Do fence gates open one way or another? Which should it be for you?
If you are installing a new fence gate, you likely need a gate to access your backyard from the side of your house. You must ask this question: Should a fence gate open in or out? There are plenty of reasons that a gate opens inward, but in some cases, it is outward. Stay tuned to see what option works best for your yard!
Why a Gate Should Open Inward
Most fence gates open inward for similar reasons to why your front door and interior doors open inward. When entering an interior, it is a smoother transition between the outside and inside when you open the door inwards, the same direction you are traveling.
If your property is close to public property, then it is safer to have the gate open inward so that it does not impede public traffic or open beyond your property border. In these cases, it is likely illegal to install your fence gate this way. The same applies to a driveway gate.
Do you have pet dogs that you let run around in the backyard? If you are entering the backyard while your dogs are loose, you can better control their access out when the gate opens inward.
A gate that opens inward also improves your curb appeal. It hides the hinges, giving your gate a more seamless look with the fence.
Why a Gate Should Open Outward
There are a few scenarios in which it is better for a gate to open outward. If you live in an area with high winds that typically blow in one direction, your fence gate will withstand it better if it opens opposite the wind’s direction.
If your backyard gate opens onto a rising slope, then it may be impossible to have it open inward. Be sure that your fence still keeps within the local laws when it opens outward.
Is your backyard very small? Having it open outward will help create more functional space within your yard.
Alternatives
If you do not find either option workable, you can opt for sliding fence gates. If they are wide enough, then you could also consider bi-folding gates. Mid-Atlantic Deck & Fence is happy to help you look at your options in Maryland.
Call Mid-Atlantic Deck & Fence For Your New Deck or Fence!
Mid-Atlantic Deck & Fence has almost 30 years of experience in building beautiful custom fences, gazebos, screened-in porches, and decks throughout the state of Maryland. We have the expertise to design your dream fence or custom deck and have it installed in a headache-free process. Give us a call at 1-800-833-9310 or visit us online for a quote today! We offer many different styles of fencing and decking, in addition to custom options designed specifically to suit your preferences and tastes. To see examples of our work and get more tips on how to choose the right decking for your family, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Houzz, Pinterest, YouTube, and LinkedIn.
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