Bi-Parting or Single Swing Driveway Gates

Two driveway gates of the same total width can behave very differently, because one leaf swinging the whole opening needs twice the arc of a pair that meets in the middle. On a Carlsbad, CA driveway the choice between a single swing gate and a dual swing pair comes down to space, grade and wind, as the notes at carlsbad driveway gates portland chinese garden describe.

Single swing

A single leaf hangs from one post and sweeps the full opening. It needs one operator and one hinge post, so there is less hardware. The leaf is long and heavy, though, and its arc reaches far into the driveway. On a short drive the swinging leaf can hit a parked car.

Bi-parting pairs

A dual swing gate splits the opening into two leaves that meet in the middle. Each leaf is shorter and lighter, the arc is half as deep and the gate opens faster. It needs two hinge posts, two operators or a linked pair, and a center stop.

Grade

Driveways in hillside parts of La Costa and Rancho Santa Fe often rise from the street. A swing gate that opens uphill hits the pavement. Short leaves clear more easily, and some gates open outward toward the street where local rules and space allow it.

Wind

A solid privacy leaf acts like a sail. During Santa Ana winds a long single leaf pushes hard against its operator and hinges. Two shorter leaves spread that load, and an open picket design lets air pass.

Material and weight

Steel leaves are strong and heavy. Aluminum frames are lighter and do not rust, which suits salt air near Agua Hedionda Lagoon. A lighter leaf puts less load on the operator and posts, whichever layout is chosen.