Which Driveway Gate is better built?
I’m looking for a 14ft aluminum Driveway (Estate) Gate. I found two manufacturers that have designes I like. The pricing is about the same. This is a swing gate.
First choice: http://www.ameristarfence.com/residential-ornamental-wrought-iron-steel-driveway-entrance-gates-estate
material: 6063-T6
Pickets: 3/4″ square, 0.125″ thick
Channel Rails: 1″x2″, 0.250″ thick
Ends & Intermediates: 2″ square, 0.250″ thick
Second Choice: http://www.gatecrafters.com/driveway-gate-aluminum.aspx
material: 6061-T6
Pickets: 3/4″ square, 0.090″ thick
Channel Rails: 1-1/2″ x 3/4″, 0.125″ thick
Ends/Internediates: 2″ square, 0.125″ thick
So choice #1 uses “weaker” aluminum but uses thicker material, and choice #2 uses a stronger alumimium but thinner material.
Which is better?
Replies
How the (bleep) Would I Know?
I suspect the details of the actual install matter far more than any single component of the design.
Just as important, the arrangement of the pieces, and the connections between, are critical to the design.
Finally, we have no way of knowing what exact alloys and processes were used.
Unless you need to weld to the gate using anything other than TIG, go with the 6063.
10% less yield strength, but the heavier thickness, esp the ends, more than compensates for that.
Cost differential - 6063 probably costs more as is significantly heavier ? Or is the material weight lost in the markup and fab costs?
Assume the gate posts are substantial enough for either weight.
Both are likely anodized? So minimal difference in corrosion over time.