Custom Sliding Driveway Gates

What makes sliding gates worth considering

A sliding driveway gate can be a strong fit when the property has enough room beside the opening for the gate to travel. Instead of swinging into or away from the driveway, the gate moves laterally along the fence line, preserving the vehicle approach and avoiding a large swing arc.

The opening is only part of the measurement. A sliding gate typically needs additional overall length for overlap, support, guides, and travel. The side of the driveway where the gate stores must remain clear enough for the full gate and operator layout.

Pecos plans sliding gates around the frame, posts, rollers or track, guide system, grade, driveway surface, drainage, and operator location when the gate is automated. A clean installation begins with geometry before fabrication starts.

Planning the sliding gates project

The most important question is whether the property has enough clear side room. The gate needs a travel path longer than the driveway opening itself, and that path has to remain usable without hitting landscaping, walls, utilities, parking, grade changes, or other structures.

Track-based systems depend on the driveway surface and alignment. The track needs a clean, consistent path, and drainage or gravel movement should be considered so debris does not constantly interfere with travel. Guide rollers and posts keep the frame upright while it moves.

Operator location, concrete pads, power, photo eyes, and access controls should be laid out before the gate is fabricated. Moving the operator or guide posts after the gate arrives can create unnecessary compromises.

What affects the cost?

Sliding-gate pricing depends on the total frame length, steel design, posts, track or travel system, concrete, guide hardware, operator, power, safety devices, and access controls. The overall gate may be longer than the clear driveway opening, so pricing should reflect the fabricated length rather than only the width vehicles pass through.

Site preparation can also affect cost. Existing gravel, concrete, slope, drainage, landscaping, or limited space can change how the travel path and operator pad are built.

We'll make the scope clear—including materials, posts, gates, site access, demolition, and any specialized hardware that applies—so you know what's in the estimate.

Care and long-term performance

Keep the travel path and track clear, inspect rollers and guides, and address alignment changes before they create binding. Automated systems should also have their safety devices and operator components checked periodically.

A sliding operator should move a gate that already travels freely by hand. If the gate begins dragging or jumping the track, structural or roller issues should be corrected rather than increasing operator force.

Comparing your options

Compared with a swing gate, a sliding gate does not need a large arc in front of or behind the opening. That can be valuable on sloped approaches, busy vehicle areas, or entrances where parked vehicles would interfere with gate swing.

The tradeoff is side room. If the property does not have enough clear fence line for the gate to store and travel, a swing configuration may be more practical.

Frequently asked questions