Sort of ME related as it protects my workshops.
Access to the rear of my property is between two garages (one mine, one a neighbours), so I have a passage approximatelty 30" wide. I currently have a wooden gate with a dead bolt fitted that is padlocked at night. Teh gate is about 3' tall with another 30" (or so) of picket fence uprights to make it a bit more tricky (and to stop my dogs jumping over and escaping). I am fortunate and we don't appear to have a major theft problem (so far) but the gate is tired so I am looking at replacing it. I have purchased an electronic entry system an I plan to use a "maglock" to hold the gate shut. That side of it is fine, proven and I'm happy with it. My problem is what to make the gate of. I need a brand new gate and economy (alright cheapness!) is a key factor. The gate should be around 6' tall and solid from top to bottom. I should like to make it out of steel, but I am concerend about the cost. If I use steel, should I use mild steel plate, what thickness, will it need bracing. Are there any other cheaper materials out there - could I hack up a garage door - how about steel roofing panels. Or should I make a wooden gate up out of T&G panels?
Any thought from others who have done this out there?
Cheers
Peter