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How to add gates into your fence design. Pro-Tips from our Fencing Planning Experts. 

Are you creating your dream property and working on a fence plan? We believe designing is one of the most exciting parts of the whole fencing journey, but it’s also the part that needs careful thought.  

 

At this stage, some pro-tips might prove handy to achieve beautiful results and avoid common mistakes especially when it comes to planning the placement and functionality of gates. Gates are more than just entry points; they are key to the looks, safety, accessibility, and usability of your property. The smallest details can have a big impact on the final aesthetics and management. 

 

If you are a first-time property owner, the placement and design of gates might seem like minor concerns, but if you already own one, you might be aware that poor planning in this area can lead to significant problems. Perhaps you’ve experienced the frustration of muddy, inaccessible gates or the anxiety of horses crowding and risking injury near poorly placed entrances. 

 

We understand your concerns because we specialise in providing the finest fencing solutions to high-end property owners across Australia and New Zealand. With years of experience helping equine and lifestyle property owners create signature properties, we know the ins and outs of what makes a great property and how critical gate placement can be. Our expertise ensures that you won’t have to deal with the hassle and potential dangers of improperly installed gates. 

 

In this article, you will learn the best practices for adding gates to your fence design. We’ll guide you through strategic placement, choosing the right gate sizes, and ensuring your property looks gorgeous and is safe and accessible for both you and your horses. By the end of this blog, you’ll have a clear plan to enhance the beauty, usability and safety of your property, making your daily routines smoother and giving you peace of mind. 

 

1. Strategic Gate Placement

Before installing your fencing, think about where you need gates and how they will be used. If you are creating an equine property in paddocks with multiple horses, gates can become crowding points, which can lead to potential injury. To avoid this, place gates along open fencing lines rather than in the corners of paddocks. This placement helps manage the movement of horses and reduces the risk of crowding and injury. 

You can learn more about how to choose the best horse gate and access a checklist made by our pros for horse owners.  

 

Pro Tips: 

  • Check the terrain of your property as well: Gates will experience heavy traffic and can quickly become muddy or rutted if placed in low-lying areas. Position gates in areas with higher elevation relative to the rest of the field to ensure they remain accessible and functional in all weather conditions. 
  • Angle Your Fence Line for Better Aesthetic: Consider angling the fence line into the front gates of your property. This breaks the straight line of fencing and creates a more aesthetically pleasing look. 

 

2. Enclosing Your Property

Decide whether you want your entire property fenced in. An enclosed property adds a significant safety layer, particularly if you have horses that might escape. For perimeter fences, think about where the gate along your driveway should be. An automatic gate could be a wise investment, allowing vehicle access while keeping your horses securely contained. 

Here are some tips on successful gate automation at rural properties. 

 

3. Gate Functionality

When designing your gates, consider how you will use them.  

Do you need gates that swing both ways? Gates that can be opened while on horseback? These features can make moving around your property much easier. Plan for gates that accommodate your daily routines and any specific needs you might have. 

Premium Steel Fencing Gates from Stock & Noble have both these features and are convenient for riders and safe for horses. It’ll be worth digging deeper into all the details about premium steel gates. 

Another functionality to consider is whether you need single or double gates. If you have thought about this already, great. If not, then do look at the comparison between single and double steel fencing gates. It’ll help you make the right decision based on your needs and preferences. 

 

4. Inner Paddocks and Yards Layout

For the inner paddocks and yards, accessibility is key. Ensure all areas of your property are accessible by road and safe to navigate in various weather conditions.  

 

Pro-tips  

  • Ensure Safe Spacing: Maintain at least 2.4 meters of space between the fence lines of adjoining pastures to keep handlers and horses safe. This space allows for easy passage and reduces the risk of accidents 
  • Optimal Gate Placement: Placing gates at the steel corner assemblies in horserail paddocks is the most cost-effective option. This placement also provides more room around the entry to the paddocks, making it easier for movement and access. 

 

5. Choosing the Right Gate Sizes

Selecting the appropriate gate size for different areas of your property is essential for functionality. Our fencing gates, for example, come in 1.2 meters, 2.4 meters, and 3.6 meters lengths. Choose a size that fits the specific use of each gate. For instance, larger gates might be necessary for areas where vehicles need access, while smaller gates work well for pedestrian or horseback entry. 

 

6. Avoiding Crowding in Pastures

The location of gates within pastures is critical. Avoid placing pasture gates in corners, as this can encourage horses to crowd these areas, leading to potential injury. Instead, position gates where there’s ample space for horses and vehicles to pass through safely. 

 

7. Planning Ahead

Finally, plan to ensure your fencing installation meets all your needs. Think about future growth and changes to your property. Planning now can save you time and money in the long run, ensuring your fence and gates are effective and efficient for years to come.  

We understand budget is also an important part of your overall fence planning. If you are looking for a long-term investment, find out the reasons why our premium steel gates are one of the most expensive fencing gates in Australia. 

 

Ready to Add Gates to Your Fencing Design? 

Designing a fence with well-placed gates is essential for the safety, accessibility, and functionality of your property.  

 

Now you know the factors to consider, guidelines to follow and some pro-tips to help you along the way as you plan the gates around your fence line. From strategic placement to choosing the right sizes and ensuring functionality, each decision has its role in creating a safe and accessible environment for your horses and property. 

 

In summary, thoughtful planning can help you avoid common issues and create an easy-to-manage and beautiful space.  

 

If you’re looking for some design inspiration, we have curated visuals of some stunning horse properties featuring our Premium Steel fencing gates. As you look at the pictures, you’ll gain insights into how to include steel gates in the fencing plan of your forever property.  

 

For further information and guidance about the cost, installation or availability of fencing gates, feel free to reach out to our experts. They will help you every step of the way to create a safe and beautiful property, just the way you imagined. 

 

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