Fully Welded Aluminium Gates in Southampton, Hampshire

Client Requirements

Larkwood’s owner was keen to make improvements to its exterior and access arrangements. The existing entrance lacked structure and definition, and the client wanted to upgrade it in a way that improved functionality while elevating the property’s kerb appeal. He also wanted guidance and advice on the options available, in order to be able to make informed decisions about aesthetics how the gate works.

Project Scope

This project was a new installation at a private home in Hampshire, involving both structural groundwork and the fabrication of custom, fully welded aluminium gates. One of the defining characteristics of the system was the raked base of the gate, designed specifically to follow the fall of the road. Many gates are built square along the bottom edge, but this can cause clearance issues on sloped driveways. By engineering the gate to follow the gradient, Fraser Gates ensured a smooth swing operation without compromising visual symmetry.

Gravel Grid Integration

To support the raked design of the fully welded aluminium gates, gravel grids were installed beneath the driveway surface. These grids prevent gravel migration—a very common problem where cars repeatedly displace material and create ridges, dips and “hollow spots.” Without this stabilisation, gravel can accumulate under the arc of the gate, affecting swing clearance and disrupting the gate’s movement. The gravel grids provided:

• A stable, load-bearing foundation
• A consistent gradient matching the raked gate edge
• Prevention of gravel displacement
• A clean, uniform finish to the driveway

This key preparatory step ensured the fully welded aluminium gates’ optimal long-term performance.

Pedestrian Gate with Post Box and Access Control

The pedestrian gate was designed to match the fully welded aluminium gates, both stylistically and structurally. Built with the same fully welded aluminium profile, it featured an integrated post box that was neatly incorporated to avoid the need for wall-mounted accessories or standalone boxes. This created a streamlined look while also improving the homeowner’s day-to-day privacy and convenience.

The pedestrian entrance was connected to a GSM intercom system. Unlike fixed-line or WiFi-only systems, GSM provides exceptional reliability and coverage, acting effectively as a dedicated mobile phone for the gate. Features include:

• Personalised access codes
• Time-specific latch settings
• Remote access from anywhere via phone
• Ability for visitors to call the homeowner directly

This system gave the client maximum flexibility, allowing them to control both the driveway gate and pedestrian gate from a single interface.

Challenges and Problem Solving

Matching the Gate to the Road’s Falling Gradient

The primary challenge was determining the precise degree of fall from one side of the driveway to the other. The slope needed to be measured with absolute accuracy because the gate’s raked bottom would mirror this gradient. If the angle were even slightly off, it could cause:

• Excessive clearance on one side
• Insufficient clearance on the other
• A visually uneven appearance
• Swing interference

To ensure precision, measurement tools were used to establish the exact gradient. The gate was then fabricated to match the fall perfectly.

Achieving Perfect Post Alignment

Once the raked gate arrived on site, achieving exact post alignment was critical. Even the most precise gate fabrication can be compromised by installation inaccuracies. Fraser Gates used M20 threaded rods combined with adjustable nuts, allowing micro-adjustments in all directions. This made it possible to set the posts perfectly level and plumb before the concrete set.

This technique:

• Ensured ultra-accurate gate geometry
• Enabled fine control over hinge alignment
• Guaranteed smooth, effortless operation
• Maximised motor efficiency and longevity

The end result was a flawless fit that looked purpose-built for the property.

Custom and Bespoke Elements

One of the standout aspects of the Larkwood installation was the inclusion of a laser-etched house sign plate on one of the gate leaves, which perfectly matches the clean, crisp design language of the gates. This personalised aluminium panel was etched with remarkable precision and then finished in a crisp white paint to create a high-contrast, eye-catching finish.

Rather than relying on stick-on lettering or external signage, the integrated plate provided a durable and visually cohesive solution. Its integration into the structure of the fully welded aluminium gates looked and felt purpose-built rather than simply added on. It also draws attention and offers enhanced visibility for visitors without overwhelming the overall design.

Beyond the signage, considerable care went into tailoring the gate frame itself. Fraser Gates worked closely with the client throughout the design phase to refine proportions, framing details and infill layout so the final product reflected both the homeowner’s tastes and the practical demands of the site. The end result was a carefully balanced combination of aesthetics and engineering, delivering a bespoke entrance that enhanced the character of the property while offering long-term durability and a refined finish.