How to choose the upper guiding hardware for a sliding gate installation

To correctly choose the best suited sliding gate upper guide system we must first decide on the design of the sliding gate. The design directly dictates the appropriate hardware for the installation, lets have a look at the different scenarios and the appropriate hardware to suit;.

Scenario 1: Gate is a typical metal frame with vertical or horizontal bars/slats/pickets within the frame of the gate. They do not protrude outside of the frame in any direction.

In this scenario all options are suitable, typically an over the gate bracket with a roller on each side can be used or alternatively independent rollers. If required where the gate is sliding across a gradient an angle can be welded to the back face of the gate and a nylon block can be used to support.

Scenario 2: Gate is a typical metal frame with spears/scrolls or any other design is protruding above the metal frame.

In this scenario two options are suitable, Independent rollers one on the fence post and one on the support post behind the gate OR an angle can be welded to the back face of the gate and a nylon block can be used to support.

Scenario 3: Gate is a typical metal frame with a cladding on the front side running vertically from top to bottom. The cladding can be any type of slat, pickets or colorbond.

In this scenario only one options is suitable an angle must be welded to the back face of the gate and a nylon block can be used to support. The reason for this is rollers cannot be used on an uneven surface as they do not have the flexibility required for in/out actions following the cladding.

There is ONE exception to this rule however, if a plinth board or capping has been used on the top of the gate and has given a flat horizontal surface for a roller to run on an overhead bracket (long bracket option) with rollers or even independent rollers can be used.

Nylon Guide Block on a Support Post with Channel, totally non interference setup without touching the front side of the gate
Independent Rollers, One on each side to support the gate without obstructing the spears above
Typical top rollers and overhead bracket, easy to install and adjustable. Work well providing they roll on a smooth surface
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