Gate Height and Width Guide for Apartment Entrances

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Gate dimensions for an apartment entrance are set by the opening itself, the space the gate needs to swing or slide, and the clearances required for hinges, locks and the frame. Measure the opening at several points, note the ground level and any obstacles, and send these figures with photos so the gate can be drawn to fit.

Why the Opening Matters More Than the Standard Size

Many apartment entrances are not built to a single standard size, so ready-made dimensions rarely fit without adjustment. Every gate we make is designed around the actual opening in your building, not the other way around.

The most important point is that the measurement you take is the one that counts. A wall that looks straight can be slightly out of line, and a threshold may sit higher on one side. Taking measurements carefully at the start saves time and avoids a gate that needs rework.

How to Measure the Width Correctly

Measure the width between the inner faces of the posts or walls at the top, middle and bottom of the opening. Use the smallest figure as your reference, because the gate must clear the narrowest point.

Measure across the opening at three heights
Note the clearance on each side of the hinge post
Check whether the gate opens inward or outward

If the gate will slide, add the length of the track and the space it needs to travel fully open.

How to Measure the Height Properly

Height is measured from the finished ground or floor level up to the top of the opening. Remember that a paved or tiled surface may be added later, so ask the contractor about the final level before fixing dimensions.

Also check the height of any overhead obstacles such as a lintel, light fixture or intercom box. The gate and its top rail should clear these comfortably, and the final height is always confirmed with the engineer on site.

Allowing Space for Swing, Hinges and Locks

A gate that swings needs a clear arc in front of it. Check that furniture, planters, the building entrance or neighbours' doors do not block the path. For sliding gates, confirm there is enough free length beside the opening.

Hinges, latches and locks also need room. Leave space for the lock box and the hardware position, and make sure the gate will not hit the wall, a step or a door frame when fully open.

What to Prepare Before the Site Visit

Having the right information ready makes the measurement visit efficient. Prepare photos of the entrance from the front and from the side, and note the surface materials on either side of the opening.

Photos of the opening and surroundings
Measurements at three heights and the ground level
Direction of opening and preferred style
Any building committee rules that apply

From Measurement to Approved Drawing

After the site visit, we prepare a drawing and a written specification that show the final dimensions, opening direction and hardware positions. You review and approve this before production begins, so you know exactly what will be made.

Once approved, the gate is manufactured in our factory, finished with hot-dip galvanizing or powder coating as chosen, and then installed. This process keeps measurements accurate from the first check to the final fitting.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need to measure the gate myself before ordering?

You can take rough measurements to start, but a site visit by our team gives the accurate figures needed for the drawing. Your own measurements and photos help us plan that visit.

Should I measure the width at the top or bottom of the opening?

Measure at the top, middle and bottom and use the smallest figure. The gate must fit through the narrowest point of the opening.

What if my entrance is not square?

Uneven openings are common in older buildings. We take measurements at several points and design the gate to suit the actual shape of the opening.

Can a gate be made taller than the standard height?

Yes, gates are made to measure, so height can be set to suit your entrance. Safety and building requirements are checked with the engineer during planning.

Common mistakes to avoid

The most common error is measuring only once at one point and ignoring the ground level or obstacles that will affect the swing. Always measure at several heights and allow room for hardware and the full opening arc.

Our recommendation

Measure the opening at three heights, note the finished ground level, and send photos before ordering. Confirm the opening direction early, since it affects the hinges, the lock position and how much space the gate needs.

Summary

Accurate gate dimensions come from measuring the real opening, checking the swing or slide space and allowing for hardware. A careful site visit and an approved drawing ensure the gate fits correctly the first time.

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