Arched Gate or Straight Top?

I love an arched top on a gate. There are so many different arch designs; half moon arch, gently sloping arch and an elaborate arch.  Each of these arch designs creates a different look. Having an arched top in your design will add a little extra cost to the project. The labor involved in bending the arch does add to the bottom line but it may be nominal so don't be afraid to incorporate some type of arch, and then ask for a credit to have a flat top if the price comes in over budget.  The most important aspect is the size steel that you use for your frame. The larger the steel, the more difficult it is to bend. Likewise, if you choose a steel size that isn't square but rather rectangular in shape, then that can cost more because the arch may have to be bent by the steel supplier, off site. Arching a large rectangular piece of steel requires heavy duty equipment and your average iron shop may not be outfitted for it.

A standard size to use for a gate frame is 2" square or less. Take a look through your neighborhood, check out the iron gates, and notice the size of tube steel used. I think you'll see that the size ranges  between 1" square up to 2" square. Any of these sizes make for a sturdy, lovely looking gate.

Most contemporary styles use a straight top rather than arched. The clean lines of a straight top usually complement the lines of a contemporary style home. If you've chosen a straight top design, then you have a few more options when it comes to steel size. Keep in mind that you don't want to make your gate too heavy, which creates another set of problems. If you’re sold on a larger size steel frame, let's say tube steel 3" x 2", a straight top is the time to use it. If you choose this larger size, you really need to use a thicker wall for the tube steel in order to bend this size without it wanting to twist during the process. If you use a thicker wall for the top of the frame, then to compromise and reduce the weight of the gate, you can use the same size steel but in a thinner wall, not a thin wall, just thinner, for the sides and bottom. 

If an arched top is your dream, definitely go for it.  You may have to compromise on the height of the arch, or the curves of the arch, but it’s worth it.  Your home will be framed by something elegant and traditional.  It will definitely enhance the value of your home and satisfy you discerning eye.