Types of Ranch Gates

Pipe

• Galvanized pipe is the most common modern ranch gate. Recognized by its smooth, rounded profile, the pipe gate is almost indestructible. Put two of these gates together and you can span an opening of any size. They are available in almost any length and come complete with hinges. One drawback is that these gates are heavy. Substantial posts are required to support them.

Plank

• Plank gates are also very recognizable. See them adorning expensive horse ranches, their diagonal pattern painted white. They are usually constructed out of rough 6- to 12-inch fir lumber and can be built on-site to the specifications needed to span the opening. Plank gates are relatively light but need good anchoring posts. They can adapt to almost any hinge design. One drawback is that horses tend to nibble on them.

Nylon

• Nylon gates imitate plank gate design but are hollow nylon. They are light and easy to handle, but lack the strength of other gates. They don't need maintenance but damage easily. Usually found on expensive acreages where aesthetics are important, nylon gates are more of a status symbol than a functional gate. If you have livestock, nylon gates won't stop them if they decide to run.

Mesh

• Mesh is an alternative to pipe. It's strong and will last forever. Mesh gates have a pipe frame with a strong, heavy-duty mesh span. They are also relatively light and look attractive. They need little maintenance and can be painted any color. They can also handle rough treatment from livestock and bad weather.

Barbed Wire

• There are probably more old-fashioned barbed wire ranch gates out there than any other. They are built on the spot by ranchers and consist of two wooden poles with a four- or five-strand span of barbed wire between them. They have no hinges and are simply wired to the post on one side. On the other side, they have a large, smooth wire loop that drops over the opposite side. For economy, this is the gate.