
Driveway Gates Columbus Ohio | Premium Handcrafted Quality
Are you looking for a statement piece for your home in New Albany, a security gate for your estate in Dublin, or a rustic entrance for your property up in Delaware County?
At JDR Metal Art, we deliver what most local fence companies can’t: true custom artistry built with heavy-duty industrial strength. While other Columbus shops stick to standard wrought-iron bars, we use advanced CNC plasma cutting to create one-of-a-kind driveway gates that become the centerpiece of your property. We also carry a wide range of gate openers, access control systems, and custom gate options to meet the diverse needs of our customers.
A custom dual-swing driveway gate installed for a residence in Dublin, OH. This design offers the classic elegance of wrought iron but is crafted from heavy-duty steel to withstand Ohio winters. Designed for easy automation with solar or electric gate openers.
The JDR Difference: Why We Beat “Standard” Iron
In Columbus, the standard for driveway gates is often 1/8″ steel (11 gauge) or less. While that might be “good enough” for a garden fence, it isn’t enough for a 14-foot automated driveway gate that faces Ohio’s wind, ice, and daily opener torque.
We build our gates differently:
- Thicker Steel: We use 7 Gauge Steel for our structural frames. This is nearly twice as thick as the industry standard used by many local competitors.
- No Sagging: Our gates are engineered to hold their shape for decades, preventing the dreaded “gate sag” that ruins automatic opener alignment.
- Ohio Weather Proof: Every gate is sandblasted and coated with a zinc-rich primer and high-quality powder coat to withstand Columbus road salt and freeze-thaw cycles.
- Each gate is constructed with attention to durability and long-term performance, ensuring it stands up to years of use and weather.
Custom Designs for Central Ohio Architecture
We design gates to match the diverse architectural styles of Central Ohio.
- The “New Albany” Estate Look: Elegant, arched tops with personalized family initials and scrollwork that fit perfectly with Georgian brick mansions.
- The “Hocking Hills” Rustic Theme: Intricate plasma-cut designs featuring whitetail deer, pine trees, and cabin imagery for properties on the outskirts of the city.
- Modern German Village Style: Sleek, geometric patterns and privacy panels that offer security without blocking the light.
Custom gates can enhance both the security and curb appeal of your property, making your entrance both beautiful and functional. Attention to detail in our custom wood or metal gates creates a distinctive focal point that elevates your property’s appearance.
Direct Delivery & Installation Coordination
We make getting a custom gate in Columbus easy. We help you design it, then we build & powder coat it. We delivery directly to your driveway and coordinate with trusted local fence contractors and automation specialists in Franklin County such as Zimmer Door & Gate, Citywide Solutions or your own contractor to handle the installation. Some of our customers opt for a DIY installation and have even installed the automatic gate openers themselves. You get the manufacturer-direct price and superior quality, installed by local pros.
A custom driveway gate is a smart investment that adds value and security to your property.
Every job is handled with professionalism and attention to customer needs.
Compare JDR vs. Local Options
| Feature | JDR Metal Art | Typical Columbus Iron Shop |
|---|---|---|
| Frame Thickness | 7 Gauge (0.18″ thick) | 14-11 Gauge (.08 to 0.12″ thick) |
| Design Flexibility | Unlimited (Photos, Logos, Art) | Limited to Bars & Scrolls |
| Warranty | Lifetime Structural | Varies (often 1-5 years) |
| Process | CAD Proof Provided Before Cutting | “Standard” Catalog Selection |
A well-designed gate system enhances safety for residents and visitors.
Custom Gate Fabrication vs. “Kit” Gates
“Many homeowners in Upper Arlington and Dublin initially search for ‘Amazing Gates’ or similar DIY kits. However, they often switch to JDR Metal Art when they realize that ‘Kit’ gates often are low quality products that don’t withstand the test of time in Central Ohio’s unpredictable conditions. Unlike bolt-together kits, our custom fabricated gates are fully welded, marine-grade aluminum designed to survive Columbus winters forever.”
Custom gates can be designed for walk gates, deck railings, and even custom doors to match your overall property aesthetic.
Get a Free Quote for Your Columbus Home
Don’t settle for the same gate your neighbor has.
Contact us and let’s design a gate that puts your home on the map.
Frequently Asked Questions: Columbus Driveway Gates
Q: Who do you recommend for installation and automation in Columbus? While we focus on manufacturing the highest quality gates, we work closely with trusted local pros to get them installed and automated. For our Columbus clients, we frequently recommend:
- Citywide Solutions (Specialists in access control and automation).
- Zimmer Door and Gate (Experts in openers and entry systems).
- Local Handyman Services (Great for standard installations). We deliver the gate directly to your jobsite prior to installation, so it is ready and waiting for your contractor to hang. We are committed to providing excellent service throughout the entire process, ensuring your driveway gate project is completed smoothly and professionally.
Q: Will a metal gate rust in Columbus winters? Not if you choose the right material. For Columbus homeowners (especially in suburbs where road salt is used heavily), we strongly recommend our Marine-Grade Aluminum gates. Unlike steel, aluminum cannot rust. It withstands the harsh freeze-thaw cycles and salt spray of Central Ohio winters without corroding, ensuring your entrance looks brand new for decades.
Q: Do I need a permit to install a gate in Columbus or Franklin County? While every municipality (Dublin, New Albany, Powell, Upper Arlington) has slightly different rules, several require a zoning permit for a driveway gate.
- Common Rule: The gate usually must be set back a specific distance (often 20-30 feet) from the public road to ensure your car is off the street while the gate opens.
- How we help: We can provide the detailed CAD drawings and specs if you need to submit them to your local zoning board or HOA for approval.
Q: How does the gate get to my house? Since we are an Ohio-based company, we don’t ship your gate via a third-party freight carrier. We deliver it personally to your jobsite. This ensures your gate arrives safely, on time, and without the hassle of dealing with a trucking company. Each job is managed with care to ensure customer satisfaction. We will coordinate the drop-off date with you or your installer so the project stays on schedule.
Q: Which areas of Central Ohio do you serve? We deliver custom gates throughout the entire Greater Columbus area, including:
- Franklin County: Upper Arlington, Bexley, New Albany, Dublin, Hilliard, Reynoldsburg, and Grove City.
- Delaware County: Powell, Lewis Center, Galena, and Sunbury.
- Licking & Fairfield Counties: Pickerington, Pataskala, and beyond.
We are proud of our strong ties to the Columbus community and our reputation among local homeowners for quality and reliability.
Q: Can you customize the design (e.g., Buckeyes, Trees, Animals)? Absolutely. We are famous for our plasma-cut artistry. Whether you want a subtle “Block O” tribute, a realistic Whitetail Deer scene for a property in Delaware County, or a modern geometric design for a home in Victorian Village, we can cut it. You will receive a digital proof of the art to approve before we ever cut the metal.
Q: Steel vs. Aluminum: Which is better for Ohio?
- Aluminum: Best for maintenance-free longevity. It is lighter (easier on gate openers) and 100% rust-proof. This is our top choice for the Columbus area.
- Steel: Best for impact resistance. If you are in a rural area and need maximum strength for security or livestock, steel is a great option. We powder coat our steel with a zinc-rich primer to fight corrosion, but aluminum remains the king of weather resistance.
Q: Are you the same company as “Amazing Gates”?
A: No. JDR Metal Art has no affiliation with Amazing Gates. We are a family owned small business located in Central Ohio. While “Amazing Gates” is (or was, as the Better Business Bureau says they’ve gone out of business) known for selling standard-size, bolt-together kits, they were based out of Albuquerque, NM. We specialize in fully welded, custom-fabricated gates. If you are looking for an alternative to mass-produced kits—one that offers custom sizing, heavy-duty frames, and a Lifetime Structural Warranty—you have found the right place. We don’t just sell you a box of parts; we build a complete entry system tailored to your specific driveway.
Why Do Clients Choose JDR Metal Art?
A: Expert Gate Fabrication & Craftsmanship We are a family-owned business dedicated to high-quality gate fabrication right here in central Ohio. Unlike mass-produced imports, every piece is built to order, ensuring your entrance fits your property perfectly.
The Look of Wrought Iron, The Precision of Modern Art Our customers often look for the classic aesthetic of wrought iron gates, but we take it a step further. By using precision plasma cutting on heavy-duty steel and aluminum, we create custom iron gates and decorative metal gates featuring intricate wildlife and tree scenes that traditional wrought iron simply cannot achieve.
Direct-to-Consumer Value We offer our metal driveway gates for sale directly to homeowners and contractors nationwide. By cutting out the middleman, we provide superior custom art at a competitive price, shipped straight to your driveway for installation.
“Better Than Wrought Iron: The JDR Difference” “Many Columbus homeowners search for custom wrought iron gates for their historic charm. However, traditional wrought iron is heavy, prone to rust, and limited in design. At JDR Metal Art, we offer Ornamental Steel and Aluminum gates that capture the classic ‘wrought iron’ aesthetic but with modern advantages:
- Rust-Proof: Our aluminum gates survive salt and snow better than iron.
- Plasma Cut Art: Unlike iron bars, we can cut intricate wildlife and tree designs into your gate.”
Precision Custom Metal Gate Fabrication
While many search for traditional custom wrought iron driveway gates, we specialize in modern custom metal gate fabrication using high-grade steel and marine-grade aluminum. This allows us to achieve the classic, heavy-duty look of iron but with intricate details—like wildlife scenes and tree silhouettes—that traditional wrought iron cannot match. Whether you need custom residential gates or a massive commercial entry, our plasma-cut fabrication process delivers superior durability and artistic freedom.
Automatic Gate Systems for Ohio Winters
A standard electric gate opener can fail in a Columbus freeze. That’s why JDR Metal Art designs gates that are automation-ready with heavy-duty frames that won’t sag—the #1 cause of opener failure. Whether you are using a LiftMaster or a solar-powered Apollo system, our gates are engineered to work seamlessly with all major brands, ensuring your driveway remains accessible even in January snow.
Gate Installation in Columbus: DIY or Pro?”
- DIY Friendly: “Our gates are designed with bolt-on hinges specifically for the handy homeowner. If you can use a level and a wrench, you can install our gates in an afternoon.”
- Preferred Installers: “Don’t want to do it yourself? We work with trusted local contractors in Dublin, Powell, and Upper Arlington who specialize in installing JDR gates. We deliver the gate directly to them or to your driveway.
Gate Automation and Maintenance
Proper automation of a driveway gate is essential for property owners in Columbus, Ohio, who want to maximize both security and curb appeal. Whether you’re enhancing a residential gate or securing a commercial property, the installation process sets the foundation for long-term performance, easy access, and increased property value. By working with experienced professionals like Citywide Solutions, homeowners and businesses can receive expert advice, a free estimate, and a tailored consultation to determine the best gate automation solution for their unique needs.
A well-installed gate—be it a classic wrought iron gate, a modern aluminum design, or a custom steel barrier—can be customized to match the style and same height as your existing fence, creating a cohesive and secure perimeter that deters unwanted visitors. Custom designs allow you to match the aesthetic appeal of your house or business, ensuring your new gate not only protects but also enhances the visual appeal of your property.
Maintenance is just as important as installation when it comes to preserving the functionality and beauty of your gate. Different materials require different care: wood gates may need regular staining or sealing to withstand Ohio’s changing weather, while aluminum gates are low-maintenance but benefit from occasional cleaning to maintain their sleek appearance. Steel gates, especially those with decorative finishes, should be inspected periodically to ensure their protective coatings remain intact. By establishing a maintenance schedule with local professionals, property owners can ensure their gates remain secure, functional, and visually appealing year after year.
Integrating access control systems during installation adds another layer of security and convenience, allowing you to control who enters your property with ease. These systems are especially valuable for both residential and commercial properties, providing peace of mind and easy access for family, employees, or trusted visitors.
Investing in a high-quality gate, professional installation, and regular maintenance is a smart decision for any homeowner or business in Columbus, Ohio. Not only does it increase security and functionality, but it also enhances the style and value of your property. With a range of materials, custom designs, and expert installation services available, you can create a gate solution that perfectly matches your needs and elevates your property’s curb appeal for years to come.
