At Trade Gates Direct, we offer a wide range of gates including swing gates, sliding gates, and side  gates, available in materials such as steel, aluminium, and composite wood-effect panels. We also supply made-to-measure options for custom installations.

Our core ranges are made from aluminium and steel, and our soon-to-be-released timber infill gates. These are a steel frame with irokop infills.

Yes, 100%. We have added lots of options in our gate builder for on-the-spot quotes. If it’s something you can’t see anywhere on the site, we can design you a fully bespoke option.

We take huge pride in the fact that our gates are made in the UK. We build everything in our two Midlands-based workshops.

This means that, unlike many of the off-the-shelf gates our competitors sell, we can make alterations and maintain a large stock of spare parts.

The automation we sell is all the same systems our installation company uses. We know it works and we know it’s reliable, so we thought we would offer it to you guys.

Yes, we have a range of how-to guides as well as a growing number of videos. What’s more if you’re stuck, we offer completely free video consultations where you can video call one of our experts and get help on any fidly issues completely free of charge.

Yes. Most of our gates can be custom-built to your exact measurements. Simply use our online gate builder or get in touch with our team to discuss your requirements.

In most cases, you won’t need planning permission for residential gates under 2 metres tall. However, if your gate fronts a highway or exceeds certain height limits, permission may be required. We recommend checking with your local council or asking us for guidance.

A large part of this is down to your gate. A solid gate is much more prone to the wind than a wrought iron style gate.

We would always caution common sense. If its windy and your gate is manual be careful. If you are worried about it catching the wind, leave it. You have to bear in mind a solid gate is like a big sail and chances are it will pull much harder than you expect.

We would always recommend anything over 20 mph you either open the gate or leave it closed.

We seem to not get much these days but in the event we do follow the steps below.

Automated Gates

Check for ice build up on or around the motors. If you see any pour warm water to melt it.

Check the photocells for ice cover and melt as above. If you have safety edges give them a good wipe down with a warm cloth.

Finally check the hinges. If you have been greasing and it gets really cold the grease can freeze. Put the gate in manual and open and close to ensure its free from ice.

Manual Gates

Check the hinges fro ice and if its jammed pour warm water.

Check the lock and open and close it to free it off. Pour warm water to get any frozen locks moving.

With tracked sliding gates, it’s very important you keep the track free from stones, rubble and basically anything that can cause it to be derailed.

Once a week, sweep down the track and move any stones as soon as you see them.

We supply a full range of motors for swing gates, sliding gates, and underground systems. Brands include BFT, Nice, CAME.

This depends on the type, size, weight, and frequency of use of your gate. Use our Motor Kit Selector Tool or contact our experts with your gate measurements and we’ll recommend the best fit.

In many cases, yes. Provided your gate is in good condition and structurally sound, we can recommend a motor kit that suits your current setup.

Yes, all our kits include the motor(s), control panel, remote fobs, mounting brackets, and safety photocells. Some kits also come with flashing lights and keypads, depending on the model.

As with manual gates its all about common sense. In our installation business we tell customers to open their gates in the wind and leave them open. The wind has a huge effect on the motors and can make the gate much heavier to push. This puts extra strain on your motors and reduces their working life.

Most manufacturers have a recommended wind speed so double check and listen to what the experts say.

Many of our kits are DIY-friendly, especially if you have basic tools and electrical experience. For more advanced installations (like underground motors or commercial GSM systems), we recommend using a qualified installer.

We don’t offer installation directly, but we work with a nationwide network of trusted installers and can recommend someone in your area.

Yes. We provide free lifetime technical support for all products purchased through Trade Gates Direct. Our team is available via phone, email, and live chat.

Most standard gates are dispatched within 28 days. Custom gates and made-to-order items have varying lead times, which are clearly stated on each product page.

Yes. You’ll receive a tracking link once your order has shipped. For large items like gates, we’ll also contact you to arrange a suitable delivery day.

We deliver across the UK. If you’re outside mainland UK or need international shipping, please get in touch for a custom quote.

Yes. We sell a wide range of replacement and additional remotes compatible with all major brands, including Nice, FAAC, CAME, BFT, and Trade Gates Direct branded systems.

Most remotes can be paired in just a few steps using your motor’s control panel or an existing fob. Each product comes with easy-to-follow instructions, and we offer free technical support if you need help.

In most cases, yes. Gate remotes must be compatible with your control board’s frequency and coding system (e.g., rolling code, fixed code). If you’re unsure, just contact us—we’ll make sure you get the right one.

Universal remotes work with some systems, but not all. We stock a few multi-frequency models that work across different brands—get in touch and we’ll confirm compatibility.

Side-hung gates are best if you have existing hinges or if you have any obstructions that would prevent the gate from opening if rear-hung.

*This is typically seen with pedestrian gates or gates where the post is attached to a building or wall.

Rear hung is best if you want to maximise privacy. There is a much-reduced gap on the sides when rear hanging. It’s also the better option if you want the gates to open wider, as they will open further back.

* This is typically seen on driveway gates or gates with a wider opening that is needed

Photocells are infrared safety sensors that prevent your gate from closing on people, vehicles, or obstacles. They’re a legal requirement on all automatic gate installations and help protect your family, pets, and visitors.

A beam is sent between a transmitter and receiver across the gate entrance. If the beam is broken while the gate is closing, the system stops and reverses the movement.

Absolutely. Most motor control boards have terminals to support photocell wiring. If you’re unsure how to wire them in, we’re happy to help.

Yes, we offer both wired and wireless options. Wireless photocells are great for retrofitting or tricky installations where cable routing is difficult.

This varies by model, but most of our photocells work reliably up to 10 metres apart. Check the product spec or contact us to find the right pair for your setup.