Custom Metal Driveway Gates with Vertical Wood Panels: A Modern Solution for Los Angeles Homes

In one of our recent Los Angeles projects, the ProHands Handyman team designed, fabricated, and installed a pair of modern swing driveway gates made from a welded metal frame and vertical wooden panels. These gates now serve as a functional and attractive entrance to a private residential property under a custom carport.

This article covers the full process behind the project—from client request to final installation—including materials used, design considerations, and tips for homeowners who are planning to install new gates.

Initial Request and Site Conditions

The client reached out with a clear request: to replace the existing driveway gates with something more modern, secure, and visually appealing. One of the main goals was to maintain privacy without making the structure feel heavy or overbuilt.

Important design factors included:

• Seamless integration with a custom wood carport overhead

• Achieving a sleek, minimalist look that matches the home's architectural style

After assessing the site, we proposed a custom-made dual swing gate system featuring a steel frame with vertical wooden slats—an elegant and practical combination.

Step-by-Step Process

Each of our gate installations follows a detailed, structured process:

1. Design and 3D Planning

The project began with precise measurements and a discussion of layout, swing direction, and clearance. We provided the client with a digital 3D mockup of the gate structure, showing exactly how it would look once installed.

This allowed us to finalize:

• The overall dimensions of the openings

• The width and swing direction of each gate leaf

Aesthetically, the plan focused on balance and proportion: clean lines, vertical symmetry, and materials that blend with the rest of the property.

2. Fabrication of the Steel Frame

The gates were fabricated using high-quality rectangular steel tubing (typically 2"x2" and 2"x1.5", 11–14 gauge thickness). This material offers long-term strength and rigidity, especially important for large or frequently used driveway gates.

The steel frame underwent:

• Cleaning and preparation

• Anti-corrosion primer application

• Final coating with matte black powder paint to protect against rust, UV exposure, and wear

All welds were sealed, ground, and cleaned to ensure both durability and a smooth appearance.

3. Wood Panel Selection and Treatment

For the slatted panels, we used premium vertical wood boards, typically redwood or cedar, chosen for their excellent resistance to rot, insects, and moisture—especially important in the Southern California climate.

Before installation, every board was:

• Sanded for a clean, smooth finish

• Treated with water-repellent wood oil

• Finished with a transparent or semi-transparent UV-protective sealant

This dual treatment not only enhances the natural grain of the wood but also extends its life expectancy by several years. We recommend reapplying a finish once a year for long-term performance and appearance.

4. On-Site Installation

The installation took place on a slightly sloped concrete driveway, beneath a custom wood-framed carport. The gates were installed with careful attention to alignment and clearance, ensuring smooth daily use.

To ensure proper function and alignment:

• We used heavy-duty adjustable hinges, allowing for easy leveling and future adjustments

• The bottom of the gates was installed with a small clearance from the ground to prevent moisture damage to the wood

We ensured that the swing direction of both gates allowed easy access for vehicles and a balanced appearance from the street.

5. Final Adjustments and Walkthrough

Before completing the project, we performed a detailed inspection:

• Verified gate swing and clearance

• Checked all welds, hardware, and fasteners

• Ensured every wood panel was secure and flush

• Verified smooth operation with minimal effort

We also reviewed maintenance instructions with the client, including how to clean the wood and when to reapply protective coatings.

Technical Specifications

• Gate Type: Dual swing driveway gates

• Total Width: Approximately 10 feet (two 5 ft. leaves)

• Height: Standard 6 feet (customizable)

• Frame Material: Steel tubing (2"x2", 2"x1.5", 11–14 gauge)

• Wood Infill: Vertical redwood or cedar planks

• Metal Finish: Matte black powder-coated

• Wood Finish: Water-sealed + UV-protected

• Installation Surface: Sloped concrete driveway

• Mounting: Anchored to existing wood and concrete structures

Why Choose a Metal-Wood Combination Gate?

The combination of a steel frame and wood infill is a popular choice for modern homeowners in Los Angeles for good reason:

Strength and Security

Steel offers unmatched structural support and can accommodate electronic access systems, locks, or intercoms with ease.

Warmth and Curb Appeal

Wood brings natural beauty and a softer, residential look that metal alone often lacks. It helps the gate feel more integrated with a home's landscape and architectural character.

Customization

From frame thickness to wood type, stain color, and hardware, nearly every component can be tailored to the homeowner's preferences and site conditions.

Low Maintenance

When properly treated and installed, wood panels require minimal upkeep. The steel frame, powder-coated, resists rust and fading for years.

Privacy and Function

Closely spaced vertical panels provide privacy without making the gate feel too enclosed.

Considerations Before Installing Gates

For those considering similar driveway gates, here are a few professional recommendations:

1. Choose Quality Materials

Avoid low-grade wood or thin steel. In the Los Angeles climate, both sun and humidity can quickly degrade inferior materials. Always select redwood, cedar, or treated hardwoods for outdoor applications.

2. Don't Skip Finishing

Make sure all wooden elements are sanded and protected with an oil or UV-resistant finish. Unfinished wood will fade, crack, and absorb moisture.

3. Invest in Structural Integrity

Use heavy-wall tubing for the frame, especially if your gates will see regular use or need to support an automatic opener.

4. Plan for Balance and Function

Balanced dual-leaf gates offer a clean look and are practical for wide vehicle access.

5. Think About Adjustability

Adjustable hinges and bolts allow for future maintenance and ensure the gates remain square and aligned over time.

Built for Los Angeles Weather

Our gates are designed to handle:

• High UV exposure

• Dry summers and wet winters

• Windy conditions (especially in hillside neighborhoods)

This means using only well-treated wood, rust-resistant hardware, and proper clearances to account for seasonal ground movement or humidity changes.

Project Outcome

The finished product is a modern, secure, and visually striking entryway that blends seamlessly with the client's property. With black steel framing and warm vertical wood accents, the gates provide the perfect mix of form and function—enhancing both aesthetics and security.

The integration beneath the carport and precision of installation made this project especially satisfying.

Service Areas

ProHands Handyman proudly serves:

• Glendale

• Burbank

• Pasadena

• Sherman Oaks

• Los Feliz

• North Hollywood

• and other surrounding neighborhoods in Greater Los Angeles

We specialize in:

• Custom driveway gates (metal, wood, composite, PVC)

• Sliding and swing gates (manual or motorized)

• Fence design and installation

• Gate repairs and upgrades

• Full property access solutions

Get a Free Quote

Thinking about upgrading your gates?

We provide:

• On-site consultations

• Fully custom fabrication

• Skilled and professional installation

Let’s design something that’s secure, functional, and beautiful.

Call us today at
📞 818-401-7766
or email
📩 info@prohandshandyman.com
Website
www.prohandshandyman.com

Final Thoughts

A well-built driveway gate should last for decades, enhance your home’s exterior, and offer convenience without compromise.

Whether you're replacing outdated gates or building a new entrance from scratch, ProHands Handyman has the experience, tools, and attention to detail to bring your vision to life.

Let us help you create a gate that works for your lifestyle and reflects your style.