Yard gates are often installed for ornamental reasons, but many are used for the practical purpose of keeping a home safe, private, and secure. These gates can be both aesthetically pleasing and functional, when built with such materials as wrought iron and solid cedar. Some yard gates are quite large, evoking images of times gone by with arched entryways that lead into private gardens or courtyards. Of course, there is always the traditional white picket style gate that has remained popular over the years. For security reasons, a driveway gate will usually operate via an electronic system that keeps intruders out and offers privacy within the grounds.
Unusual yard gates call attention to an entryway. Some of these gates are hand crafted, like the one-of-a-kind longhorn steer gate with wrought iron bulls-horn handles. Some gates have intricate wooden carvings, featuring entire scenes from fairy tales or folk lore. Yard gates can be gothic style with grand entryways attached to high brick walls that surround the entire estate. Some of these gates may be carved with the family name or emblem.
A driveway gate may be quite a distance from the home and electronically operated to ensure home safety. This kind of gate might have an intercom system to screen visitors and a security camera for added protection. These gates can be made from many materials, including wood, wrought iron, and steel with single or double doors. Since the driveway gate is often the first impression visitors have, many homeowners install gates with a striking design. A gate might be made out of forged copper featuring a giant eagle in flight, or it might feature a colorful totem pole constructed out of wood .
Side yard gates can add a finishing touch to an outdoor area with trellises for climbing plants. These can be wooden swinging gates with antique-style hinges or brick archways that lead into a private garden. A garden gate may be a white picket fence style that showcases fruits and vegetables while it protects plants from unwanted pests. Depending on what type of fence it is attached to, the gate can be a simple unfinished wooden gate or a handcrafted steel gate, featuring bronze flowers attached to shaved log pillars. A garden gate made from distressed cedar with copper hinges may function as a natural looking backdrop for colorful flowers or vegetables that bloom there.