CRAFTSMANSHIP KEY AT GATECRAFT

Chelmsford-based Gatecraft Gates has been manufacturing bespoke hardwood gates since Bob started the company back in 1980.

Bob explained:

“All of our hardwood is purchased after inspection by one of our team. It is kiln-dried at the supplier and then offloaded at our works, where it is placed ‘in stick’ in open sheds to season further. We aim for a moisture content of 18% before we use it to manufacture gates. This process can take a few months, and it also allows us to identify any boards that may have moved, ensuring that only the most stable materials progress to the manufacturing stage.

“If the project is particularly challenging—such as a tall gate within a sun trap courtyard where summer temperatures might become extreme—we laminate the frame to provide a very stable product. We typically use sapele, iroko, or prime selected oak. I believe Gatecraft is unique in offering this.”

Gatecraft also provides a CAD design service, which offers clients a professional way to present the product to the end user.

Bob continued:

“Once we receive your dimensions, we create a design that goes into production after being signed off by the customer or contractor. This clarifies the job for all parties and greatly reduces any misunderstandings further down the line.

“We have the capability to build substantial posts with a hollow core that allows cabling and services to run up the middle, creating a neat finish. A removable finial provides access when needed.

“We have also designed and built a patent-pending hinge that uses sealed bearings built into the top of the hanging stile. This hinge can be adjusted on all planes, so if necessary, the gates can be lifted or moved to achieve a perfect closing, using just an allen key.

“This design eliminates the need for a safety edge on the hanging stile, reducing time and labour. The bearings allow for the absolute minimum ease of opening and closing, reducing wear and tear on the motors.”

Bob added:

“Our standard softwood FL, braced F/Edge, and TGV gates are made from Scandinavian redwood, a slow-grown timber. The stiles and top rails are cut from 2ex w50x200mm, which reduces twisting and results in a very high-quality, competitively priced gate.”