Sliding Driveway Gates — Complete Guide
Sliding driveway gates are an increasingly popular choice for UK homeowners, particularly those with short driveways, sloping ground or wide openings. Unlike swing gates that require a clear arc to open, sliding gates travel horizontally along the boundary wall or fence line, meaning they need virtually no driveway space to operate. At Driveway Driveway Gates, we offer both ground-tracked and cantilever sliding gate systems in a wide range of materials and designs.
Why Choose Our Sliding Gates?
If your driveway opens directly onto a road with limited setback, a sliding gate is often the only practical automated option. Swing gates require several metres of clear space behind them to open fully, which many UK driveways simply cannot accommodate. Sliding gates eliminate this problem entirely. Our cantilever systems go further still — they require no ground track, meaning no trench to dig and no track to keep clear of debris and ice. This makes them particularly suited to gravel driveways and areas with heavy leaf fall.
How It Works
After your enquiry, we assess your site to determine whether a ground-tracked or cantilever system is most appropriate. We consider the available run-back space (the wall or fence line where the gate slides to), the driveway surface, gradient and any obstacles. We then design your gate to the correct proportions and specify the appropriate motor. Installation typically takes one to two days including groundworks, gate fitting and automation commissioning.
Maintenance & Aftercare
Ground-tracked sliding gates should have their track cleaned regularly to remove debris. Cantilever systems require less ground-level maintenance but benefit from periodic roller and motor checks. We recommend an annual service for all automated sliding gate systems to ensure smooth, reliable operation year-round.
