Framed Solid Flat Top Driveway Gate

Greeted by a sturdy, stylish entrance, a framed solid flat top driveway gate is more than a boundary—it’s a statement. These beautiful, solid timber gates are crafted with a 70mm thick frame and inlaid boards, delivering both privacy and curb appeal. At Empress Fencing, every gate is individually made to suit your exact requirements, ensuring a perfect fit for your property and lifestyle. In this article, we explore why framed solid flat top driveway gates are a smart choice, the timber options available, customisation possibilities, and practical care tips to keep your gate looking pristine for years to come.

Why choose a framed solid flat top driveway gate?

• Complete privacy: The design relies on inlaid boards within a solid frame, creating a barrier that blocks view from the outside while still allowing for airflow and light where appropriate.
• Robust construction: A 70mm thick frame provides strength and longevity, making these gates suitable for frequent use and varying weather conditions.
• Customisation: Every gate is made to order, so you can tailor dimensions, top shape, and end profiles to match your property’s architecture and your personal taste.
• Timber warmth and aesthetics: Solid timber gates bring a natural beauty that complements both modern and traditional settings, enhancing kerb appeal and potential home value.

Timber options – softwood, redwood, hardwood, and more

Empress Fencing offers a range of timber choices to suit budget, performance, and style preferences:

• Softwood: An economical option with a classic timber look. Softwood gates can be finished with stain or paint to protect against the elements.
• Redwood: Known for its natural resistance to decay and a warm, rich colour that deepens with age. Redwood gates provide a timeless appearance and sturdy performance.
• Hardwood (Sapele or Iroko): Hardwood is prized for durability and stability. Gates made in hardwood are often recommended for withstanding heavy use and varying climate conditions. When opting for hardwood, a solid bottom bar is recommended to enhance rigidity and reduce sagging.

Tip: For hardwood gates in this style, a solid bottom bar is strongly recommended to maintain alignment and structural integrity over time.

Customisation options – shapes, rails, and configurations

These framed solid flat top gates can be tailored to meet your exact requirements:

• Solid bottom bar: Adds structural support and helps keep the boards straight under load.
• Solid middle rails: Provide additional strength across the gate’s width, reducing movement and warping.
• Rebated frame: A rebate can improve weather protection and offer a neater, more secure fit against the post.
• Top shapes: Choose a swept or arched top for a softer silhouette or a bold flat top for a contemporary look.
• End shapes: Shaped ends can soften lines or echo architectural details found elsewhere on your property.

Important note: Timber is a living product. Movement in the boards and frame over time is natural and expected. Regular seasonal changes may cause slight shifts, but with quality construction and proper maintenance, these gates will continue to perform and look great.

Sizing and installation considerations

• Size: Available in any width starting from 2 feet upwards, with dimensions made to order. This ensures a precise fit between existing posts or to a custom opening.
• Layout: Consider how the gate will operate in relation to drive width, vehicle clearance, and pedestrian access. Empress Fencing can help you design a gate that works harmoniously with your driveway.
• Postwork and hardware: For optimal durability, pairing with robust posts, hinges, and latches is essential. Discuss stainless steel or weather-treated iron hardware options to resist corrosion.

Price guide and value

• Example: Redwood, 4’ wide x 4’ high gate priced at £185 + VAT (guide price). Keep in mind this estimate may vary based on timber choice, size, and optional extras.
• Optional extras: Solid bottom and middle rails, rebated frame, and other refinements can influence pricing. Your Empress Fencing consultant can provide a detailed, itemised quote based on your exact specifications.

Maintenance and care tips

• Finish and protection: Apply a suitable exterior finish tailored to your timber choice (stain, sealant, or paint). Refinish every few years, depending on exposure and climate.
• Movement and inspection: Inspect hinges, posts, and rails periodically. Tighten hardware as needed and check for any signs of loosening or warping.
• Cleaning: Remove dirt and debris with a soft brush and mild soap solution. Rinse with clean water and allow to dry thoroughly before applying any finish.
• Seasonal considerations: In damp or coastal environments, more frequent checks for timber movement and moisture management may be warranted.

Why Empress Fencing stands out

• Custom-made to order: Each gate is crafted to your exact measurements and design preferences, ensuring a perfect fit and a cohesive look with your property.
• Quality materials: From softwood to redwood and hardwood options like Sapele or Iroko, you can select the timber that best matches your budget and performance needs.
• Practical beauty: These gates balance privacy, security, and aesthetic appeal, enhancing the entrance to your home while offering years of reliable service.

A framed, solid, flat-top driveway gate is more than a functional barrier; it is a durable, elegant feature that elevates your property’s entrance. With Empress Fencing, you can choose from a range of timber options and customisation features to create a gate that precisely fits your driveway and style. Remember that timber is a living material, and some movement is natural, but with a solid 70mm frame, inlaid boards, and options such as a solid bottom bar, swept or arched tops, and shaped ends, your gate will remain a landmark of quality and privacy for years to come. If you’re considering an investment in a solid timber gate, reach out to Empress Fencing to discuss your exact requirements, receive a tailored quote, and begin the journey toward a stunning, low-maintenance entrance to your home.

If you’re considering enhancing your garden or property with sturdy and elegant 6ft fence panels or decorative fence panels, look no further than Empress Fencing, your local one-stop shop for fence posts, decking, timber, fence panels and fencing fixings. Experience the impact they can have on your outdoor space today!