Choosing a gate for a summer cottage is a challenge every homeowner faces. Gates should not only be easy to use, but also durable, reliable, and appropriate for the style of the property and its operating conditions. DoorHan offers outdoor swing and sliding gates. But which solution is best for a summer cottage? Let's find out.
Design and operating principle
- Sliding gates move sideways along the fence along a guide beam. A roller system is installed for this purpose, and the gate itself slides to the side, clearing the driveway. This design requires no space in front of the driveway and operates smoothly even with large openings.
- The classic option consists of two hinged doors that open outward or inward. This is the most common type of gate for most users, as it's easy to install and maintain.
Ease of use
Sliding gates:
- do not take up space in front of the entrance – convenient for small areas;
- easy to automate, one drive is enough;
- do not interfere with entry even in strong winds; o allow vehicles of any height to pass.
Swing gates:
- require free space to open the sashes;
- In winter, the area needs to be cleared of snow, otherwise the doors will not open;
- automation is installed on each sash, which is a little more expensive;
- In windy weather, the sashes may swing and put stress on the hinges.
Conclusion: in terms of ease of everyday use, DoorHan sliding gates are significantly more practical.
Reliability and durability
• Sliding doors are highly durable and designed for frequent use. The roller carriages and guides are made of durable steel coated with an anti-corrosion compound. This design lasts for more than 15-20 years when properly installed. • Swing doors are also considered a reliable option, but the hinges wear out over time, the doors can sag, and rust appears more quickly at the joints. Service life depends on regular maintenance and the quality of the paint.
Conclusion: Both designs are durable, but sliding gates require less maintenance.
Thermal insulation and air tightness
Since we're talking about exterior gates, thermal insulation plays a lesser role here than in garage solutions. However, airtightness and protection from precipitation are still important.
- Sliding doors close the opening tightly and can be equipped with a brush or rubber seal along the bottom edge to prevent dirt from getting in.
- Swing-out doors often leave small gaps at the joints between the sashes, which affects protection from snow and dust.
Design and aesthetics
Both DoorHan designs are made of durable steel and can be painted according to the RAL color palette. Options with wood-effect laminate, decorative inserts, and forged elements are also available.
- Sliding doors often look modern and laconic, especially in minimalist projects.
- Swing doors can look organic in classic country houses, where traditional aesthetics are important.
Price and installation
- Swing doors are a more affordable solution. They're less expensive and easier to install, as they don't require a foundation for the roller system. This makes them popular for cottages on a budget.
- Sliding doors are more expensive due to their complex design and the need for foundation preparation (concreting, installing roller carriages and guides). However, the cost is offset by convenience and durability.
Bottom line: what's best for a summer house?
DoorHan sliding gates are a modern, convenient, and durable solution, ideal for areas with limited space or year-round use. They are more expensive, but significantly easier to operate and more resistant to external conditions.
DoorHan swing gates are a practical and affordable option that has stood the test of time. If you need a gate for a seasonal cottage and won't use it often, and your budget is limited, this is a smart choice.
Thus, the choice depends on your goals: convenience and modernity are for sliding gates, simplicity and cost-effectiveness are for swing gates.