Metal Framed Driveway Gates

A metal framed driveway gate uses a structural frame made from steel or aluminium, with infill boards — typically timber or composite — set within that frame. The metal frame provides rigidity and load-bearing strength, while the infill determines the overall appearance of the gate.

Common infill options include timber boards and composite boards. Timber gives a traditional, natural finish and can be painted or stained. Composite boards offer a wood-look appearance without the need for regular painting, staining, or treatment. The metal frame carries the structural load in both cases.

A solid metal gate uses metal for both the frame and the visible face. A metal framed gate uses metal only for the structural frame, with timber or composite panels forming the front face. This changes both the look and the weight — an infill gate of the same size may be lighter or heavier depending on the materials chosen, and the frame can be sized to suit the infill rather than the full visual surface.

A pure composite gate typically relies on composite material for most or all of its structure. In a metal framed gate, the steel or aluminium frame handles the structural work, while composite boards are used as infill. This means the frame can be specified for the gate width and hinge loading independently of the infill choice.

The metal frame provides structural rigidity, helping the gate keep its shape over time. This is particularly relevant on wider driveway gates, where sagging or twisting can otherwise become an issue.

Both steel and aluminium are available. Steel offers greater strength for a given section size. Aluminium is a strong alternative that is generally more expensive and slightly less strong, but it offers a good balance of durability and lighter weight, which can make automation easier.

Yes. Swing and sliding motor kits can be added at the time of order or retrofitted. Aluminium-framed gates are lighter and may allow a smaller motor to be specified, but steel-framed gates can also be automated.

The visible metal frame can be powder coated in any RAL colour — matt black and anthracite grey are popular choices. Timber infill can be painted or stained separately. Composite infill is supplied in its manufactured finish, so the frame colour should be selected to work with that.

Frame thickness varies depending on the gate width, height, metal chosen, and infill material specified. Contact us with your gate size and infill preference, and we can confirm the exact frame section for your design before ordering.

We offer gate options suitable for coastal and exposed locations. The metal frame, frame finish, and infill material can all be selected with the site conditions in mind — contact us to discuss your location so we can recommend the most appropriate combination.