4 Reasons to Pick Timber Over Metal for Your Garden Gate
Posted on: 21 March 2018
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If your garden can't be accessed from anywhere but your house, you'll obviously need to have a small gate fitted to ensure people can get in and out without impacting privacy and security. When you're choosing a garden gate, one of the first things you'll need to do is decide on a material, and that should come down to timber vs. metal.
Both options have their benefits, but here are just four reasons why you should choose a timber garden gate.
1. Cost
The most appealing of timber's benefits tends to be cost. A timber garden fence is going to set you back far less than one made from metal since timber is a relatively cheap raw material. It also doesn't require expensive machinery or expert workmen to cut it, carve it, and put it together, and installation is usually cheaper since work can happen faster. If you need to stick to a tight budget or simply don't want to spend much on your garden gate, timber is a great way to go.
2. Appearance
Most of the time, cheaper materials will be the worst looking. With a timber garden gate, you get something that costs little and looks good. There's a natural aesthetic charm to timber that blends perfectly with outside spaces; in contrast, a metal garden gate can look a little too formal. Additionally, timber weathers nicely, so it should stay looking good for years. If it's ever scratched or marked, you can sand it down and re-treat it. That's not an option when you go for metal.
3. Privacy
While some timber garden gates use open slats, most incorporate a solid panel design that cannot be seen or reached through. Maximum levels of privacy are achieved, and it's impossible for small animals to squeeze their way through into your garden. Metal gates can be solid, but this tends to look unattractive, and the weight of a solid metal door often requires more heavy-duty fixtures. As such, it may be tough to achieve the level of privacy you're after if you choose a metal garden gate.
4. Versatility
Finally, keep in mind that timber can be stained or painted according to your wishes. If you want, you can change your gate's appearance to provide a unique look to your home. Metal gates usually come pre-treated, meaning you can't simply add a lick of paint to have them match your property.