FAQs
Questions?
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This is the gateway to the answers people are most often looking for.
Click here for common questions on delivery, install and longevity
Click here for common questions on materials, size and weight
Delivery
Install
Longevity questions
We have been delivering our gates Australia-wide since 1999.
Within metro Sydney and outlying districts, delivery is direct to your site or property.
In all other areas, delivery is to our nearest freight or transport depot, unless you have unloading facilities such as a forklift on site. In this case, we can deliver to the last point of delivery vehicle access at your property.
Delivery within NSW and ACT is free.
A flat rate fee applies for all other states as detailed below. This single fee covers all gates included in the same order and delivery to our nearest transport depot in your location.
- NT – $770
- QLD – $440
- SA – $440
- TAS – $550
- VIC – $330
- WA – $660
As all handcrafted Authentic Gates are made to order, they are typically despatched 2-4 weeks from receipt of payment. For interstate or regional orders, please allow an extra 2-3 days transport time.
If you need your gate sooner, you may like to check out the floorstock range of timber and steel gates that are available for immediate despatch.
If you have a specific deadline, please give us a call on 1300 288 436. We’ll check our production schedule and see if we can accommodate your timing requirements.
All timber and steel gates arrive complete and ready to hang – fully assembled and pre-fitted with latch hardware, hinge kits and gudgeons.
Suitable posts are best sourced from your local fencing contractor who can advise on the best option for your soil conditions.
As a general rule, for the larger hardwood and metal gates we recommend:
- Hardwood posts at least 200mm thick
- Treated softwood posts at least 300mm thick
Firstly, measure the distance between your posts and then allow for hinge and swing clearance. Each gate needs to be 100mm narrower than the available opening to allow for hardware to be fitted and the gate to swing freely.
- Single gate width = the shortest measurement between your posts minus 100mm
- Double gate width = the shortest measurement between your posts minus 200mm
For more detailed instructions you can download our measuring guide here.
Most gates only require a two-person lift, and installation is straightforward as every gate arrives ready to hang with hinges and latch hardware pre-fitted. As such, they are DIY-friendly.
However, if you need assistance, any reputable fencing contractor can help – if you need recommendations, we may be able to refer you to contractors in your area following purchase.
As specialist gate manufacturers, we do not offer fencing, site works or installation services. However, following purchase, we may be able to refer you to local trades who specialise in these fields.
As gate manufacturers, we don’t supply motors – but all of our gates are automation ready and this is best completed after installation.
Our timber and steel driveway and entrance gates can be automated by a reputable gate automation company once fitted to properly founded posts. Customers have successfully used hydraulic rams, worm drives, crank arms and more with excellent results.
If you wish to stop small animals, such as dogs, rabbits, chooks, lambs, getting in or out, we recommend fitting some fine chicken mesh or wire to the bottom of your gate after it has been installed.
This mesh can be purchased from most hardware or rural supply stores. It is usually available in silver or black, and is barely noticeable once fitted, so won’t detract from the beauty of your gate.
Because we only use seasoned Australian hardwood and premium Australian steel, Authentic Gates are naturally weather resistant for at least 40 years – come rain, sun, wind or snow.
For timber gates: Oiling, staining or painting will further maximise their lifetime. Good quality decking oils (avoid water-based oils) such as Sikkens, produce the best results.
For steel gates: Left to weather naturally, they will develop a rusted patina over time – this does not affect structural integrity. Alternatively, a top coat of enamel paint can be applied to maintain a traditional ‘black iron’ finish.
Materials
Size & weight
Authenticity questions
All of our gates are Australian-made, handcrafted by skilled craftspeople in our workshop located in Wetherill Park, Sydney.
When sourcing materials, we select only the best.
Our standard range of timber gates are expertly crafted from properly seasoned, chemical-free Class 1 and 2 Australian hardwoods. Sustainably harvested from responsibly managed licensed forests, they are hand-selected for both their durability and natural beauty. We do not use ‘reject grade’ timbers or any inferior imported woods.
Our metal gates are hand-welded from solid – not hollow tube – premium Australian steel.
Only heavy duty galvanised steel nuts, bolts, washers, brackets and hardware are used along with high-quality strap hinges, gudgeons, drop bolts and latches.
All wooden gates are supplied with their natural timber surface ready for oiling, staining or painting.
You can also allow our hardwood gates to weather naturally to achieve a silvery grey patina – this will not affect warranty coverage.
Steel gates are available in a choice of two finishes; a ‘natural rustique patina’ finish for an immediate aged-iron appearance, or black zinc-rich epoxy undercoat – this allows natural surface patina and weathering to develop over time. Alternatively you may choose to apply a top coat of suitable enamel to maintain the classic ‘black iron’ appearance.
Yes, simply select the size up and we will reduce it to your desired length. Please note the width of the opening in the ‘order comments’ section at checkout:
Please custom make to suit my existing entry of _ _ _ mm
If you can’t find the gate you previously purchased, it’s probably because some of our gates now have new names. Don’t worry. The designs themselves have stayed the same and haven’t been discontinued.
Name changes:
- The Rural Farm → The Estate Series I
- The Estate → The Estate Series II
- The Vigneron → The Estate Series III
- The Colonial → The Vintage
Can’t find what you’re looking for? Call us on 1300 288 436 or email sales@authenticgates.com.au and we’ll help you find the right gate.
Absolutely – we specialise in custom driveway gates, farm gates, garden gates and larger entrance gates. So, if you’re looking for something personal or one of a kind, our bespoke gate design service can bring it to life.
Whether you’re looking for timber, steel, wrought iron, or any combination of materials, we work closely with you to turn your unique vision into reality.
Head to our Custom Gates page for information and inspiration, or call us on 1300 288 436 to discuss your ideas.
We stand behind our gates!
Our hardwood gates include a full 10-year warranty. Metal gates are supported by a comprehensive 10-year structural warranty – surface deterioration of the unfinished product is a natural and desired effect, and therefore not covered.
Warranties are also included for floorstock and limited-release designs, although these may vary.
Many of our single timber gate designs are available in individual widths up to a maximum of 3.6m. The steel gate range is available up to a 3.9m single span.
The widest standard size listed for each gate design is the maximum width that design will support. Most designs can be reduced in width to a smaller custom size at no charge.
Made from durable Australian hardwood or solid steel, most of our driveway gates weigh between 80 to 120kg per gate. Smaller, pedestrian gates are approximately 40-50kg.
As a general rule, our gates weigh approximately 20-30kg per m². For example, a gate measuring 3.6m wide x 1.2m high has a total area of 4.32m², resulting in an approximate total weight of 86-130kg:
- 3.6 x 1.2 = 4.32m²
- 4.32 x 20 = 86.4kg
- 4.32 x 30 = 129.6kg
Every Authentic Gate carries our logo as a badge of authenticity – your assurance of quality, warranty coverage, and our confidence in putting our name to it.
But what really sets our gates apart is decades of traditional craftsmanship, premium Australian materials and an unwavering commitment to detail:
Built to Last:
- Heavy-duty galvanised hardware and full strength construction methods – fully bolted timber structures (some screws, never nails) and precision-welded steel frames
- Our unique Bolt-Action Latch™ fitted to every gate from our standard range. This is lockable with standard padlocks
- Strategic engineering and full diagonal bracing to prevent sagging – no shortcuts or inferior components
Australian Made:
- Hand-selected premium materials chosen specifically for Australian conditions – seasoned Australian hardwoods and solid steel sections
- Manufactured in our Sydney workshop by skilled craftspeople
- No cheap imports or reject grade materials
Attention to Detail:
- Precision construction that eliminates weak points and moisture traps
- Weather-smart features such as angled grain and self-draining connections
- Expert craftsmanship in every joint, weld, and connection
Every gate is handcrafted to order with the care and attention that ensures a lasting first impression, while delivering reliable performance for generations.
Still need an answer?
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