Top 5 Questions to Ask Before Buying a Wooden Gate — Answered

Grogan Timber Products
4 days ago
3 min read

vertical entrance slatted timber driveway gate

Whether you're upgrading your entrance, fencing a farm, or adding privacy to a garden, wooden gates are one of the most popular and versatile choices for Irish properties. But before you place an order, it's important to ask the right questions to make sure your gate is the right fit — in both style and function.

At Grogan Timber Products, we build custom timber gates every day, and here are the 5 questions we always recommend customers consider before buying.

1. What Is the Primary Purpose of the Gate?

Is your gate for privacy, security, access control, or livestock management?

Your gate’s purpose helps determine the right:

Gate type (e.g. timber driveway gate, timber side gate, timber farm gate)
Style (slatted, solid panel, traditional, contemporary)
Durability and height based on location and usage

Knowing your objective ensures we can create a gate that performs exactly how you need it to.

2. What Timber and Finish Do You Want?

Grogan Timber uses only pressure-treated, kiln-dried Scandinavian timber, carefully selected for Irish conditions. But your preferred look and maintenance level still matter.

Consider:

A natural timber finish or a paintable surface
Exposure to rain, sea air, or direct sunlight
Whether you want a slatted design or full privacy panel

We can guide you through choosing the best timber gate style for your environment.

3. What Are the Exact Measurements?

Proper measuring is crucial before ordering any custom-made gate. Whether it’s a timber driveway gate or side gate, here’s what to measure:

Width of your entrance (between posts or pillars)
Height for privacy, access, or visual impact
Space for swing clearance or slope
Whether you’re planning to install manually or with automation in future

We build every gate to fit your unique layout—and can offer advice on accurate measurement.

4. Do I Need a Single or Double Gate?

Depending on your entrance size and intended use, we can provide:

A single gate — often used for side entrances or narrow walkways
A pair of gates — typically used for wider driveways or yard access

Let us know your preferred layout, and we’ll help design accordingly.

5. Will the Gate Be Manual or Automated?

Not all timber gates are suitable for automation — so plan ahead. Many of our gates are suitable for automation when properly prepared.

If automation is part of your long-term plan:

Let us know during ordering
We’ll reinforce the gate as needed and advise on post spacing
You’ll be ready for a smooth automation install later on

Bonus Tip: Ask About Hardware

Don’t forget about hinges, latches, posts, and fittings. We supply everything you need, matched to your gate size and style — including treated timber posts and galvanised hinges for Irish weather conditions.

Final Thoughts

Your gate is an investment — in security, privacy, and visual appeal. At Grogan Timber Products, we make the process easy with expert guidance, custom craftsmanship, and reliable nationwide service.

Whether you need a timber farm gate, side gate, or a custom driveway entrance, we’re here to help from design to delivery.

Ready to get started?