Fence Gate Cost: Pedestrian, Double-Drive, and Custom Options

Gates are the part of a fence that gets used 1,000 times a year and breaks first. Most gate failures come from undersized hinges, lightweight posts, or skipping the diagonal brace. Build the gate right or replace it every five years.

Gate cost by type

• Standard pedestrian (3–4 ft wide, matching fence material): $150–$350
• Double-drive (8–12 ft wide for vehicles): $400–$1,200
• Arched-top decorative: $300–$700
• Sliding driveway gate (manual): $800–$2,500
• Automated swing or slide gate: $3,000–$8,000+

Hardware that matters

Heavy-duty strap hinges ($30–$60 per pair) outlast the cheap T-hinges ($8–$15) that come with most pre-built gates by 5–10 years. Self-closing spring hinges add $40–$80 and are code-required around pools. Magnetic latches ($20–$40) outlast spring latches ($5–$15) by 3–5x.

Why gates sag

Every fence gate eventually sags — gravity wins. The fix is a diagonal brace running from the top hinge corner to the bottom latch corner (forming a triangle that transfers the load). On wood gates, this is 2x4 lumber. On metal gates, it's a tension cable. Without it, the gate sags within 18 months and rubs the latch post.

Gate post requirements

1. Gate posts should be 6x6 lumber (or 4" metal) — bigger than line posts
2. Set 12" deeper than line posts
3. Use extra concrete — 3 bags per gate post minimum
4. Brace temporarily for 48 hours after setting before hanging gate

Automation costs

Adding an automatic opener to an existing swing gate: $800–$2,000. Sliding gate openers: $1,500–$3,500. Solar-powered options eliminate trenching for power. Most homeowners don't need automation; if you do, factor it into the initial gate design — retrofitting is expensive.