In Singapore, the gates at the front of our homes not only serve as a form of security to prevent break-ins but also play a significant role in how visitors perceive our homes. Although some may believe that a clean and sturdy gate is all that is required, other homeowners may want their gates to look nice in order to impress their visitors and passers-by.
Whether you want to replace your landed property gate or your HDB gate, this article will provide you with the information you need to select the best gate for your property.
Types of Gates
Wrought iron gates and mild steel gates are the two most common types of gate materials in Singapore, with mild steel gates being the most commonly used type for HDB gates and condominium gates 90% of the time.
1. Wrought Iron Gate
Wrought iron is an iron alloy with lower carbon content. It is a material with many beneficial qualities and it was most commonly used before the advancement of steel.
Wrought iron gates are very durable and long-lasting compared to many other types of gate materials (i.e. vinyl or wood). It is resistant to day-to-day wear and tears when used as condominium or HDB gates, and it can withstand impact and damage from vehicle collisions as a landed property gate.
Some of its qualities include:
- Durability: It is highly resistant to dents, bending and shock damage.
- Corrosion Resistance: Its composition helps to make it more resistant to rust.
- Highly Decorative: It is highly malleable, making it easy to create stylish gate designs.
- Low maintenance: Less susceptible to damage and requires fewer repairs.
- Added Security: Their strength makes it hard to be broken, cut through or torn down.
2. Mild Steel Gate
Mild steel is a type of carbon steel with a low carbon content and a high iron and ferrite content. The combination of materials used to make this low carbon steel gives the metal unique properties that make it a popular steel for a variety of applications; residential gates being one of them.
It is a cost-effective option for those on a tight budget and its high durability makes it well worth the investment. Because of its low carbon content, mild steel can be easily welded into various shapes, giving you a wide range of design options.
Some of its physical properties include:
- Ductile: It can be deformed and shaped without losing its toughness.
- Magnetic: High amounts of iron and ferrite makes it magnetic.
- Highly Customisable: Customise unique designs on your gate.
3. Wooden Mild Steel Gates
Wooden mild steel gates are typically used as landed property gates. It is also a mild steel gate, but it has wooden panels for aesthetic purposes, which are typically made of Chengal. Although Chengal is more expensive, it is one of the most durable woods and is ideal for driveway gates.
What Are They Suitable For?
Both mild steel and wrought iron gates are suitable for all types of residential properties, from HDB gates to landed property gates. Not only can you customise the design of your gate, but you can also customise the size of your gate to fit your driveway if you own a landed property.
Both materials are weather-resistant, able to withstand extreme conditions, and long-lasting, so you won't have to replace damaged gates every few years.
For HDB gates, wooden mild steel gates are rarely used. They are more commonly found in front of landed properties and add visual appeal to driveways.
When it comes to selecting the type of gate you want for your home, both mild steel and wrought iron gates offer essentially similar qualities. If you are unsure which type of gate will best suit your HDB, condo, or landed property, contact us!
Liminal offers a wide range of gates, doors, and digital door locks to homeowners in order to help them create stylish spaces while also keeping their families safe. Contact us today for more information.
