Gate maintenance is one of the biggest concerns we hear from customers. After twenty years in the business, we've seen how different materials perform over time, and the maintenance requirements can vary dramatically.

The question usually comes up when customers are comparing options, especially those who've had bad experiences with high-maintenance gates in the past.

From our experience in selling hundreds of gates across different materials, we can give you realistic expectations about what each type actually requires.

Quick Answer: Aluminium gates require the least maintenance, needing only annual cleaning. Powder-coated steel gates need attention every 3-5 years, while wooden gates require treatment every 2-3 years and traditional wrought iron needs repainting every 4-6 years.

     

Aluminium gates - the clear winner

Aluminium consistently performs best for low maintenance in our experience. The oldest aluminium gates we installed are now fifteen years old and still look excellent with nothing more than occasional cleaning.

The natural oxide layer that forms on aluminium prevents corrosion, even when the powder coating gets scratched. We've seen aluminium gates in coastal locations that would have destroyed steel gates years ago.

Most customers are surprised by how little attention aluminium gates need. Annual cleaning with soapy water is usually sufficient, even for gates near busy roads.

The powder coating on quality aluminium gates typically lasts 15-20 years before showing any significant fading. Even then, it's cosmetic rather than structural.

 

Powder-coated steel - reasonable maintenance

Modern powder-coated steel gates perform much better than traditional painted options. The powder coating provides superior protection compared to conventional paint systems.

We typically see powder-coated steel gates needing attention every 3-5 years, usually for minor touch-ups where the coating has been damaged.

The key advantage is that small chips or scratches can be touched up easily before rust takes hold. Once rust starts spreading, repair becomes much more expensive.

Quality powder coating makes a significant difference. Gates with proper preparation and thick coating layers last much longer than cheaper alternatives.

Traditional wrought iron - higher maintenance

Traditional wrought iron gates require regular painting to prevent rust. From our experience, most need repainting every 4-6 years depending on exposure conditions.

The maintenance cycle usually involves wire brushing, rust treatment, priming, and applying two top coats. It's time-consuming work that many customers prefer to have done professionally.

We've maintained some beautiful Victorian-style gates for over a decade, but they do require commitment to regular maintenance schedules.

Customers who choose wrought iron usually accept the maintenance requirements for the authentic appearance and craftsmanship.

Wooden gates - ongoing commitment required

Wooden gates need the most regular attention in our experience. Quality hardwood gates require treatment every 2-3 years, while softwood gates often need annual treatment.

Weather exposure significantly affects maintenance frequency. Gates in sheltered positions last longer between treatments than those exposed to driving rain and full sun.

We've seen untreated wooden gates deteriorate rapidly, sometimes beyond economic repair within 5-7 years. Regular maintenance is essential for longevity.

The type of wood makes a significant difference. Oak and other hardwoods are more durable but also more expensive initially.

Location makes a difference

Coastal properties present the biggest maintenance challenges for any metal gates. Salt air accelerates corrosion and coating deterioration.

We've installed gates near the coast where aluminium was the only sensible long-term choice. Steel gates in the same locations required much more frequent attention.

Urban environments with higher pollution can also affect coating longevity, though the differences are less dramatic than coastal exposure.

Sheltered positions, such as gates set back from main roads, generally require less maintenance regardless of material.

What we see in practice

Over the years, we've tracked maintenance patterns across different materials and locations. Aluminium consistently requires the least intervention.

Customer satisfaction tends to be highest with aluminium gates, partly because maintenance surprises are rare. The initial cost premium often pays for itself in reduced ongoing expenses.

Steel gate maintenance is predictable if you stay on top of it. Problems arise when customers ignore minor damage and let rust take hold.

Wooden gates can look beautiful when well-maintained, but they do require ongoing commitment and regular expense.

Cost of ownership perspective

When calculating lifetime costs, maintenance expenses can significantly affect the total investment required.

Professional repainting of steel gates typically costs £200-400 per gate every few years. Wooden gate treatment is usually £100-200 annually.

Aluminium gates might cost more initially, but maintenance costs over 15-20 years are minimal compared to other options.

We often recommend aluminium to customers who want attractive gates without ongoing maintenance commitments.

Automation considerations

Automated gates add complexity regardless of material choice. The motors and control systems require regular servicing independent of gate material.

However, gate material still affects long-term costs. Automation systems work better when gates remain structurally sound and properly balanced.

Poorly maintained gates can strain automation systems, leading to premature motor failures and higher servicing costs.

Professional recommendations

For customers prioritising low maintenance, we typically recommend quality aluminium gates with proper powder coating warranties.

Those preferring traditional appearance might choose powder-coated steel but should budget for periodic maintenance.

Wooden gates suit customers who enjoy regular DIY maintenance or don't mind ongoing professional treatment costs.

The key is making an informed choice based on realistic expectations about maintenance requirements and costs.

Understanding these differences upfront helps customers make decisions they'll be satisfied with long-term.

Looking for low-maintenance gate options? Browse our collection of aluminium gates and metal gates or contact us to discuss the best choice for your specific requirements and location.