Residential gates

Residential gates designed for daily use—not as an afterthought.

Blue Squirrel plans pedestrian and driveway gates around opening width, frequency of use, grade, structure, hardware, privacy, pets, and the surrounding fence. We serve Boulder County and neighboring Front Range communities.

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Cedar and black steel driveway and pedestrian gates at a mountain home

A dependable gate starts with the opening

Best fit

Yard entries, side gates, driveway openings, pet access, pool enclosures, and coordinated fence replacements.

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Common failure points

Undersized posts, weak frames, excess width, poor hinge geometry, grade conflicts, and mismatched latches are frequent causes of sag and unreliable closure.

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Scope and cost factors

Width, height, material, frame, posts, hardware, automation readiness, access control, grade, and tie-in conditions shape the project.

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Our process

Design the gate around movement, weight, and daily routines

We verify clear opening, swing or slide space, grade, post support, hardware, latch location, and the way people, pets, vehicles, or equipment will use it.

  1. 1

    Site walk & priorities

    We review the fence line, grade, access, gates, drainage, privacy, pets, and the way the property is used.

  2. 2

    Selections & written scope

    We confirm materials, heights, posts, gates, removals, finish details, responsibilities, and pricing in writing.

  3. 3

    Installation & daily checks

    The crew lays out the work, installs the system, checks alignment and hardware, and keeps the work area organized.

  4. 4

    Final walkthrough & care

    We test gates, review the completed fence, explain care and warranty information, and document any final adjustments.

Questions about residential gates

Why do residential fence gates sag?

Sag can result from an undersized frame, inadequate bracing, heavy infill, loose hardware, post movement, or excessive width. A durable gate begins with the opening, frame, posts, hinges, and latch planned together.

Should a fence gate swing in or out?

Swing direction depends on grade, walkways, traffic, property lines, pool rules, snow, and how the space is used. The gate should open fully without creating a hazard or crossing an inappropriate boundary.

Can a driveway gate be automated later?

Sometimes, but planning for automation early is better. Gate geometry, posts, operator type, power, safety devices, access control, vehicle clearance, and emergency access can all affect the original design.

How wide should a residential gate be?

Pedestrian gates are sized around daily use, while utility and driveway gates must accommodate equipment and turning movements. Wider is not automatically better because weight and leverage increase with the opening.

Can a new gate be added to an existing fence?

Often, yes, if the surrounding posts, rails, and material can support the opening. The existing fence may need reinforcement or new structural posts rather than simply cutting out a panel.

Plan a residential gate that works every day.

Tell us the opening width, material, users, grade, hardware needs, and whether future automation is being considered.

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