How Long Does It Take to Build a Custom Driveway Gate?
Due to the custom nature of our work and high demand, our current lead time for a standard driveway gate is typically 8 to 12 weeks from the date of deposit. This timeline allows for the necessary CAD design approval, precision laser/plasma cutting, hand fabrication, and our multi-stage powder coating process to ensure a flawless, heirloom-quality finish.
Phase 1: The Design Queue (Weeks 1–3)
The clock starts when your deposit is received.
- CAD Drawings: We don’t just start cutting. We create a detailed CAD (Computer-Aided Design) proof of your specific gate—scaled to your exact driveway width.
- Your Approval: We send this proof to you for review. We do not cut a single piece of metal until you sign off on the design. Note: Quick responses from you here keep the project moving!
Phase 2: Fabrication (Weeks 4–8)
Once the design is locked, your project enters the physical production queue.
- Cutting: Your unique gate is cut using our laser or plasma cutting process.
- Welding: Our certified welders hand-assemble the frame, weld the hinges, and attach the artwork. This isn’t an assembly line; it’s a craft.
- Sandblasting: Every inch of the gate is blasted to raw white metal to prepare it for coating.
Phase 3: The Coating Process (Weeks 9–10)
This is the step most shops rush, but we don’t.
- Zinc Primer: We apply the zinc-rich epoxy primer (for steel) and bake it.
- Top Coat: We apply the Super Durable color coat and bake it again.
- Cooling & Curing: The gate must fully cure before we can touch it to prevent marking the finish.
Phase 4: Crating & Shipping (or Personal Delivery) (Week 11+)
- Crating: We build a custom timber crate around your finished gate.
- Freight Pickup: We schedule the LTL carrier. Once it leaves our shop, transit times generally range from 2–5 days depending on your distance from Ohio.
Can I Rush My Order?
We generally work on a “First-In, First-Out” basis to be fair to all our clients. Quality cannot be rushed—curing times and welding precision are non-negotiable. However, if you have a strict construction deadline (like a brick column being poured), please let us know upfront so we can coordinate with your contractors.
