Reviewing Gate Drawings and Specifications Before You Sign

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Before signing for a gate, check that the drawings show exact dimensions, opening direction, materials, finishing and installation points, and that the written specification matches them. Ask for corrections in writing so the approved documents are the ones that get produced.

Why the Drawing Matters More Than the Sales Talk

A gate is made to measure, so the drawing is the document that tells the factory exactly what to build. A verbal description or a photo of a similar gate cannot replace it. Once you sign, the drawing becomes the reference for production, so it is worth reading slowly and asking questions about anything unclear.

Look for a drawing that shows the full opening width and height, the position of posts, and how the leaves open. If something is missing, ask for it before approval rather than after production.

Checking Dimensions and Site Measurements

The dimensions on the drawing should come from an on-site measurement, not from memory or an old plan. Confirm the clear opening, the wall or post thickness, and the level of the ground where the gate will sit. Check whether the drawing notes any slope, uneven paving or existing obstacles that could affect the swing.

Clear width and height of the opening
Post positions and sizes
Ground slope and clearance under the gate
Swing space needed on both sides

Reading the Materials and Profiles

The specification should name the materials and profile sizes used for the frame, infill and posts. Steel and aluminum behave differently under load, weather and daily use, so a gate described only as 'metal' leaves too much open. Ask what type of steel or aluminum is used, the wall thickness of the tubes, and how the infill is attached.

Compare the specification with the drawing. Frame sizes and infill spacing noted in one document should match the other.

Finishing, Coating and Surface Protection

The finishing section decides how the gate looks and how long it resists weather. Check whether the specification calls for hot-dip galvanizing, powder coating, or both, and confirm the colour code or sample. Ask how the surface is prepared before coating, since preparation strongly affects durability.

If a color is specified, ask for a sample or a reference so the result does not depend on how a screen displays it.

Mechanism, Locks and Automation

Confirm how the gate opens and closes: manual, sliding, swinging or automated. If automation is included, the specification should list the motor type, the power supply, the safety sensors and the remote controls. Check where cables and boxes will be placed so they are not exposed to rain or damage.

Also confirm the lock or latch type, its position and whether the drawing shows access from both sides.

Installation, Responsibilities and Written Approval

The document should explain who does what: the factory production, the installation work, the foundation or concrete, and any electrical connection. Unclear responsibilities often create disputes after the gate is installed. Ask for these points to be written clearly in the specification.

Once you are satisfied, approve the final drawing and specification in writing, with a version date. Keep a copy, and do not approve documents that still contain 'to be confirmed' items.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need to approve the drawing before production starts?

Yes. The approved drawing is the reference for manufacturing, so approval should happen only after you have checked dimensions and details. Any later change should be recorded in writing.

What if the drawing and the specification do not match?

Ask for both documents to be corrected so they agree before signing. A mismatch between them is one of the most common sources of disagreement.

Should I check the gate on site before installation?

Yes, it is wise to confirm the opening and ground conditions on site before production is finalized. Small measurement errors are much easier to fix before the gate is made.

Can I request changes after signing?

Changes may be possible, but they can affect the schedule and the work already done. It is better to request them during the review stage.

Common mistakes to avoid

Signing a drawing with missing dimensions or unclear materials is the most frequent mistake. Relying on verbal promises that do not appear in the written specification also causes problems later.

Our recommendation

Measure the opening yourself, compare every dimension with the drawing, and approve only a complete version marked with a date. Ask the factory to explain anything you do not understand before you sign.

Summary

Review the drawing, dimensions, materials, finishing, mechanism and installation responsibilities together, and approve only the final written version.

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