Step by step guide to measuring your manual swing gates

1. Get ready and check your opening

Start here

Before you measure, make sure you understand exactly where the gate will sit.

• Grab a tape measure, notepad, and pen.
  
• Stand facing the driveway from the road and decide where the gate line will be.
  
• Note whether the gate will hang between existing walls/posts or if you’ll need new posts.

2. Measure the driveway width

You need the true opening size where the gate will swing.

• Measure between the inside faces of the walls/posts where the gate will close.
  
• Take three measurements: at the top, middle, and bottom of the opening.
  
• Write all three down and use the smallest measurement as your official opening width.

3. Allow for gate clearances

Swing gates need a small gap so they can open and close freely.

• For manual swing gates, allow around 10–20mm clearance on each side of the gate.
  
• If you’re adding new posts, remember the posts themselves add to the total footprint.
  
• Example: two 150mm posts add 300mm overall to the outside width.

4. Measure the gate height

Choose a height that looks right and works with your driveway levels.

• Measure from the ground up to your preferred gate height at one side of the opening.
  
• Typical driveway gate heights are 1.2m
  
• Check if the ground is level across the opening—if it slopes, note which side is higher or lower.

5. Check for slopes and ground clearance

Swing gates must clear the ground as they open.

• Stand to the side and look along the driveway to see if it rises or falls where the gate will swing.
  
• If the drive slopes upwards into the property, the gate may need to be hung higher or open outwards (if safe and legal).
  
• Make a note of any high spots or uneven areas that could catch the bottom of the gate.

6. Confirm opening direction and space

Make sure there is enough room for the gate leaves to swing fully open.

• Decide whether the gate will open inwards (most common) or outwards (only where safe and permitted).
  
• Check there is clear space inside the driveway for the full swing of each leaf.
  
• Note any obstacles such as parked cars, walls, steps, trees, or bins.

7. Record final measurements and details

Important

Write everything down clearly so your gate can be made to fit properly.

• Record the final opening width (smallest of the three measurements).
  
• Record the chosen gate height and note any slope or uneven ground.
  
• Note whether you have existing posts or need new posts.
  
• Take a few photos of the entrance from different angles—these are very helpful when discussing your gate.

Measuring for manual swing gates is straightforward when you follow these steps, but if you’re unsure at any stage, Crown Gates can talk you through it or arrange a professional site visit to take accurate measurements for you