Overscallop Estate Gate: Safety and Style

Not much adds an air of prestige and class to a property like an estate gate. Estate gates—also known as driveway gates and drive gates—tend to be placed on a driveway to block or grant cars entrance. These gates are usually made of sturdy ornamental iron, which adds to the security and privacy of the property.

Style

Overscallop is the most popular style of estate gate. Overscallop gates (also known as an arch top gate) have upper rails that are bent up in the middle to make an elegant upsweeping arch.

A black ornamental iron overscallop estate gate next to the side of the house

Slide and Swing Gates

The two most common types of estate gates are slide gates and swing gates. Swing gates are relatively maintenance-free and less expensive, making them by far the most common. Slide gates are tricky because their tracks need to be clear of debris at all times. Slide gates don’t need as much room to operate though, as they only need to move along the fence. Those with a sloped driveway are in a tighter spot and may have to go with a slide gate. However, swing gates can still be installed if the ground slopes down toward the house.

Options for the Average Joe

Overscallop estate gates usually bring to mind mansions and high-class properties. Most people would be surprised to discover that these gates have become readily available to average, middle-class homes as well. Homeowners now have a variety of economical automatic opener and gate and options available from most home improvement retailers.

Overscallop Estate Gate Advantages

These driveway gates are a worthwhile addition to your home for three key reasons:

  1. Safety: These gates limit access to pedestrians and vehicles, adding an extra layer of security to your property. The mere presence of an estate gate also implies you have a high-level security system, which can discourage a burglary before it even happens.
  2. Curbside Appeal: Since these gates are associated with elite residences, they automatically give off a feeling of elegance and stature. Overscallop estate gates can be simple and polished, or they can have additional trimming and adornments.
  3. Increased Property Value: A property with more security and a sophisticated appearance automatically has an increased value in the housing market.

Safety First

Since a overscallop estate gate is motorized and moves on its own, there are precautions one should follow to avoid injury.

  • Install your gate so that the doors open toward your house, not the street. You don’t want the doors to hit your car, or force you to back up toward the street where you could cause an accident.
  • If you have a digital keypad, keep it at least 10 feet away from any moving part of the gate. You don’t want the keypad anywhere near where someone could try and reach through the gate to use it.
  • Never allow children to stand near or play on the gate or open and close it for fun.
  • Make sure all family members know not to touch or play with the gate hinges as these parts easily pinch fingers.
  • Instruct children and other family members to stay far away from the gate when it’s opening and closing.

If you’re looking to improve your house’s appearance and gain some peace of mind, an overscallop estate gate could be perfect for you. Visit America’s Gate Company to look into your options today.