300. We’re here to help!

The Only Limit is your Imagination

Introducing our Latest Install: A Simple and Timeless Driveway Gate!🚗✨Originally a design for a smaller drive, but the customer loved it so much, they wanted it sized up to make a big statement! Featuring clean, plain bars with classic pointy railheads along the top and bottom, plus square bushes for a touch of detail in the middle section. Powder coated in black, this gate brings a timeless understated elegance that fits any style. Simple, classic and ready to welcome guests in style💫📞01282 677 300
📩sales@northvalleyforge.co.uk
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It's Workshop Wednesday, Halloween style!🎃Today, Ryan's forging some creepy-cool snails and dragonflies out of wrought iron - dressed up of course! We all got into the Halloween spirit and dressed up to raise funds for Burnley FC in the Community, supporting everything from education to cancer rehabilitation and youth programs.
And keep an eye out... a fun Halloween game is coming over your way later!👻🎃Click the link below to donate!👇🏼
https://www.justgiving.com/page/north-valley-forge-1727441293251📞01282 677 300
📩sales@northvalleyforge.co.uk
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With winter around the corner, who wants to leave their car in the cold to open the gate? Now's the perfect time to upgrade with our electric gate servicing! We offer full gate maintenance, automation servicing, and even retrofitting automation for your existing manual gates. Stay cozy and enjoy seamless entry all season long - get in touch to bring warmth and convenience to your driveway 👷🏼‍♀️🛠️📞01282 677 300
📩sales@northvalleyforge.co.uk
🌐www.northvalleyforge.co.uk#gates #drivewaygate #GateAutomationMaintenance #service #AutomationMaintenance #ElectricGate #ElectricGateServicing #RetrofittingAutomation #NorthValleyForge #homesecurity #HomeImprovement #GateRepairs #AutomatedGate
Who says you need a massive driveway gate to make an entrance? Our small driveway gates are perfect for adding style and security, no matter your space. Choose between manual or automatic operation, and with our fully custom designs, you get a gate that's unique to you. Just pick your style, and we'll handle the rest!🌟✨💫📞01282 677 300
📩sales@northvalleyforge.co.uk
🌐www.northvalleyforge.co.uk#HomeImprovement #BespokeDesigns #homesecurity #NorthValleyForge #ElectricGate #fabrication #luxuryhome #luxuryrealestate #LuxuryLiving #Luxury #luxurydesign #installation #homeinspo #irongates #wroughtiron #manufactured #welding #drivewaygate #gates
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