One of the first decisions you need to make when planning your driveway entrance is the configuration: should you use one long gate (Single Swing) or two shorter gates that meet in the middle (Dual Swing)?
At JDR Metal Art, we design and build both. The “right” choice often depends on your driveway’s slope, your budget, and the available space.
The Single Swing Gate
A single swing gate consists of one gate panel that swings from a single hinge post.
Pros:
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Lower Cost: You only need one set of hinges and, if automating, only one gate opener. This can save you hundreds or even thousands of dollars on automation equipment.
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Simplicity: With fewer moving parts, there is less maintenance and alignment required over time.
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Aesthetics: Great for a modern, seamless look as the design pattern is uninterrupted by a center gap.
Cons:
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Swing Clearance: A 14′ single gate needs 14 feet of empty space behind it to swing open. If your driveway is short or curved, this might not fit.
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Post Stress: The entire weight of the gate hangs on one post. This requires a heavy-duty steel post and proper foundation (which we provide).
Best For: Flat driveways with plenty of “swing room” behind the entrance.
The Dual Swing (Bi-Parting) Gate
Dual swing gates consist of two panels that open from the center, like French doors.
Pros:
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Less Swing Clearance: A 14′ opening only requires two 7′ leaves. This means they only need 7 feet of space to swing open, making them perfect for shorter driveways.
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Classic Appeal: This is the traditional “estate gate” look that many homeowners prefer.
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Weight Distribution: The weight is split between two posts, which puts less stress on the hinge components.
Cons:
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Higher Automation Cost: You need a dual-gate opener kit (two motors/arms) and wiring that runs across the driveway to connect them.
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Alignment: The two gates must meet perfectly in the center. Over years of ground settling, they may need occasional adjustment to keep the latch lined up.
Best For: Driveways with limited space, steep slopes, or wide openings (over 16 feet).
Which is Stronger?
A common myth is that single gates are prone to sagging. While this is true for cheap tube gates, it is not true for ours. At JDR Metal Art, we use heavy-gauge steel and ball-bearing hinges. We routinely build single-swing gates up to 16 feet wide that stay perfectly level year after year.
Still Undecided?
If you send us a photo of your driveway entrance, we can recommend the best configuration for your terrain. Click here to contact us or browse our Gallery of Single and Dual Gates.