What Is the Difference Between Gate Size and Gate Opening Size?
If you’re shopping for gates, there’s a good chance at least one person has asked you whether you’re talking about gate size or gate opening size.
If you’re not in the fence business, this might seem like the same thing. However, it’s actually not! Let’s take a closer look at the difference between gate size and gate opening size.
Why Does This Matter?
Usually, if you have your gate, gate hardware, and posts on-site at the same time, it doesn’t really matter too much whether you’ve got a gate that’s measured by gate size or gate opening size.
However, sometimes you have to fit a gate into a specific area that only has so much space. Or you might need a gate with a certain amount of clearance to get vehicles, equipment, or something else through them.
If you need a gate that meets those dimensions, you will need to know whether you’re talking about gate size or gate opening size.
What Is Gate Size?
In the fence world, gate size means the size of the gate from the outside edge of one side of the gate frame to the outside edge of the other side of the gate frame.
If you are installing a double swing gate, that dimension would be doubled for each side of the gate.
When it comes to gate height, gate size is usually about 50mm or 2” shorter than the overall height you require to allow for ground clearance. This may vary, however, particularly if there is a slight slope and you’re trying to match fence height!
What Is Gate Opening Size?
In the fence world, gate opening size means the dimension from the inside edge of one gate post to the inside edge of the other.
It’s important to note that this does not always mean that you will have that size as free clearance. Some kinds of gate hardware, and the frame itself, might protrude into the opening, which would reduce that slightly. So if you need a specific free clearance when your gate is open, be sure to mention that to your fence or gate company!
Why Hinges and Latches Matter to Gate Size
When you’re ordering a gate from a manufacturer, particularly if you are having one made to your specifications, it's important to know what kind of hinges and latches you plan to use.
Different types of hinges have certain minimum and maximum allowances, which might alter the distance from the gate post or frame to the adjacent gate component.
Knowing which hardware you plan to use when you place your order will allow you to calculate the correct opening size and gate post spacing.
What About Sliding, Rolling and Cantilever Gates?
Sliding, rolling and cantilever gates are actually larger than the opening size they're designed for. How much larger depends on the type of gate.
Usually, cantilever gates are at least 1.5 times the width of the opening they're manufactured for, while sliding and rolling gates could be a foot or two wider at most.
However, sliding, rolling and cantilever gate opening sizes are measured the same way - from the inside face of one gate post to the inside face of the other.
When In Doubt, Ask the Pros!
As you can see, there are many things that go into deciding what size gate you need. If you’re not sure whether you should be working according to gate size or gate opening size and even more confused about how to calculate gate post spacing, it’s best to ask a fence professional.
Whether it’s a fence company that can measure your gate location and arrange the manufacturing or ordering and installation or talking directly to the gate manufacturer, they will be able to give you the correct information for your project.
The same basic rules apply to any type of gate and to man gates, pedestrian gates, garden gates, double swing gates, driveway gates, and any other kind of swing gate you can think of. So, no matter what kind of gate you're installing or having installed, be sure to measure twice and cut once!
