Wednesday, September 19, 2012

Ideas For Gates For Backyards

A wrought iron gate can provide an elegant, formal look for your backyard.


For privacy and safety reasons, many homeowners choose to fence in their backyard and property. A gate is obviously necessary to provide access to the yard, but it can also add a decorative element to an otherwise boring fence. In many cases, a backyard gate is chosen based on the material that is used for the rest of the fence. However, if you are shopping for a new gate for your yard, you do not necessarily have to match it to your fence. Several attractive options are available for a backyard gate, and mixing materials can give your home an individualized look. Does this Spark an idea?


Wooden Gate


For a traditional look, a wooden backyard gate is an ideal option. Because it is a natural material, wood can give the entryway to your yard a warm, inviting feeling. Wood also offers a variety of design options, so you can choose to decorate the top of the gate with lattice, scalloped or curved detail. The posts in a wooden gate may be placed flush against one another for use with a privacy fence or spread out in a picket style if privacy is not an issue. In addition, you can further customize the look of your wooden gate by adding a stain or coat of paint to brighten its look.


Wrought Iron Gate


With a home that features a more formal look, a wrought iron gate may be the most complementary option. Traditionally, wrought iron gates are extremely ornate, with detailed patterns, scroll work and other designs giving them a highly decorative look. These gates are often custom-made, which allows you to create a personalized design, such as having your family's initials or an image of your favorite plant or animals used for the gate's pattern. Wrought iron gates are highly durable as well, so you do not have to worry about replacing your gate often. However, they are also one of the most expensive types of gates and may not fit your price range if you are on a budget.


Aluminum Gate


For a budget-friendly alternative to a wrought iron gate, choose a decorative aluminum option. Made to mimic the look of wrought iron, aluminum gates are available in a wide range of sizes, designs and colors. Black aluminum gates are best for simulating the look of wrought iron, but you may also choose from white, hunter green, bronze and sandstone to give your gate a truly standout look. When it comes to design, you may opt for a gate with an arched or curved top, pointed post caps or scroll details. As with wrought iron fences, custom aluminum gates are available as well, so you can create a truly individual design for your backyard.


Vinyl Gate


A vinyl gate is an ideal option if you are in search of a highly durable, low-maintenance gate for your backyard. Vinyl does not rot like wood or rust like metal and can easily be cleaned by spraying with a garden hose. In most cases, vinyl gates are white or another light shade, but they are available in many different designs, including lattice, picket and privacy styles. A vinyl gate is also one of the less expensive options for backyard gates, so it may be an ideal fit if you are on a budget.







Tags: aluminum gates, backyard gate, iron gate, look wrought, wrought iron