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Paled Field Gate: A Timeless Choice for Durable Field Access

When it comes to choosing a gate for protecting and shaping access to fields, paddocks, or traditional British landscapes, the Paled field gate stands out for its classic five-bar design, diamond bracing, and solid top bar. Made to order in a variety of timber options and widths, this gate combines sturdy construction with timeless aesthetics. In this guide, we’ll explore what makes the Paled field gate a dependable choice, the timber options available, sizing and pricing considerations, and important practical tips for installation and electrification. If you’re looking for a trusted supplier in the Clitheroe area, Empress Fencing Clitheroe offers Paled Field Gates crafted to satisfy both function and form.

What is a Paled Field Gate?

A Paled field gate is a traditional five-bar gate featuring distinctive diamond bracing and a solid top rail. The design is rooted in practical farming heritage, offering a strong barrier that remains easy to operate while allowing good airflow and visibility. The solid top bar and bracing contribute to rigidity and longevity, making it suitable for rural environments where gates must withstand wind, weather, and repeated use.

Key characteristics:

• Five-bar configuration with diamond bracing
• Solid top bar for enhanced strength
• Made to order to suit your opening width (2 feet upwards)
• Subtle, classic timber aesthetic that suits historic and farm settings

Timber Options: Softwood, Larch, Redwood, Hardwood

One of the strengths of the Paled Field Gate is its versatility in timber choices. Depending on budget, aesthetic preference, and required longevity, you can select from several timber options:

• Softwood options: Light, affordable, and easy to work with. Ideal for general garden and farm applications where rapid turnover or cost is a consideration.
• Larch: A durable softwood variant with better natural durability and resistance to the elements, often chosen for outdoor use where exposure is a concern.
• Redwood: Known for its natural beauty and balanced performance in outdoor conditions.
• Hardwood options: Sapele and Iroko offer enhanced durability, stability, and a more premium appearance. These timbers are excellent for longer-term installations where reduced maintenance is desirable.

Each timber choice brings its own aesthetic and performance profile. When selecting timber, consider factors such as long-term exposure, maintenance preferences, and whether the gate may be electrified, which can influence the choice of bottom support and fittings.

Sizes and Customization

The Paled Field Gate is made to order with a wide range of widths starting from 2 feet and up. This flexibility ensures a snug fit in many farmyard and field openings, whether your gate is for a small paddock or a larger field access point. Because the gate is crafted to order, it can be customized to:

• Match the exact opening width
• Align with the existing fencing style
• Include optional enhancements or structural adjustments

Size customization is particularly important for ensuring smooth operation and reliable security. If you’re considering electrification or other fittings, talk to your supplier about the best configuration for your specific opening.

Pricing and Optional Extras

Understanding the financial aspect helps with planning. A typical example is redwood timber with an 8-foot width, priced at £669.50 plus VAT. This provides a useful reference point for budgeting, though actual costs will vary depending on timber choice, width, and any additional features you select.

Optional extras to consider:

• Extra rails: Additional horizontal components can add strength and reduce warping, especially in exposed locations.
• Solid bottom bar: A solid bottom rail offers increased durability and can provide a robust anchor for electrification fittings.
• Solid middle rail: Adds extra rigidity and can improve the gate’s overall stability.

If you intend to electrify the gate, a solid bottom bar is advisable. It often serves as a mounting point for electrical fittings and helps distribute the load of the operator, reducing stress on the gate frame and hinges.

Installation Considerations

Proper installation is critical to the performance and longevity of any field gate. For a Paled Field Gate, consider the following:

• Gate posts: Use sturdy, properly set posts with appropriate concrete to anchor the gate securely against wind loads and usage.
• Hinge alignment: Ensure hinges are correctly spaced and aligned to prevent binding and to allow smooth operation.
• Clearance: Check the opening to ensure the gate can swing freely without rubbing on the ground or adjacent fencing.
• Electrification planning: If you plan to electrify the gate, ensure the solid bottom bar or other reinforcing components are compatible with the chosen operator model, and consult an electrician or a fencing professional for safe installation.

If you’re purchasing through Empress Fencing Clitheroe, they can guide you on the best setup for your site, including electrification considerations and any recommended extras tailored to your environment.

Maintenance and Longevity

Like all timber gates, maintenance influences how long a Paled Field Gate will serve well. Regular tasks include:

• Seasonal checks: Look for loose fixings, tighten screws, and inspect for any signs of wear to the diamond bracing and top rail.
• Surface protection: Apply appropriate timber treatment to protect against moisture, UV exposure, and pests.
• Cleaning: Remove dirt and debris that can trap moisture against the timber.

Choosing the right timber for your climate can reduce maintenance needs. Hardwood options, while more expensive upfront, often provide longer intervals between treatments due to their density and resistance to decay.

The Paled Field Gate is a versatile, durable choice for anyone seeking a traditional, high-quality field gate. With options across softwood, larch, redwood, and hardwood timbers like Sapele and Iroko, and the ability to tailor width and optional features, it remains a reliable solution for fields, paddocks, and rural properties. When ordering, keep in mind the recommended bottom bar if electrification is a possibility, and work with a trusted supplier to ensure proper installation and long-term performance.

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!