Are Custom Gates Worth the Investment?
Safeguarding your property is no easy feat, and you’ll find plenty of pre-fab gates that promise to secure your home and protect your family. Unfortunately, the cheapest alternatives may leave you with serious regrets. Join us as we uncover the truth about custom gates vs off-the-shelf models to help you determine which one is really worth the investment.
Benefits of custom gates vs pre-fabricated gates
Take a look at just some of the advantages of custom gates that you won’t find with pre-fab alternatives:
Boosts curb appeal
A chain-link fence might keep the neighbor’s dog out of your yard, but it won’t improve your property’s aesthetics. On the other hand, custom gates are designed to complement your landscaping and the architectural features of your home or business, creating a signature entrance.
Adds to the property value
If you decide to sell your home, a thoughtfully crafted custom gate can signal the level of care and attention to detail you’ve invested in it.
For potential home buyers, these types of high-quality home improvements often set your property apart from the competition and boost your overall resale value.
Enhances security
Unlike pre-fabricated systems, custom gates are made for the precise dimensions of your yard and driveway, avoiding gaps or forced fits that could grant trespassers access to your estate. You can choose from a range of robust materials and advanced features that further enhance security.
Related: Enhance Your Home Security With Gate Installation Upgrades
What to consider when looking for custom gates
The design process is where the fun really begins. Here are a few considerations to keep in mind as you prepare to install your custom gate.
Materials
Some of the most common materials for custom gates include:
Aluminum: Lightweight, rust-resistant, and ideal for coastal climates.
Steel: Exceptionally strong and versatile. Often used in modern and industrial styles.
Wrought Iron: Classic, elegant, and robust. May include decorative scrollwork and other design elements.
Wood: Typically supported with a metal frame, wood offers a warm, natural appeal. May require more maintenance than other materials.
Composite materials: Similar to wood, but require less maintenance.
Design customization
A great gate installation company will work with you to find the perfect design elements to complement your home’s exterior. From classic to contemporary and artsy to refined, there are endless stylistic possibilities to choose from.
Want to show off your thriving garden or create a hidden oasis away from prying eyes? Whatever your goals, an experienced installer can offer ideas to make your dream a reality.
Security features
Of course, the best custom gates strike a balance between form and function, offering essential security features alongside aesthetic appeal. Heavy-duty hardware, strategically placed lighting, and anti-climb designs help ensure that no one gains entry to your property without an invitation.
Gate automation
An automatic gate opener takes custom gates to the next level. These electric systems don’t just keep the wrong people out. They also make access easier for the folks who live there.
Available for swing gates, sliding gates, and beyond, you can outfit your operation with keypads, radio transmitters, motion sensors, and Bluetooth. You could even install biometric systems that use facial recognition or fingerprints for optimal safety and security.
Related: Gate Automation Options for Easier Access
Comparing the costs of custom gates vs pre-fabricated options
Still on the fence about investing in custom gates for your property? Let’s discuss a few factors that might offer a bit of clarity.
Understanding the true cost of pre-fab options
It’s true that pre-fabricated gates are less expensive, but it’s important to consider what you’ll sacrifice when you choose this option. Mass-produced gates are designed for the average property, so they don’t generally account for the actual dimensions or grade of your outdoor space. If your driveway is wider or narrower than the norm, you may encounter issues.
Some off-the-shelf gates may be made from substandard materials, limiting your upgrade options. Adding automation kits and additional privacy and security features will cost you. And if the gate doesn’t meet your needs, returns can be complicated, expensive, or even impossible.
How custom gates provide better ROI
When it comes to your return on investment, higher property values are just the beginning. Custom gates feature quality materials designed to perform better in Florida’s climate, lowering potential long-term repair and replacement costs.
And since the right installation company will ensure your custom gate works perfectly and meets all your specifications, you won’t risk paying for a setup that doesn’t meet your expectations.
Avoiding hidden costs
Pre-fab gates may have a lower sticker price, but you’ll have to do a lot of research and math to calculate your true cost. Expenses for site preparation, reinforcements, weatherproofing, permits, and electrical work add up quickly.
When you partner with a company like Florida Gate Masters, you’ll work one-on-one with our trusted installation experts who can help you understand the overall costs before breaking ground.
Related: Tips for Purchasing Custom Gates
Ready to elevate your property? Florida Gate Masters is here to help!
The team at Florida Gate Masters is committed to the safety and security of your property. Before you purchase a pre-fab gate from a big box store, let us show you what you can really get for the money. Reach out today to learn more about our custom gate design!
