Costs to Install Front Door with Sidelights
Written by webtechs

Costs to Install Front Door with Sidelights 2024

Cost to Install Front Door with Sidelights

ARIZONA’S LEADING DESIGNER OF CUSTOM FABRICATED WROUGHT IRON & STEEL PRODUCTS

Cost to Install Front Door with Sidelights

Average Cost:

  • $2,336 – $3,526: This is the typical range for installing a new entry door with sidelights in Mesa, according to Homewyse.

Factors affecting cost:

  • Door and sidelight materials:
    • Steel: Most affordable option, typically ranging from $700 to $3,700 for the entire unit.
    • Fiberglass: Durable and weather-resistant, costing between $700 and $5,000.
    • Wood: Classic and elegant, but most expensive, ranging from $1,500 to $5,000.
  • Sidelight style: Full-lite (glass reaching the full height) is common, while half-lite (glass only on the top half) might be slightly cheaper.
  • Door size and number of sidelights: Larger doors and more sidelights naturally increase the material and labor costs.
  • Door features: Additional features like decorative glass inserts, knockers, or handles can add to the price.
  • Installation complexity: Removing the existing door, framing adjustments, and electrical work for doorbells or sidelight lighting can affect the labor cost.
  • Labor costs: Contractor rates can vary based on experience, reputation, and local market factors.
  • Permits and inspections: Depending on local regulations, permits and inspections might be required, adding to the overall cost.

Cost to Install Front Door On YouTube

Front Door w/ Sidelights Quotes In Phoenix, Arizona

Are you thinking about installing a front door with sidelights in Phoenix, Arizona? Victory Metal Works offers professional and affordable front doors with sidelights and double front doors with sidelights in many areas of the Phoenix, Arizona area. Give us a call today to discuss your front entry door 480-584-6220.

Schedule a Consultation Today!

VMW is Arizona’s leading manufacturer of custom wrought iron stair railings and fences for projects in Scottsdale, Paradise Valley and the Greater Phoenix area. Call 480-584-6220 to get your project started today!

Written by webtechs

Costs to Install Front Door with Sidelights 2023

Cost to Install Front Door with Sidelights

ARIZONA’S LEADING DESIGNER OF CUSTOM FABRICATED WROUGHT IRON & STEEL PRODUCTS

Cost to Install Front Door with Sidelights

On average, the cost to install a front door with sidelights is about $2,280 with costs ranging from $1,802 to $2,759 in the US for 2023, according to HomeWyse.

This front door installation cost estimate includes:

  • The cost of material, equipment, and transportation
  • The cost of preparing the site for front door with sidelights installation
  • The cost of labor, setup time, and any hourly charges

This front door installation cost estimate does not include:

  • The cost to remove or relocate framing, HVAC, plumbing, or electrical systems if needed
  • The cost of testing for hazardous materials if needed
  • The cost of having a general contractor supervise the project
  • The cost of tax on supplies and materials
  • Inspection or permit fees required for your project

Entry Door with Sidelights Prices According to Home Advisor

It costs an additional $500 to $2,500 to install sidelights next to a front door according to HomeAdvisor. Learn more about of cost of different types of entry doors with sidelights:

  • Steel front door with sidelights cost: $700 to $3,700
  • Fiberglass front door with sidelights cost: $700 to $5,000
  • Wood front door with sidelights cost: $1,500 to $5,000

Learn more about the cost to install an entry door with sidelights.

What Are Front Doors with Sidelights?

Sidelights are small matching windows installed next to your entry door and run from the bottom to the top of the frame.

Cost to Install Front Door On YouTube

Front Door w/ Sidelights Quotes In Phoenix, Arizona

Are you thinking about installing a front door with sidelights in Phoenix, Arizona? Victory Metal Works offers professional and affordable front doors with sidelights and double front doors with sidelights in many areas of the Phoenix, Arizona area. Give us a call today to discuss your front entry door 480-584-6220.

Schedule a Consultation Today!

VMW is Arizona’s leading manufacturer of custom wrought iron stair railings and fences for projects in Scottsdale, Paradise Valley and the Greater Phoenix area. Call 480-584-6220 to get your project started today!

Written by webtechs

Metal Stair Railings Options!

Popular Types Metal Stair Railings

ARIZONA’S LEADING DESIGNER OF CUSTOM FABRICATED WROUGHT IRON & STEEL PRODUCTS

When deciding on metal stair railing for your Scottsdale or Phoenix home there are a lot of choices, and it can become challenging. There are several factors to consider, with safety being the first. You want to choose a stair railing with enough support, durability, and dependability to ensure the safety in your home or business if someone falls or slips. Another area to consider is maintenance required with metal stair railings. Finally, the appearance of metal stair railings is often important to property owners, as it should compliment the personal style and design of the property.

Although wooden stair railings have been popular for years, they lack in areas metal railings exceed in. For instance, a wooden stair railing will not be able to provide the long-term durability you get with metal stair railings, or the overall support and strength. After all, the purpose of a stair railing is supporting people that may grab it for support. If an elderly person, child or anyone slips and grabs a stair railing, you want it to support their weight. Metal stair railings offer this dependability more than wood stair railings can.

If you’re looking into a metal stair railing, but not sure which option is best for your needs, the following may help you. You want to find a balance between the functions of a railing and the appearance, so you have something that looks beautiful, but safe and dependable when needed in your Phoenix home or business.

Popular Types Metal Stair Railings

Types of Metal Stair Railings

The various types of metals available, a metal stair railing offers many ways to customize it and your home. The metal you choose can separate your exterior or interior design, or make it all come together and look attractive. With each type of metal comes a different finished look, and some metals are naturally going to have anti-microbial properties to assist in keeping your guests and family healthy. To learn more about the type of finish, style, and type of metal is best for your project, it is best to understand each type of metal stair railing available.

Stainless Steel Stair Railing

If you are trying for a more modern look that looks amazing, a stainless-steel metal stair railing may be the best approach. You will get a clean and polished meta stair railing, which is corrosion and rust resistant. These are factors that make it a great option for both interior and exterior railings. These types of railings are created from chromium and steel, using cables, pipes, and tubes to create a dependable stainless-steel stair railing that fits your interior. When finished, they can be one of a kind to be a focal point of your property. Stainless steel railings will match other stainless-steel appliances within your home, making the installation compliment your overall style and design. Also, stainless steel stair railings provide the option of finishes that best fit your needs. If you prefer a muted satin, or a polished mirror finish that’s very reflective, the choice is yours.

Aluminum Stair Railing

If you are searching for affordable metal stair railing for a Phoenix property, you may prefer an aluminum option. These types of metal stair railings are corrosion and rust resistant, and less expensive compared to stainless steel and wrought iron options. Aluminum can be used indoors or outdoors, and they provide a good weight to strength ratio, meaning they will be strong and dependable, but a lighter weight installation. Aluminum stair railings can be customized, with various finishes available, from muted satin, painted or polished appearances. If you desire a reflective polish finish, you should be aware there is a little more maintenance required to maintain it’s vibrant appearance. Whereas, painted aluminum stair railings offer homeowners the ability to perfectly match any interior design theme. Muted satin finishes assist in hiding fingerprints on your metal stair railing.

Brass Stair Railing

Made from copper and zinc, brass stair railings are another option available in a range of colors. Color options range from yellow or golden to red or brown shades, depending how the metal is created. For many years, brass has been used on some of the nicest buildings around Scottsdale, AZ. This is because not only is it a timeless metal, it offers unique elegance and a classic look. However, a brass stair railing will require some maintenance care to ensure it does not tarnish and continues to look brilliant. It also offers a natural anti-microbial property.

Copper Stair Railing

Cooper stair railings offer a warm and rich appearance which are often used for bringing the interior of a home to life. Although, they can be used outdoors as well. When choosing copper, the overall cost will be more, but many business and home owners enjoy the look of copper stair railings, which start with a reddish or golden-brown hue. However, due to exposure to the environment over time, copper naturally develops a green patina that acts as a layer of protection against corrosion. Like with a brass stair railing, copper also provides anti-microbial properties to assist in health.

Wrought Iron Stair Railing

Wrought Iron is a metal that many have preferred using for centuries, including home owners, craftsmen, builders, and commercial property owners. Wrought iron stair railings provide a wonderful finish while providing the ability to incorporate rather intricate designs for a custom appearance. Wrought iron is a very strong and durable metal, meaning it will provide the supported needed and last a long time. Usually a wrought iron railing has a black finish, but they can have other finishes to match your needs, including shimmery silver or golden hues. If you prefer you can go with a minimal and clean design, or a more complex custom scroll work to make your new wrought iron stair railing your very own one of a kind masterpiece. Although wrought iron can be installed indoors or outdoors, keep in mind that iron can easily rust from weather conditions and require more care than other metals.

Staircase Railing Installation in the Phoenix Valley

If you have a residential or commercial property that needs a stair railing Victor Metal Works can help!  We will discuss the style, metal, and look you want for your property. We pride ourselves on being able to capture the specific style that is traditional, modern, eclectic, or any other inspiration you might have.  For more information about getting a new staircase installed call 480-584-6220.

Schedule a Consultation Today!

VMW is Arizona’s leading manufacturer of custom wrought iron stair railings and fences for projects in Scottsdale, Paradise Valley and the Greater Phoenix area. Call 480-584-6220 to get your project started today!

Written by webtechs

Fabricating Wrought Iron Staircase Railings

Fabricating Wrought Iron Staircase Railings

ARIZONA’S LEADING DESIGNER OF CUSTOM FABRICATED WROUGHT IRON & STEEL PRODUCTS

A wrought iron railing helps to increase safety, preventing people, especially pets and children from falling off decks, stairs, balconies, or other elevated areas. Railings are commonly used on porches, catwalks, and other places people tend to spend time above ground level. We can help design, fabricate and then install the wrought iron railings you want and help prevent injuries due to a fall.

Experience is needed to fabricate wrought iron staircase railings, using welding techniques, practice and special tools. These are just the basics of what is required when creating wrought iron railings.

Fabricating Wrought Iron Staircase Railings

What Makes A Staircase Railing?

Typically, a wrought iron staircase railing is created with panels. They are often rectangular, but metalworkers can create creative and customized railings. The panels are designed for installation on existing walls, newel posts, or other types of features.

There are four basic staircase railing sections:

  • Balusters – These are vertical parts which commonly go between the bottom and top railing. The balusters purpose is to prevent pets and children from falling by not allowing access under the top railing.
  • Top and bottom railings – These are the staircase railings backbone. These are the parts which hold balusters in position. They also allow people to rest on them for balance and support.
  • Newel posts – These are vertical anchors which are placed in the home’s structure to offer staircase railings additional support. Newel posts are created using either wood or metal.
  • Termination plates – These are the locations the end of railings is secured to architectural elements, such as walls.

Building Wrought Iron Staircase Railings To Code

As with most modern construction, staircase railings also have codes which must be followed. There are specific codes for each municipality regarding the construction of staircase railings. The majority of staircase railings require a certain height, usually around 36-inches to 38-inches from top to bottom railing. Many codes require a gap between the staircase surface and bottom railing. Typically, this gap will be around 3-inches.

To ensure the safety of small children and pets, balusters are generally spaced a max of 4-inches on the center. This means, measurements do not go from material edge, but from the center of each baluster. Depending on the fabricator, some prefer to make wrought iron staircase railings with smaller gaps between the balusters for additional safety. While this means more balusters are used, the additional cost is worth the safety precautions.

The codes regarding strength of staircase railings often state railings must have the ability to support a constant weight of 50lb per linear foot. Meanwhile, they have to withstand concentrated loads of at least 200lbs to ensure railings will support an adult that may have lost balance. These strengths are simple to attain using proper welding techniques.

Designing Wrought Iron Staircase Railings

In this stage, the builder is able to use their imagination and get creative. When it comes to design styles, there are no limits. There is an endless amount of customization and detail work which can be applied to make the railings fit the style of a home or business. With today’s technology, clean minimalistic lines can be used for an ultra-modern design. If you desire, a more traditional style can be achieved as well.

There are various homes featuring staircases that were fabricated using creative metal artists. With an experienced metal artist, wrought iron staircases can become a one of a kind art piece that includes fascinating and unique details. The metal has the ability to be crafted to resemble natural elements, which can provide your home with warmth.

When you work with a professional designer and fabricator with experience the overall process can be simplified. Although, when having full creative control is an exciting part of the process, and doing your own welding can provide you full range.

Welding Wrought Iron Staircase Railings

There are various styles, methods, and equipment used for welding. There’s MIG welding, TIG welding, ARC welding, stick welding, among others. It does not matter what type of welding you decide to use for the wrought iron staircase railing, the important factor is that it is holding all the parts in position as they are welded. If you’re new to welding with little to no experience, it is best to get instruction and training by a qualified trainer prior to starting the project. This teaches the various elements of electricity, gasses, and heat used in welding, which need to be considered to prevent things from becoming dangerous.

When welding the wrought iron staircase railing, you’re going to follow the determined design by laying all components out in a safe, wide work space. From here, you begin securing each part together using your welding clamps. This is what holds the various parts together while welding.

Custom Wrought Iron Staircase Railings In Phoenix AZ

When you want a customized or detailed wrought iron staircase railing, Victory Metal Works is here to help eliminate the guess work when it comes to the design and fabrication process in the Phoenix region. We offer our services to the Phoenix Valley area, but the fabrication shop is located in Scottsdale. If you’re considering having a custom wrought iron staircase installed, give our experienced professional wrought iron team a call. We can assist with the whole project, from design, fabrication to the installation. Call today at 480-584-6220 or visit our shop at 8350 E. Evans Rd. Suite B-2 in Scottsdale.

Schedule a Consultation Today!

VMW is Arizona’s leading manufacturer of custom wrought iron stair railings and fences for projects in Scottsdale, Paradise Valley and the Greater Phoenix area. Call 480-584-6220 to get your project started today!

Written by webtechs

Popular Types Metal Stair Railings

Popular Types Metal Stair Railings

ARIZONA’S LEADING DESIGNER OF CUSTOM FABRICATED WROUGHT IRON & STEEL PRODUCTS

When deciding on metal stair railing for your Scottsdale or Phoenix home there are a lot of choices, and it can become challenging. There are several factors to consider, with safety being the first. You want to choose a stair railing with enough support, durability, and dependability to ensure the safety in your home or business if someone falls or slips. Another area to consider is maintenance required with metal stair railings. Finally, the appearance of metal stair railings is often important to property owners, as it should compliment the personal style and design of the property.

Although wooden stair railings have been popular for years, they lack in areas metal railings exceed in. For instance, a wooden stair railing will not be able to provide the long-term durability you get with metal stair railings, or the overall support and strength. After all, the purpose of a stair railing is supporting people that may grab it for support. If an elderly person, child or anyone slips and grabs a stair railing, you want it to support their weight. Metal stair railings offer this dependability more than wood stair railings can.

If you’re looking into a metal stair railing, but not sure which option is best for your needs, the following may help you. You want to find a balance between the functions of a railing and the appearance, so you have something that looks beautiful, but safe and dependable when needed in your Phoenix home or business.

Popular Types Metal Stair Railings

Types of Metal Stair Railings

The various types of metals available, a metal stair railing offers many ways to customize it and your home. The metal you choose can separate your exterior or interior design, or make it all come together and look attractive. With each type of metal comes a different finished look, and some metals are naturally going to have anti-microbial properties to assist in keeping your guests and family healthy. To learn more about the type of finish, style, and type of metal is best for your project, it is best to understand each type of metal stair railing available.

Stainless Steel Stair Railing

If you are trying for a more modern look that looks amazing, a stainless-steel metal stair railing may be the best approach. You will get a clean and polished meta stair railing, which is corrosion and rust resistant. These are factors that make it a great option for both interior and exterior railings. These types of railings are created from chromium and steel, using cables, pipes, and tubes to create a dependable stainless-steel stair railing that fits your interior. When finished, they can be one of a kind to be a focal point of your property. Stainless steel railings will match other stainless-steel appliances within your home, making the installation compliment your overall style and design. Also, stainless steel stair railings provide the option of finishes that best fit your needs. If you prefer a muted satin, or a polished mirror finish that’s very reflective, the choice is yours.

Aluminum Stair Railing

If you are searching for affordable metal stair railing for a Phoenix property, you may prefer an aluminum option. These types of metal stair railings are corrosion and rust resistant, and less expensive compared to stainless steel and wrought iron options. Aluminum can be used indoors or outdoors, and they provide a good weight to strength ratio, meaning they will be strong and dependable, but a lighter weight installation. Aluminum stair railings can be customized, with various finishes available, from muted satin, painted or polished appearances. If you desire a reflective polish finish, you should be aware there is a little more maintenance required to maintain it’s vibrant appearance. Whereas, painted aluminum stair railings offer homeowners the ability to perfectly match any interior design theme. Muted satin finishes assist in hiding fingerprints on your metal stair railing.

Brass Stair Railing

Made from copper and zinc, brass stair railings are another option available in a range of colors. Color options range from yellow or golden to red or brown shades, depending how the metal is created. For many years, brass has been used on some of the nicest buildings around Scottsdale, AZ. This is because not only is it a timeless metal, it offers unique elegance and a classic look. However, a brass stair railing will require some maintenance care to ensure it does not tarnish and continues to look brilliant. It also offers a natural anti-microbial property.

Copper Stair Railing

Cooper stair railings offer a warm and rich appearance which are often used for bringing the interior of a home to life. Although, they can be used outdoors as well. When choosing copper, the overall cost will be more, but many business and home owners enjoy the look of copper stair railings, which start with a reddish or golden-brown hue. However, due to exposure to the environment over time, copper naturally develops a green patina that acts as a layer of protection against corrosion. Like with a brass stair railing, copper also provides anti-microbial properties to assist in health.

Wrought Iron Stair Railing

Wrought Iron is a metal that many have preferred using for centuries, including home owners, craftsmen, builders, and commercial property owners. Wrought iron stair railings provide a wonderful finish while providing the ability to incorporate rather intricate designs for a custom appearance. Wrought iron is a very strong and durable metal, meaning it will provide the supported needed and last a long time. Usually a wrought iron railing has a black finish, but they can have other finishes to match your needs, including shimmery silver or golden hues. If you prefer you can go with a minimal and clean design, or a more complex custom scroll work to make your new wrought iron stair railing your very own one of a kind masterpiece. Although wrought iron can be installed indoors or outdoors, keep in mind that iron can easily rust from weather conditions and require more care than other metals.

Staircase Railing Installation in the Phoenix Valley

If you have a residential or commercial property that needs a stair railing Victor Metal Works can help!  We will discuss the style, metal, and look you want for your property. We pride ourselves on being able to capture the specific style that is traditional, modern, eclectic, or any other inspiration you might have.  For more information about getting a new staircase installed call 480-584-6220.

Schedule a Consultation Today!

VMW is Arizona’s leading manufacturer of custom wrought iron stair railings and fences for projects in Scottsdale, Paradise Valley and the Greater Phoenix area. Call 480-584-6220 to get your project started today!

Written by webtechs

2022 Costs To Install Front Entry Door With Two Sidelights

Cost To Install Front Entry Door With Two Sidelights

ARIZONA’S LEADING DESIGNER OF CUSTOM FABRICATED WROUGHT IRON & STEEL PRODUCTS

Cost To Install Front Entry Door With Two Sidelights

The average cost of a front entry door with two sidelights installation is $1,640. Front entry door with two sidelights installation costs ranged from $500 to $2,780 in the US for 2022.

Entry Doors

Exterior door types will be hardier than interior types and will have a higher installation cost. Steel type doors are the most affordable option, and there is a wide range of options for each type of material. Though style and application play a considerable role, the material type is one of the largest factors impacting cost.

Entry Door W/ Sidelights Costs According to HomeAdvisor:

On average, front entry door installation with two sidelights costs about $6,500, with most homeowners spending between $2000 and $20,000. Adding sidelights can sometimes double or triple the price of installation. This data is based on real project costs as reported by HomeAdvisormembers.

Entry Door W/ Sidelights Costs According to Remodleingexpense:

On average installing entry doors with sidelights costs about $1,113, with most homeowners spending between $850 to $1,375 according to RemodelingExpense.

Entry Door W/ Sidelights Costs According to Homewyse:

On average entry doors with sidelights cost around $2,298 to install with most homeowners spending between $1,815 to $2,780 according to Homewyse.

Front Entry Door Installation Quotes In Phoenix

Are you thinking about installing a front entry door with two side lights in Phoenix, Arizona? Victory Metal Works offers professional and affordable front entry doors with sidelights and double entry doors with sidelights in many areas of the Phoenix, Arizona area. Give us a call today to discuss your front entry door 480-584-6220.

Call 480-584-6220 or Contact Us

Schedule a Consultation Today!

VMW is Arizona’s leading manufacturer of custom wrought iron stair railings and fences for projects in Scottsdale, Paradise Valley and the Greater Phoenix area. Call 480-584-6220 to get your project started today!

Written by webtechs

Costs to Install Front Door with Sidelights 2022

Cost to Install Front Door with Sidelights

ARIZONA’S LEADING DESIGNER OF CUSTOM FABRICATED WROUGHT IRON & STEEL PRODUCTS

Cost to Install Front Door with Sidelights

On average, the cost to install a front door with sidelights is about $2,280 with costs ranging from $1,802 to $2,759 in the US for 2022, according to HomeWyse.

This front door installation cost estimate includes:

  • The cost of material, equipment, and transportation
  • The cost of preparing the site for front door with sidelights installation
  • The cost of labor, setup time, and any hourly charges

This front door installation cost estimate does not include:

  • The cost to remove or relocate framing, HVAC, plumbing, or electrical systems if needed
  • The cost of testing for hazardous materials if needed
  • The cost of having a general contractor supervise the project
  • The cost of tax on supplies and materials
  • Inspection or permit fees required for your project

Entry Door with Sidelights Prices According to Home Advisor

It costs an additional $500 to $2,500 to install sidelights next to a front door according to HomeAdvisor. Learn more about of cost of different types of entry doors with sidelights:

  • Steel front door with sidelights cost: $700 to $3,700
  • Fiberglass front door with sidelights cost: $700 to $5,000
  • Wood front door with sidelights cost: $1,500 to $5,000

Learn more about the cost to install an entry door with sidelights.

What Are Front Doors with Sidelights?

Sidelights are small matching windows installed next to your entry door and run from the bottom to the top of the frame.

Cost to Install Front Door On YouTube

Front Door w/ Sidelights Quotes In Phoenix, Arizona

Are you thinking about installing a front door with sidelights in Phoenix, Arizona? Victory Metal Works offers professional and affordable front doors with sidelights and double front doors with sidelights in many areas of the Phoenix, Arizona area. Give us a call today to discuss your front entry door 480-584-6220.

Schedule a Consultation Today!

VMW is Arizona’s leading manufacturer of custom wrought iron stair railings and fences for projects in Scottsdale, Paradise Valley and the Greater Phoenix area. Call 480-584-6220 to get your project started today!

Written by webtechs

Costs to Install Front Door with Sidelights 2021

Cost to Install Front Door with Sidelights

ARIZONA’S LEADING DESIGNER OF CUSTOM FABRICATED WROUGHT IRON & STEEL PRODUCTS

Cost to Install Front Door with Sidelights

On average, the cost to install a front door with sidelights is about $2,280 with costs ranging from $1,802 to $2,759 in the US for 2021, according to HomeWyse.

This front door installation cost estimate includes:

  • The cost of material, equipment, and transportation
  • The cost of preparing the site for front door with sidelights installation
  • The cost of labor, setup time, and any hourly charges

This front door installation cost estimate does not include:

  • The cost to remove or relocate framing, HVAC, plumbing, or electrical systems if needed
  • The cost of testing for hazardous materials if needed
  • The cost of having a general contractor supervise the project
  • The cost of tax on supplies and materials
  • Inspection or permit fees required for your project

Entry Door with Sidelights Prices According to Home Advisor

It costs an additional $500 to $2,500 to install sidelights next to a front door according to HomeAdvisor. Learn more about of cost of different types of entry doors with sidelights:

  • Steel front door with sidelights cost: $700 to $3,700
  • Fiberglass front door with sidelights cost: $700 to $5,000
  • Wood front door with sidelights cost: $1,500 to $5,000

Learn more about the cost to install an entry door with sidelights.

What Are Front Doors with Sidelights?

Sidelights are small matching windows installed next to your entry door and run from the bottom to the top of the frame.

Cost to Install Front Door On YouTube

Front Door w/ Sidelights Quotes In Phoenix, Arizona

Are you thinking about installing a front door with sidelights in Phoenix, Arizona? Victory Metal Works offers professional and affordable front doors with sidelights and double front doors with sidelights in many areas of the Phoenix, Arizona area. Give us a call today to discuss your front entry door 480-584-6220.

Schedule a Consultation Today!

VMW is Arizona’s leading manufacturer of custom wrought iron stair railings and fences for projects in Scottsdale, Paradise Valley and the Greater Phoenix area. Call 480-584-6220 to get your project started today!

Written by Grant G

Choosing a Driveway Entry Gate

Choosing a Driveway Entry Gate

ARIZONA’S LEADING DESIGNER OF CUSTOM FABRICATED WROUGHT IRON & STEEL PRODUCTS

Choosing a Driveway Entry Gate

If you’re looking to get an automatic driveway entry gate installed, and it’s your first time doing so, you may find yourself confounded by the cryptic and complicated terminologies that would fly way above the head of a person having no prior experience.And if all that doesn’t leave you confused, then chances are that the many options you can go for and the extensive considerations involved in the selection and installation process surely will.

In this article, we have made an effort to break down and simplify the many terminologies that you will encounter, the different types of gates, and the considerations you need to keep in mind in search of the perfect driveway gate for you.

Diving right into it, let’s first get acquainted with the basic categories of driveway gates that can be installed. Each of the five categories below, then offer varying options for the types of driveway gates that you can get, which we will outline in a bit.

  • Swing Gates
  • Slide Gates
  • Barrier Gates
  • Vertical Lift Gates
  • Vertical Pivot Gates

As mentioned above, these five gateway categories encase a number of different kinds of driveway gates. There are, for instance, more than a few types of slide gates that you can consider.

But don’t let all this scare you off, because it really isn’t as complicated as it sounds, and once we’re done explaining each of these gate types and where they go best, you’ll have a better understanding of the applications and considerations involved, and will be able to communicate your requirements to your gate installer without a hitch.

Automatic Slide Gates

Just as the name suggests, a slide door slides from right to left or left to right on wheels, or in both directions in the case of two sliding panels making up the gate. Most supermarkets and stores use slide gates at the entrance.

The biggest consideration when opting for a slide gate is the space you’ve got available, as these would require quite a lot. In order for the slide gate to be a practical option, you need free space that is equal to your driveway’s width and a few feet extra, on either the left or the right side of the gate. For instance, if your driveway is 16 feet wide, a 16 feet slide gate will need sufficient room at either side to fit its 16-feet heft, as well as a few feet in addition, so you will be looking at 19 feet of available space to be able to install a slide gate.

If this isn’t possible and your driveway doesn’t allow sufficient room on either side of the gate, then a slide gate is likely not an option for you.

Now that you have an understanding of what slide gates are and the most important consideration, lets have a look at the kinds of slide gates available for installation.

V-track Gates

These are the most widely used slide gates, chosen for their reliability. Since the wheels move on a wedged V track at the bottom, this V track needs to be kept clear of hindrances and debris, making the gates unsuitable if your area gets lots of snow during the winters.

A V track gate will normally have to be 3 feet wider than the opening for the gate, so that an automated gate opener can be installed.

Rear Pipe Track Gates

Similar to the V track gates, rear pipe track gates also need to be 3 feet wider than the gate opening, and are mostly used on chain link gates.

But the way they need to be installed leads to an important consideration which your gate installer should already know of, but it doesn’t hurt if you do too. The back end of the gate holds two wheels mounted on pipes, that are in turn mounted to the panels on the fence. The front end normally constitutes a wheel carriage formation, with a single rubber wheel and a V track wheel.

Now, the consideration is that if you’ve got a slide gate with a rear pipe track installed already, and the front has two rubber wheels, you should replace one wheel with a V track wheel and track, before installing the automated mechanism for it to work.

Cantilever Gates

If your area gets a lot of snow during winters, a cantilever slide gate is what you should be considering. These gates do not have wheels at the bottom that touch the ground, instead slide between wheels mounted on a vertical carriage on the side of the gate. They are, therefore,not affected by accumulated debris on the ground.Depending on how they are installed, and the placement of the roller carriages, you can either get ‘full cantilever gates’, ‘bottom track cantilever gates’, or ‘top hang cantilever gates’. Your gate installer can discuss this with you and help you pick the right one.

The most important consideration for cantilever gates is space, which they require a lot of; this becoming their biggest drawback. The gate has to be 50% longer than the opening of the driveway, which means that you will need a gate measuring 30 feet for a 20 feet driveway opening.

Swing Gates

These gates work similar to regular doors inside houses, swinging open outward or inward. An important consideration when installing swinging doors that open outward is to ensure there is enough space in front of the house and that they don’t take up the sidewalk or the street, otherwise they may hit a vehicle or a passerby.

When in the market, you’ll find that you can get either single swing, or double swing gates. Single swing gates open up like a bedroom door, while double swing gates work similar to garden and patio doors, with two swinging panes next to each other.

Since these doors swing open, it is important that your driveway is level, and not rising up in places otherwise that will act as an obstruction for the gates. It is also preferable to install gates that are no more than 16 feet wide, although some gate installers specialize in gates up to 20 feet in width.

Often seen installed in front of mansions and compounds, double swing gateslook more appealing to the eye than single swing gates, as well as being easier to operate than their counterpart.

If your driveway is on a slope, more likely to happen if you live on a hill,‘uphill swing gates’ may be better suited for installation. You should keep in mind, however, that they are a lot more complicated to install than regular swing gates, and their installation should only be contracted to installers with experience of doing so.Other factors like the size, weight, and type of gate also need to be considered as these will determine the maximum slope the gate can be installed on.

If you are in an area that gets a lot of snow, or have an uneven driveway, you can also consider ‘lift and swing gates’. These make use of a hydraulic lift that lifts the gate before it swings open, which then continues to raise as it is swung open. These are ideal if you don’t have enough space for a cantilever slide gate, but will cost you a lot more than regular slide and swing gates as well.

Barrier Gates

You must have seen these at parking lots, toll booths, and other controlled areas. Barrier gates work as simple levers, pivoted at one end, where the other end lifts up vertically to let people and vehicles through.

As it’s just a metal rod going across the driveway, a barrier gate is not very costly to purchase and install, but wouldn’t offer much in terms of privacy and security, and is not very appealing to look at either. Because of this, these gates are only suitable for controlling vehicular and human traffic.

Vertical Pivot Gates

If you don’t know what they are, you may think them similar to barrier gates, which they are to a certain extent. But where the one above is merely a barrier in the middle of a driveway, these are actual gates,rising up to a height of 8 feet, or even more. When it’s closed, it’s like any other entrance gate, but rather than swinging or sliding open, it lifts vertically up on a pivot to let vehicles through.

The majesty of a vertical pivot gate when it opens up is a sight to behold, and it also offers more security than a barrier gate ever could. It is a good option to consider if your driveway does not have enough space, or doesn’t meet other requirements for a slide or swing gate.

Vertical Lift Gates

These can normally be found at industrial complexes or at entrances to warehouse compounds. This is partly because of the costs incurred in their purchase and installation.

These gates are huge, rise up to great heights to allow freight trolleys in, and work on a pulley mechanism, with both ends pivoted to a post on either end. When a vehicle needs to pass through, the pulley mechanism in the posts lifts the gate up from both ends to whatever height is needed, underneath which the vehicles can pass through.

Vertical lift gates provide heightened security and can be installed with virtually any kind of gate panel so they can be incredibly to look at.

Phoenix Driveway Gate Installation

You may have begun reading this article thinking what a complicated task installing a driveway gate was going to be, but we hope reading it has equipped you with a better understanding of the different options available to you, the factors to keep in consideration, and which type of driveway gates will suite your needs best. To get new driveway gates at your Phoenix home contact the experts in metal at Victory Metal Works. Give us a call at 480-584-6220 or use our contact form.

Schedule a Consultation Today!

VMW is Arizona’s leading manufacturer of custom wrought iron stair railings and fences for projects in Scottsdale, Paradise Valley and the Greater Phoenix area. Call 480-584-6220 to get your project started today!

Written by Grant G

Wrought Iron vs. Steel Gates: Which Is Best?

Wrought Iron vs. Steel Gates: Which Is Best?

ARIZONA’S LEADING DESIGNER OF CUSTOM FABRICATED WROUGHT IRON & STEEL PRODUCTS

Wrought Iron vs. Steel Gates: Which Is Best?

If you’re searching for “wrought iron vs. steel gates” you’re probably trying to decide which you want for your home or business.  Both have pros and cons, but which is best?  Read on to find out which will work best for your commercial or residential property.  In the event you are like most people, not a full-fledged gate aficionado and searching for new metal gates you may be confused when encountering terms such as steel gates and wrought iron gates. It is common to wonder the difference, because they are both metal. Although both are metal, they do have differences, let’s take a look.

WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCES BETWEEN STEEL GATES AND WROUGHT IRON GATES?

Because metal gates are generally advertised as the same thing, being metal, the differences are not clearly obvious with modern manufacturing processes. However, from a scientific perspective, there are some differences that will assist you in determining the proper type of gate for your situation. For starters, steel is an alloy while iron is an element found on the Periodic Table. Basically, steel is a man-made metal combining carbon and iron, while iron is a raw material that is extracted from the ground.

Of course, if you are not big on Chemistry, you could be questioning why knowing the science behind the two metals help determine which gate to choose. Below is an outline of characteristics between each type to highlight the differences. This enables you to ask the proper questions when shopping for your metal gate.

WROUGHT IRON GATES

Iron gates are created from the raw element (iron) after being excavated from the earth. Iron has been used for centuries all around the world. Although, traditional wrought iron forged by civilizations using a hammer and an anvil do not exist in a modern commercial sense. However, the work is still done by a few establishments, which often charge premium prices. But, for the past century steel has been the preferred metal due to being rust-proof, stronger and simply being superior.

Although, the major change from iron to steel is not to suggest manufacturing no longer uses iron. This is particularly true with manufacturing of metal gates, where steel may be used for the railings, posts, pickets and frames, the manufacturer may prefer to use sand-casted iron for the gate frame caps and posts, panel brackets, final tips, and various visual elements. Steel is no doubt more wear resistant and stronger, making it the ideal material for stamping, rolling and cutting. However, sand-cast iron provides manufacturer’s the ability to create more visual details, providing an appealing gate, in combination with a strong frame.

STEEL GATES

Steel gates are the most common type of metal gates manufactured today, followed by aluminum. As previously mentioned, the reason being steel provides a rust-proof and stronger frame. Although, material quality used depends on the manufacturer. You should question the dealer about what type of metal the gate is fabricated with. Many gate fabricators create gates from a thinner type of stamped steel with picket tops pressed into flat pointed shapes, which have no iron elements. This process is cheaper to manufacture, making it a preferred option on a small budget. However, it does not have the high-quality appearance that iron tip gates provide. Generally, for an additional charge a manufacturer will offer final tip upgrades, but many of these are fabricated from die-cast or plastic with each being applied by pressure. Therefore, to get the best appearance possible you would have to align each picket to be straight and even. When dealing with several feet of fencing, this can be challenging.

Although, this is not suggesting these type of steel gates is poor quality, necessarily. Because they are mostly fabricated from steel, they provide strength while being economical. They just do not have the stunning appearance achieved with iron finishing’s on a steel frame.

Because of this, reading the fine print becomes an important step, along with asking questions when shopping for a metal gate. We hope our explanation has helped to provide a clear understanding between the differences between iron and steel gates. As a metal gate is not a cheap investment, you should be well informed for making your decision.

CUSTOMIZED METAL GATE FABRICATIONS

Are you searching for a custom fabricated wrought iron or steel gate in the Scottsdale, Arizona area? Victory Metal Works is an experienced fabricator and offers custom wrought iron gate fabrication. We will help you develop a custom design for your metal gates, fabricated it with the highest quality metal and fabrication techniques, and then professionally install it at your home, office, or any property you wish.  We design, fabricate, and install both custom single gates and custom double gates.

Start your order by giving us a call at 480-584-6220

Schedule a Consultation Today!

VMW is Arizona’s leading manufacturer of custom wrought iron stair railings and fences for projects in Scottsdale, Paradise Valley and the Greater Phoenix area. Call 480-584-6220 to get your project started today!

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