Driveway gates are not just about enhancing the aesthetics of your property; they also play a significant role in security, privacy, and access control. Among the most popular options today are bifolding gates, cantilever gates, and sliding security gates. Each type offers unique advantages and design possibilities, making it crucial to understand how they compare before making a final decision.
At Secure Entry Solutions, we specialise in delivering tailored gate systems that balance form and function. Whether you’re a homeowner, a property developer, or a commercial site manager, this guide will help you choose the most suitable gate system for your driveway.
What Are Bifolding Gates?
Bifolding gates are hinged gates divided into two or more panels that fold back on themselves, similar to the mechanism of a concertina or bi-folding door. These gates are typically automated, although manual versions exist.
Key characteristics:
- Fold neatly to one or both sides
- Require less swing space than traditional swing gates
- Ideal for narrow driveways or restricted spaces
Because they’re space-efficient and sleek, bifolding gates are increasingly favoured for both residential and commercial properties.
Comparing Bifolding Gates to Cantilever Gates
Cantilever gates, in contrast, operate without ground tracks. They are suspended above the ground and slide sideways using rollers and a counterbalance system. This design makes them particularly suited to uneven terrain or driveways where traditional tracked gates would falter.
Key benefits of cantilever gates:
- No ground track, which means no obstruction or risk of clogging
- Smooth and quiet operation
- Perfect for snowy, muddy, or debris-prone conditions
How bifolding gates compare:
- Space efficiency: Bifolding gates fold inward, consuming even less lateral space than cantilever gates.
- Installation complexity: Cantilever gates require precise calibration due to their counterbalance design, whereas bifolding gates are mechanically simpler.
- Maintenance: Cantilever gates have fewer moving parts exposed to wear and tear. Bifolding gates require regular checks on hinges and motors.
- Security level: Both offer high security, but cantilever gates tend to be more robust and harder to force open due to their single-panel design.
In conclusion, if terrain is a concern or you need ultra-durable security, cantilever gates may edge out bifolding ones. However, bifolding gates excel in tight spaces and add architectural charm.
How Do Bifolding Gates Compare to Sliding Security Gates?
Sliding security gates glide open along a track that is fixed to the ground. They are most commonly seen in commercial environments due to their solid construction and minimal intrusion into driveway space.
Key advantages:
- Strong, durable, and ideal for high-traffic areas
- Excellent wind resistance due to single-panel design
- Integrate well with access control and CCTV systems
Bifolding gates vs. sliding gates:
- Opening speed: Bifolding gates open much faster, making them ideal for high-turnover residential areas.
- Track requirements: Sliding gates need a clean and straight track; bifolding gates do not.
- Space usage: Both are suitable for short driveways, but bifolding gates can be installed where lateral space is insufficient for a full-length sliding panel.
- Aesthetic flexibility: Bifolding gates offer more decorative potential due to their segmented design.
For homeowners or boutique hotels where appearance and quick access matter, bifolding gates are the preferred choice. On the other hand, sliding security gates are unmatched for industrial-scale protection and durability.
Why Choose Secure Entry Solutions for Your Gate Installation?
Secure Entry Solutions provides expert design, supply, and installation of all gate types including bifolding, sliding, and cantilever systems. With years of experience across the UK, we understand the nuances of terrain, usage, and local planning regulations.
What we offer:
- Bespoke gate designs tailored to your property
- Full integration with intercom, CCTV, and access control
- Regular maintenance plans for long-term performance
- Emergency response services for gate faults
From private homes to retail parks, we build gate systems that last.
Pros and Cons Table
| Feature/Type | Bifolding Gates | Cantilever Gates | Sliding Security Gates |
|---|---|---|---|
| Space efficiency | Excellent | Good | Good |
| Aesthetic appeal | High | Moderate | Moderate |
| Track required | No | No | Yes |
| Security level | High | Very High | Very High |
| Installation cost | Moderate | High | Moderate |
| Terrain suitability | Flat or slight slope | Uneven/steep | Flat only |
| Maintenance need | Moderate | Low | Moderate |
Conclusion
When selecting a driveway gate, the choice between bifolding gates, cantilever gates, and sliding security gates comes down to your specific site conditions, usage needs, and design preferences.
Bifolding gates shine in compact spaces and offer fast, stylish access. Cantilever gates deliver exceptional performance on uneven ground, while sliding security gates stand as the gold standard in robust commercial security.
Whatever your requirements, Secure Entry Solutions is ready to assist with expert advice, custom solutions, and professional installation across the UK. Let us help you secure your space—without compromise.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are bifolding gates secure enough for commercial premises?
Yes. When properly installed with reinforced frames and locking systems, bifolding gates can provide excellent security for commercial properties.
Can cantilever gates work on steep slopes?
Absolutely. Their design makes them ideal for locations where the ground is not level or consistent.
What is the maintenance cost for sliding security gates?
While costs vary depending on usage, most systems require quarterly checks on motors, tracks, and control units, which Secure Entry Solutions can manage through service plans.
Do bifolding gates require planning permission in the UK?
In many cases, no. However, it’s always wise to check with your local council, especially if the gates are over 2 metres high or near a public highway.
Are automatic gates safe for children and pets?
Yes. Modern gates include safety features like obstacle detection, motion sensors, and soft-close systems to prevent injury.
Which gate option lasts the longest?
Cantilever and sliding security gates typically have the longest lifespans, especially in high-traffic or industrial environments.
