Adding a sliding gate to your home will undoubtedly make it feel more secure, as well as reinforce a further luxurious feel to your home. However, you might be put off by the installation price of one.

Thankfully, there is a process you can follow that allows you to do it yourself - which we've outlined below. Read on to find out how to install a sliding gate on your own and what tools you'll need, as well as what actions to avoid when doing so...

What Tools Will I Need to Fit a Sliding Gate?

There are several tools you will need to fit a sliding gate in your home. Ensure you have these prior to starting, so you can be sure you have everything you need and there's less chance of mistakes being made.

Tools you should have include:

• Tape measure
• Level
• Hammer
• Screwdriver
• Drill and drill bits
• Safety glasses
• Work gloves

Depending on the type of sliding gate you install, you might need other tools as well as the list above. Check with your supplier first to confirm what equipment is necessary for installation.

What Safety Measures Should I Take When Installing a Sliding Gate?

In any DIY project, safety must come first - and installing a sliding gate by yourself is no different. Ensure you wear safety glasses to protect your eyes from flying debris or accidental slips with the tools you use.

It helps to also wear safety gloves to protect your hands from the above, too. And, it doesn't hurt to have an extra pair of hands, so ask a capable friend or family member to help you out.

Sliding Gate Installation in 8 Simple Steps

To ensure you install a sliding gate in your home most efficiently and effectively, follow the seven steps we've highlighted below:

1. Dig two holes

You'll first need to dig two holes in your garden so you can place the two gate posts that will hold the gate up. Ensure you've accurately measured the height and width of your chosen gate first; this will inform how far you need to space the two holes you dig apart. You can then install the two posts, making sure they are plumb by using a spirit level.

2. Ensure You Have Suitable Footing

Step two is to ensure you have suitable footing for your gate. This means including enough space for the sliding gate to open and close, as well as ensuring the surface the gate is on is concrete. If the surface is not concrete, it can be less sturdier and the gate may be less reliable at functioning.

3. Cut The Track to Length And Place On The Ground

Next, you need to cut the track to length and place it on the ground. Ensure you check your gate measurements. Avoid attaching the track properly until you have checked everything fits as it should.

4. Attach Two Wheels To The Bottom Of The Gate

After the above, it's now time to attach two wheels to the bottom of your sliding gate. Measure and mark two separate points where you want your wheels to go on the gate - ensuring they are an equal distance apart. Attach the wheel bracket to the marked spot and secure it with bolts and nuts. Then, attach the wheel to the bracket.

5. Add The Gate To The Track

Ensure the track is free of debris and lay it on the ground; it should extend beyond where the gate opens so it can slide open and close with ease. You can secure the track with concrete bases or other types of fasteners. Check it is straight and lift the gate on the track, ensuring the wheels are securely sat on it. Check it all works by rolling the gate.

6. Install Guide Brackets On Both Pillars

Now you've attached your gate to the track, you can install guide brackets on both gate posts. These are applied to both sides of where the gate opens and are important as they keep the gate upright and aligned at the sides.

7. Add A Hard Stop To The Track

Finally, you just need to attach a hard stop to the track. This stops the gate from rolling too far away. You'll need to drill a hole into the track (if it is not pre-drilled), then align the hard stop with the holes. Secure the bolts with nuts, then test the hard stop by running the gate gently along it. It should remain in place and not shift when the gate interacts with it.

To find out more about installing a driveway gate, check out our guide.

What To Avoid When Installing A Sliding Gate

When installing a sliding gate for the first time, there are some challenges you can encounter. To avoid making mistakes or malfunctions, check out the actions we suggest avoiding when doing so below:

• Avoid placing fasteners where there are cracks/joints in concrete: If you do, it can jeopardise the stability of the concrete. You should also avoid putting them too close to the edge of the concrete.
• Avoid setting track into the groove of a driveway: It might seem counterintuitive, but doing this can make installation more difficult, and means you'll have to clean dirt out of the groove constantly.
• Avoid a misshapen track: Ensure your track is straight and level. If you have uneven terrain, you can install extra wheels or use levelling blocks to make it more even.

Protect Your Home With Help from Stellar Gates

A set of sliding gates might be just what you need to make your home feel more secure. If you're looking for a set of hardwood sliding gates or wooden sliding gates, we have a range available to you at Stellar Gates, no matter where you're located in the UK. 

For more information, or to see how we can help you, get in touch today or visit our FAQ & Support page. If you’d like to learn more about what our customers have to say, check out our Trustpilot reviews.