Driveway Gates in Burnley — Fitted in a Day

I was over in Burnley last Tuesday, sorting out a set of gates for Dave over on the hills. It was tipping it down—standard Lancashire weather, honestly—but that’s exactly why I use the timber I do. If you’re getting driveway gates round here, you’ve got to account for the rain. If the wood isn’t treated right, or if the posts aren’t sunk deep enough in that heavy clay soil, you’ll be calling me back in six months to fix a sag. And nobody wants that.

Does the weather really ruin wooden gates?

People always ask me if wood stands up to the Burnley rain. It does, provided you don't skimp on the prep. I use pressure-treated softwood or top notch hardwood, but the secret is in the hardware and the frame. I see so many gates that rot from the bottom up because they’re sat right on the damp ground. We always use a proper concrete footing and make sure there’s a gap at the bottom so the wind doesn't act like a sail. If you seal the end grain properly, those gates won't warp or twist when the weather turns. I’ve been doing this for ten years now, and I’ve learned the hard way that if you cut corners, the Lancashire damp will find them every time.

Will it take weeks to get them fitted?

Most folks think having new driveway gates put in is a massive, week-long job that turns their front garden into a building site. That’s rarely the case. With Dave’s job, we were in and out in a day. We turned up at 8am, got the old ones out, prepped the ground, hung the new gates, and had the ironmongery spot on before the tea break. It’s all about measuring twice and getting the posts plumb. If you’ve got the right tools in the van, you shouldn't be messing about for days. It’s not rocket science, but you’d be surprised how many people get it wrong by rushing the levels. When we leave, the latch hits the stop perfect every time, no sticking, no dragging, just a solid, proper job done.

I know what it’s like trying to find a tradesman you can trust. I’ve heard all the horror stories about gates that drop after a month or hinges that rust out before the year is up. That’s why I do the work myself. I’d rather spend an extra hour getting the adjustment right on the hinges than leave a customer with a gate that doesn't close smooth. It’s about keeping your place secure and making sure it looks right from the road. If you’re in Burnley and thinking about driveway gates, give me a bell on 07939 945662 or drop us a message. We’ll come out, have a look, and give you an honest price—no pressure, no sales patter. You can also request a free quote on our website if that’s easier for you. I’m always happy to have a chat about what’ll work best for your driveway.