When ordering custom made metal gates there are more considerations than just choosing the style of the metal gates. The way in which the metal gates are made affects how well they function.
Measuring the Opening
When measuring for a metal gate to be made the clear width between posts is required. A check of the posts for plumbness and a view of the threshold is also necessary. The ground clearance of the gates is also important and must allow for the gates to open and close freely. Uneven ground can cause problems and even a few millimeters can make a big difference.
Agreeing the Design
The design, or specification, of the metal gate will be drawn up once the opening of the gate has been confirmed. This will include such details as the bar spacing, any decorative features, the opening of the gate and the type of ironmongery that is required to complete the gate.
Fabricating the Frame
For more on this, take a look at //donkeywellforge.co.uk/what-we-make/wrought-iron-railings-bespoke-metal-gates.
The frame of the metal gate is made from steel sections that have been cut to size and are then forged and/or bent into the desired shape. The metalwork of the gate is then welded together to form the complete frame of the gate, with any scroll work and/or finials having been made separately and attached to the frame of the gate. For more on Bespoke Metal Gates see //donkeywellforge.co.uk/what-we-make/wrought-iron-railings-bespoke-metal-gates
Protective Finishing
Raw steel, exposed to the elements, will rust. A hot-dip galvanizing process provides a long-lasting, resilient, protective coating to the steel, which is ‘dipped’ into a bath of molten zinc. A powder coating can then be applied on top to provide a coloured, protective finish.
Installation and Adjustment
Get the basics of a gate right, get the hinges at the right height, make sure it will clear the ground within its arc of travel, and then on site, make the necessary adjustments to get the latch to shut the gate properly.
