Finding the best garden gate for your home is a great feeling, but getting to that point isn’t as simple as it might seem.
With so many materials, sizes, and styles to consider, it's easy to not know where to start. Don't worry, though. Our experts have pulled together everything you need to know in one place, so you can stop second-guessing and start shopping.
What do I need to consider before buying a garden gate?
Before you start browsing our garden gates, it’s important to get an idea of what you’re actually looking for. There are a few key things that you’ll want to consider.
Functionality and access
First, think about what you need your gate to do. Are you keeping pets and children safely contained, securing valuable tools, or just adding a boundary to your garden?
Once you've nailed down the purpose, you can also think about practicalities like swing direction. If your garden opens onto a public pathway or road, for example, your gate should always swing inward rather than outward.
Materials and maintenance
You’ll also need to decide which type of material best suits your home and your needs. Here at Stellar Gates, we offer a range of hardwood and softwood gates, and we’ll get into deciding which one suits you and your home best later on in this guide.
Hardware and security
A garden gate is only as good as its fittings, and here at Stellar Gates we offer premium gate ironmongery that’s built to stand the test of time.
If you’re looking to keep things simple, check out our gate ironmongery kits, which come with everything you need for a stress-free installation in one convenient package.
Legal restrictions
In the UK, garden gates usually fall under permitted development rights, which means that you won’t usually need planning permission.
However, you will need to apply if your gate exceeds 1 metre in height (if next to a road, footpath, or public right of way) or 2 metres in height anywhere else, so it's well worth keeping your gate measurements in mind before making a purchase.
What material is best for a garden gate?
The material that you choose really depends on what you’re looking for from your gate.
Our hardwood gates are made using premium Iroko timber. Nicknamed ‘African Teak’, Iroko is actually more resilient to the elements than the much-loved traditional oak, withstanding the challenges of British weather, from heavy rain to strong UV rays - making them a great investment for your home.
Our softwood gates, on the other hand, are made with sustainable Scandinavian Redwood, a durable and cost-effective option with a unique look. Easy on the eye and resistant to decay, Scandinavian Redwood is the perfect all-rounder for the everyday garden gate, no matter what size or style you need.
So what’s the difference?
While Scandinavian Redwood is a strong quality softwood, it is not as durable as Iroko, and it will need a bit more maintenance over time to keep it looking its very best. Our Iroko gates are better for those wanting a premium gate with a longer lifespan and less ongoing upkeep, whereas our Scandinavian Redwood gates are better suited to those wanting a quality gate at a lower initial price who are happy to carry out that extra bit of maintenance.
What size garden gate do I need?
Getting the right measurements is essential before placing your order. Here's how to calculate your gate size while also making the necessary deductions for posts and fitting gaps.
Garden gate width
If the width at the top and bottom of your opening are not the same, always use the smallest measurement. Deduct 30mm from the total opening width to allow a 15mm fitting gap on each side. If you are ordering gate posts, also deduct 45mm per post from your overall brick-to-brick measurement (two gate posts = 90mm in total).
Example: For a side gate with a brick-to-brick opening of 970mm, requiring two wall posts: 970 − 90 − 30 = 850mm
Garden gate height
Order the gate height from the bottom of the gate to the top of the horns at the side. We recommend leaving a 30mm gap below the gate during installation.
We're always here to help if you'd like us to check your measurements. Just get in touch by phone or email and we'll be happy to assist.
How much does the average garden gate cost?
Here at Stellar Gates, the cost of a garden gate varies depending on size, material, and design. Softwood garden gates range from roughly £250 to £450, while hardwood options start at around £450 and can go beyond £800 for larger or more intricate designs.
One thing worth keeping in mind is that the gate itself isn't the only cost to factor in. You may also want to budget for gate ironmongery, gate posts, and any finishing treatments, especially if you go for a softwood gate that needs some extra upkeep.
Frequently asked questions
Still weighing up your options? We've pulled together some of the most common questions we hear from customers to help you make the right choice. From installation advice to maintenance tips, here's what you need to know.
How long will my wooden garden gate last?
The lifespan of a wooden gate really depends on the material and how well it's maintained. Our Iroko hardwood gates, when well cared for, can last 20-30 years or more! Scandinavian Redwood softwood gates can have a shorter lifespan, but with regular treatment (such as annual staining or sealing) you can expect use for years to come.
Can I paint or stain my garden gate?
Yes, and we do recommend it for softwood gates in particular. Applying a quality wood stain or preservative helps protect against moisture, UV damage, and general wear. Hardwood gates like Iroko can also be treated or left to weather naturally to a silver-grey patina, depending on your preference.
Check out our guide to treating your garden gate for more useful info.
Which way should my garden gate open?
Your gate should always open inward into your property, away from the public pavement or road. This is both a safety requirement and common courtesy to your neighbours, making sure your gate doesn't swing into pedestrians or passing traffic. If you're unsure about the best configuration for your specific setup, our team is happy to help!
What ironmongery do I need for a garden gate?
At a minimum, you'll need hinges, a latch or lock, and potentially a gate stop. The exact fittings will depend on your gate style and post setup. For a hassle-free option, our ironmongery kits include everything you need in one package, ensuring all components are compatible and correctly sized for an easy installation.
Can I install a garden gate myself?
Many of our customers choose to install their gates themselves, and with the right tools and preparation it's a very manageable (and fun!) DIY project. Our gates come with installation guidance, and our team is always available to answer any questions you have along the way. If you'd prefer a professional installation, we'd recommend contacting a local joiner or fencing specialist.
Do you offer made-to-measure gates?
Yes we do! If your opening doesn't match a standard size, we can create a gate to your exact specifications. Simply get in touch with our team with your measurements and we'll be happy to discuss your options. We want to make sure every customer finds the perfect garden gate for their home, whatever space they’re working with.
Ready to buy your garden gate?
And there you have it! Now you've got everything you need to find the best garden gate for your home. Whether you go for our Cheshire gate in Scandinavian Redwood, a Lancashire gate in Iroko Hardwood, or something else entirely, you can rest assured that you’re getting a bespoke, high-quality product that’s handcrafted in our Cheshire workshop using the best timbers available.
If you need further advice, see our useful guides page for more information. Or, feel free to contact us with any questions you may have. We’d be happy to help!