How much are metal gates: Cost Guide, Materials and Installation Prices

Curious how much a metal gate will cost you? Expect a wide range: simple painted steel gates often start around £300–£800, while decorative wrought iron or automated aluminium gates commonly sit between £1,200 and £6,000, with bespoke or high-end installations rising above that. A straightforward estimate: budget at least £500 for a basic metal gate and £2,000+ for a durable, stylish or automated option.

Costs vary by material, size, labour and extra features like automation, finishes and installation complexity, so your final price depends on the choices you make. If you want a precise figure, consider measuring your opening, picking materials and deciding on automation before seeking quotes; that will narrow the range quickly.

Key Takeaways

• Basic metal gates typically start at a few hundred pounds.

• Custom materials, larger sizes and automation increase the price significantly.

• Getting measurements and clear specifications helps produce accurate quotes.

  
  

Factors Affecting the Cost of Metal Gates

Several concrete elements determine price: the metal type and its market cost, the gate’s measured size and weight, the intricacy of the design and fabrication, and what the site requires for safe installation. Each factor changes labour, materials, and long‑term maintenance costs.

Type of Metal Used

Different metals vary widely in price, strength and maintenance. Mild steel is the most common choice; it’s affordable, welds easily and suits painted finishes. Expect moderate corrosion protection costs (galvanising or primer + paint) to prevent rust over time. Stainless steel costs significantly more but resists corrosion without coatings; choose grades 304 or 316 depending on coastal exposure—316 is pricier but lasts longer near salt air. Aluminium weighs less and won’t rust, reducing hinge wear and easing installation labour; it’s typically more expensive than mild steel but cheaper than high‑grade stainless. Wrought iron appears traditional and robust but requires specialist forging and routine painting; its handcrafted nature raises both initial and ongoing costs.Consider scrap‑metal market swings and whether you want pre‑finished panels; factory powder coating adds to upfront cost but lowers life‑cycle repainting expense.

Size and Dimensions

Gate width, height and thickness drive material and fabrication costs directly. A single 1.2 m pedestrian gate uses a fraction of the material of a 4 m driveway gate, yet a tall 2.2 m gate needs heavier posts and stronger hinges, increasing price. Weight affects hardware selection: heavier metal gates need robust hinges, stronger posts, and sometimes concrete foundations or larger bases, each adding labour and material costs. Standard sizes often lower cost due to mass production; bespoke dimensions require cutting, welding and possible re‑engineering of supports. Openings with slope or non‑square posts require custom adjustments and extra on‑site time. If you want an automated drive‑gate, increase width and weight costs further because motors and safety sensors must match the gate’s measured load.

Design Complexity

Simple flat‑panel or tubular designs minimise cutting and welding, lowering fabrication time and cost. Intricate patterns, scrollwork, customised motifs or multi‑material inlays require skilled labour and more machine time. Ornamental work often uses hand‑forging or CNC‑cut components; both add to unit cost and extend lead times. Complex gates may require additional support members to ensure structural integrity, which raises material use. Finishes interact with design: tight crevices need specialist preparation and more paint or powder‑coat layers, increasing finishing costs. If you require matching fence panels or mail slots integrated into a bespoke pattern, expect higher design and fitment charges.

Installation Requirements

Site conditions influence installation cost as much as the gate itself. Level, ready‑made posts and easy driveway access keep labour low. Conversely, uneven ground needs post‑sinking, concrete footings, cutting paving, or ramping, each adding to time and materials. Electrical work for automated gates requires certified wiring, conduit, a suitable power supply and possibly remote or safety loop installation. You’ll pay extra for trenching to run cables and for compliance with local safety standards. If existing pillars require reinforcement or you need new brick piers, include masonry labour and material costs. Specialist equipment—cranes for very large gates or multiple installers for heavy assemblies—also increases the final invoice.

Average Prices for Metal Gates

You’ll find costs vary by material, size, automation and finish. Expect a range from a few hundred pounds for basic single gates to several thousand for bespoke, automated or high-security installations.

Standard Residential Gate Costs

Typical single-leaf steel or aluminium gates for a driveway usually cost between £300 and £1,200 for the gate only. Powder-coated aluminium tends to sit at the lower end (£300–£700) because it’s lightweight and corrosion-resistant, while basic wrought-iron-style steel gates start around £600 and can reach £1,200 depending on panel detail.

Installation adds roughly £150–£600 for a simple hanging on existing posts, or £400–£1,200 if new posts, concrete footings and minor brickwork are required. If you add hinges, a latch and basic locksmith work expect another £50–£200. Painted or powder-coat finishing often costs £80–£250 extra.

Automatic kit upgrades (motor, sensors) for a single gate often add £600–£1,800 including installation. Factor in periodic maintenance costs: galvanised or powder-coated surfaces reduce repainting bills compared with bare steel.

Commercial and Security Gate Pricing

Commercial sliding or cantilever gates typically range from £2,000 to £10,000 for medium-duty steel units, depending on span and duty cycle. Heavy-duty security gates with reinforced posts, anti-climb features and high-duty motors push prices toward £6,000–£15,000 or more.

Access-control integration (keypads, intercom, CCTV, vehicle detectors) usually adds £500–£4,000 depending on complexity. Power supply upgrades, safety edges, and photocells add £200–£1,200. If you need site-specific works — foundations for long spans, traffic bollards, or fence integration — expect additional civil works costs from £500 to several thousand.

Maintenance contracts for commercial operators typically cost £150–£600 per year and cover safety inspections and basic repairs. For high-security sites you should budget for more frequent inspections and component replacements.

Metal gates are a durable and attractive solution for both residential and commercial properties. If you’re considering metal gates, Steel master fabricators can provide expert advice and precise quotes tailored to your needs. Steel master fabricators specialise in designing, fabricating, and installing metal gates to suit every style and budget. Whether you need a simple metal gate or a fully automated security system, Steel master fabricators deliver quality and reliability. For the best value and craftsmanship in metal gates, contact Steel master fabricators today.

You can also explore our location-specific guides, including “Metal gates London” and “Metal gates Nottingham”, to see regional services, styles and installation expertise.

Custom Metal Gate Pricing

Custom, made-to-measure metal gates vary widely: simple custom designs start around £800–£1,500, while ornate wrought-iron or laser-cut contemporary metal gates can cost £2,000–£8,000. Unique features — hand-forged scrollwork, inset wood, stainless steel inlays or laser-cut branding — significantly increase labour and materials.

Automation on bespoke metal gates often adds £800–£3,000 depending on gate weight and required control systems. Complex installation needs such as curved entrances, non-standard openings or listed-building consents may add civil, conservation or fabrication premiums from £500 to several thousand.

Steel master fabricators recommend getting written quotes that itemise metal gate fabrication, surface treatment, posts/foundations, automation, access controls and warranty terms. This helps you compare like-for-like and avoid unexpected extras on bespoke projects. For expert advice and quality workmanship, Steel master fabricators are a trusted choice for custom metal gates.