Fence gates for Melbourne homes
- saeid sharifzade
- Sep 22
- 4 min read
If your gate drags on the driveway, clangs in the wind, or makes parcel drop-offs a hassle, it’s time to think about fence gates that actually make life easier. At Walnut Fencing, we design and install gates that look sharp, move smoothly, and stand up to Melbourne’s weather, without the maintenance headaches.
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Choose the right gate for your property
Sliding fence gates (driveway workhorse)
Best where the driveway slopes or space is tight.
Wheel + track system with a top guide; can be automated easily.
Benefits: Stable in wind, minimal swing area, excellent for wider spans.
Consider: Clear lateral space for the gate to slide open.
Swing fence gates (single or double leaf)
Classic look for fence gate design that complements heritage or modern homes.
Benefits: Simple hardware, great for level driveways and door fence gate styles at pedestrian entries.
Consider: Needs a clear swing arc; hinges must be sized for weight and wind.
Pedestrian & side access gates
Typically 900–1000mm clear opening for people, prams and bins.
Child-safe latch heights and self-closing options available.
Ideal place to match slats, blades or paling infill for privacy.
Timber paling fence gate (match an existing fence)
Steel-framed paling fence gate prevents sagging and keeps latches aligned.
Perfect for side paths and rear access where privacy matters.
Materials & finishes that go the distance
Steel: Strong, secure, perfect for slim profiles (e.g., blade, rod-top, pressed spear). Hot-dip galvanising + powder-coat for durability.
Aluminium: Light, low-maintenance, ideal for fence gate slats (65×16 or 90×16) and coastal conditions.
Infill options: Vertical blade, flat-top/rod-top, spear-top, aluminium slats (privacy set by slat spacing), or custom patterns to match your fence.
Colours: Popular choices include Satin Black and Monument, or we can match your scheme.
Hardware & automation that make gates effortless
When you build a fence gate (or upgrade one), the right hardware is everything:
Hinges & gudgeons sized to gate weight and wind loads
Drop bolts & magnetic latches for reliable closing
Wheels, ground tracks & guide channels for sliding gates
Lock options: key-lockable, keypad, or intercom integration
Fence gate motors with soft-start/stop, obstacle detection, manual release for power outages, and optional Wi-Fi/app control
Our installation approach (so everything lines up)
We treat fence gate installation like a precision job, not a quick add-on:
Site measure & set-out – We check falls, post locations, pillar plumb, vehicle turning, and latch heights.
Footings & posts – Depth, diameter and reinforcement sized for soil type and wind exposure.
Fabrication & test-fit – Frames are checked on the bench, then again on-site for perfect reveals and clearances.
Automation & controls – Conduit, isolation, and safety beams positioned correctly; we coordinate with a licensed electrician where needed.
Commissioning – Travel limits, force settings, and safety devices tuned; handover with simple care instructions.
Installing fence gate systems properly prevents racking, rubbing and early wear, saving you time and money down the track.
Repair or upgrade? We’ll help you decide
If you need to fix a fence gate (or plan a fence gate repair), look for these tell-tales:
Gate scrapes the ground or hits a high paver
Latch misalignment, gate won’t stay shut
Worn wheels/rollers or a bent track
Motor stops mid-travel, beeps, or refuses to open
Rusted hinge pins or twisted posts
Quick comparison
Gate type | Best for | Stand-out benefits | Consider |
Sliding | Wider driveways, sloped sites | Wind-stable, compact footprint, easy automation | Needs lateral run-back space |
Single swing | Small/medium openings | Simple hardware, classic look | Needs level swing area |
Double swing | Wider, formal entries | Balanced leaves, grand street appeal | Centre stop & precise hinge setup |
Pedestrian/side | Everyday access | Secure latching, privacy options | Compliant latch heights & self-close if required |
Design choices that lift street appeal
Match your fence: Continue the blade, slat, or rod-top language through the gate for a cohesive façade.
Balance privacy & airflow: Tighter slat spacing = more privacy; wider spacing = better airflow and lighter weight.
Think about the approach: For sliding fence gate layouts, ensure clear sightlines when reversing onto the street.
Future-proofing: Even if you start manual, we can prepare the frame and posts for a later motor upgrade.
Why homeowners across South-East Melbourne choose Walnut
Engineered fabrication: Square frames, clean welds, correct bracing, proper coatings.
Local and responsive: Hallam workshop; fast service to Berwick, Cranbourne, Dandenong, Keysborough, Narre Warren, Noble Park, Pakenham, Springvale and surrounds.
One accountable team: From measure to fence gate installation, automation and aftercare—no hand-offs, no guesswork.
Custom solutions: Whether it’s a discreet fence gate door beside your garage or a fully automated driveway entry, we build what suits your home.
Ready to upgrade your gate?
If you’re comparing fence gate companies, talk to the team that fabricates and installs every day. Let’s design a gate that’s secure, smooth and built to last—and looks the part in your street.
Call Walnut Fencing in Hallam to book a site measure and design consult.
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