Driveway Gate Installation in Savannah, GA
A driveway gate is the first thing visitors see when they arrive at your property — and it’s the last line of defense between the street and your home. Savannah Gate and Fence installs custom driveway gates for residential and commercial properties throughout Savannah, Pooler, Rincon, Richmond Hill, and surrounding areas. From simple manual swing gates to fully automated slide gates with smartphone access, we build and install driveway gates that match your property’s style and your security needs.
Swing Driveway Gates
Swing gates are the most popular driveway gate style in the Savannah area. They open inward or outward on heavy-duty hinges mounted to steel or brick posts. Single swing gates cover driveways up to about 16 feet wide, while dual swing (bi-parting) configurations handle wider openings — common in estate properties around Richmond Hill, Isle of Hope, and Skidaway Island.
Swing gates require adequate setback space to open fully. If your driveway slopes upward from the street, the gate needs to swing outward or be designed with ground clearance to accommodate the grade change. Our installation team surveys your driveway before recommending a swing gate to ensure proper clearance and operation.
Sliding Driveway Gates
Slide gates are the practical choice when driveway setback is limited, the driveway slopes steeply, or the opening exceeds 20 feet. The gate slides laterally along a track or cantilever rail parallel to the fence line. Track-mounted systems ride on a steel rail set in concrete at the driveway surface. Cantilever systems suspend the gate above the ground on rollers — a better choice for Savannah where sandy soil and heavy rain can cause ground-mounted tracks to shift or collect debris.
Slide gates are common for commercial properties, apartment complexes, and gated communities throughout Chatham County. They’re also a smart choice for residential properties where a swing gate simply won’t fit.
Driveway Gate Materials
Ornamental Iron Gates
Iron gates are the classic choice for Savannah properties. They pair naturally with the city’s historic architecture and provide serious security. Available in hundreds of decorative styles — from simple picket to elaborate scroll and finial designs — iron gates make a statement. We powder coat all iron gates for weather resistance, which is essential in Savannah’s humid coastal climate.
Aluminum Gates
Aluminum gates offer a similar look to iron at lower cost and with zero rust risk. They’re lighter weight, which means smaller gate operators can handle them — reducing automation costs. Aluminum is the best choice for properties near Tybee Island, Thunderbolt, and other coastal locations where salt air exposure is highest.
Wood Gates
Wood driveway gates provide warmth and privacy that metal gates can’t match. Cedar and pressure-treated pine are the most common woods for driveway gates in Savannah. Wood gates can be built in solid privacy, semi-privacy, or open rail styles. They pair well with wood privacy fences for a cohesive look. Wood gates are heavier than aluminum, so automation requires a more robust operator.
Chain Link Gates
Chain link driveway gates are the most economical option and are commonly used for commercial, industrial, and utility applications. Rolling chain link cantilever gates can span very wide openings — 30 feet or more — making them ideal for warehouses, construction sites, and fleet yards around Garden City, Port Wentworth, and Savannah’s industrial corridors.
Gate Automation
Most driveway gates we install include automation. An automatic gate operator opens and closes your gate with the press of a button — from your vehicle, your phone, or a wall-mounted control. We install operators from LiftMaster, DoorKing, Linear, and other leading brands. Every automated gate includes:
- Safety photo-eye sensors to detect vehicles and pedestrians
- Emergency manual release for power outages
- Battery backup option (recommended for Savannah — storms cause power outages)
- Remote control transmitters for your vehicles
For more access control options including keypads, intercoms, smartphone control, and card readers, see our automatic gate installation page.
Security Features
A driveway gate is a security investment. Beyond the physical barrier, we can integrate:
- Video intercom — See and talk to visitors before opening the gate
- Security cameras — Record gate activity 24/7
- Timed access — Set gates to lock automatically at specific hours
- Anti-tailgating — Commercial systems that close quickly between vehicles
- License plate recognition — Automatic entry for authorized vehicles
Custom Gate Design
Your driveway gate should reflect your property’s character. We work with fabricators to create custom gate designs including:
- Arched and flat-top profiles
- Custom scrollwork and decorative elements
- Address numbers or monograms welded into the design
- Brick or stone column integration
- Matching pedestrian walk-through gates
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a driveway gate cost in Savannah?
Driveway gate costs vary widely based on material, size, and automation. A basic manual chain link gate starts around $500-$1,000. A standard automatic aluminum or iron swing gate runs $3,000-$6,000 installed. Custom estate gates with full automation and access control can range from $7,000 to $15,000+. We provide free estimates for accurate pricing.
Do I need a permit for a driveway gate in Savannah?
In most cases, yes — especially for automated gates that include electrical work. Requirements vary by location within Chatham County. Properties in historic districts may need additional approval. We handle the permitting process for all our installations.
How wide should a driveway gate be?
Standard single driveway gates are 10-12 feet wide. Double gates (bi-parting) typically span 14-20 feet total. The gate should be wide enough for your largest vehicle to pass through comfortably. We measure during your free estimate and recommend the appropriate width.
Can I add automation to an existing manual gate?
Usually yes, provided the gate is structurally sound and the posts can support an operator. We assess existing gates for retrofit suitability during a free on-site visit. In some cases, minor modifications to the gate or posts are needed to accommodate the operator.
How long does driveway gate installation take?
A manual gate installation typically takes 1-2 days. Automated gate installations with access control take 2-3 days. Custom fabricated gates may require additional lead time for manufacturing before installation.
Get a Free Driveway Gate Estimate
Enhance your property’s security and curb appeal with a custom driveway gate from Savannah Gate and Fence. Call (912) 800-0818 or request a free estimate online. We serve Savannah, Pooler, Rincon, Richmond Hill, and all surrounding communities.
Explore our full range of fence and gate services including residential fencing, commercial fencing, and gate access control.
Want to automate your driveway gate? Learn about our automatic gate installation options. For a classic look, explore our wrought iron fence and gate services. Complete your property with a privacy fence or pool fence.