Aluglobus Aluminum Systems Learning Center Complete Aluminum Gate Kit Buyer’s Guide Choose the gate by movement, frame class and project conditions before choosing the slat pattern. This guide explains pedestrian, double-swing and sliding gate systems, plus sizing, hardware, assembly, automation planning and long-term care. Universal DIY Heavy-Duty Frames Single & Double Swing Contractor Sliding Factory-Direct Support Choose a Gate System Browse Current Gate Kits Overview Gate Types Frame Infill Measurements Components Installation Automation Troubleshooting FAQs Start with the correct definition A gate kit is more than hinges and a latch A generic hardware kit may contain only hinges, a latch, brackets and fasteners. An Aluglobus aluminum gate kit can be a complete gate system that combines engineered frame members, aluminum infill profiles, covers, stops and project-specific hardware. The exact contents depend on the model, dimensions and movement type. This distinction matters because gate performance starts with the frame and support conditions. A beautiful infill pattern cannot correct an undersized frame, a moving hinge post, incorrect clearances or hardware selected without considering the leaf size and use frequency. Quick answer Choose the movement first, then the frame class, opening dimensions, infill, support posts and hardware. Do not order from the nominal product title alone. Confirm the current drawing, actual opening, hinge side, swing direction, grade and mounting condition before cutting or setting posts. A complete aluminum gate system is organized around the frame, infill and connection details. Step 1 Choose the movement and frame class The current Aluglobus catalog includes Universal DIY pedestrian systems, heavy-duty pedestrian and double-swing systems, and contractor sliding gates. Availability, dimensions and contents can change, so use these categories as a planning framework rather than a substitute for the live product drawing. Simplified assembly Universal DIY Best for defined pedestrian or selected double-swing applications where the listed dimensions and mounting condition match the project. Pre-engineered frame package Field-cut infill on applicable models Follow the specific wall-to-wall or post detail Not a substitute for a motor-ready contractor frame Higher-demand swing Heavy-Duty Pedestrian For larger leaves, frequent use, demanding sites or projects that need a stronger frame and more robust support conditions. Heavier frame strategy More demanding hinge-post planning Better fit for custom hardware coordination Professional installation often preferred Two coordinated leaves Double-Swing Divides a wider opening into two leaves. Center alignment, active and inactive leaf hardware, grade and wind exposure all affect performance. Two hinge lines Center stop and drop-rod planning Equal or intentionally unequal leaves Automation requires coordinated operators Driveway movement Contractor Sliding Moves parallel to the fence line and requires a complete plan for frame stiffness, rollers or cantilever supports, guides, travel space and operator location. Track or cantilever strategy Runback space beside the opening Guide posts and roller alignment Motor, rack and safety-device coordination Universal DIY Heavy-Duty Swing Double-Swing Sliding Universal DIY gate kit Use when the exact listed system matches the opening and intended installation. Confirm whether the model is wall-to-wall, post-to-post, single-swing or double-swing before ordering. The structural decision The gate frame carries the project Fence slats provide the appearance. The gate frame controls squareness, hinge connection, latch alignment and resistance to sag. This is why a gate should never be treated as a fence panel with hinges attached to it. 1 Vertical frame membersCreate the hinge and lock sides of the leaf. Their profile, wall thickness and internal geometry are system-specific. 2 Top and bottom frameTie the leaf together and keep the infill captured. Connections must remain square before final tightening. 3 Internal reinforcementBrackets, inserts or reinforced zones transfer loads at corners, hinges, latches and motor attachment points where applicable. 4 Support posts or wallsThe strongest leaf will still sag or bind if its support moves, twists or is not plumb. “A gate without a frame is just a fence with hinges.” Use the frame class that matches the leaf size, movement, duty cycle, hardware and automation plan. Step 2 Choose the infill after the frame The current gate catalog includes multiple aluminum families. The visual profile changes privacy, weight, airflow and the number of field cuts, but the frame and installation conditions remain the first priority. Narrower horizontal line ALU20 Slat A more frequent horizontal rhythm with selectable gap configurations on applicable products. Useful where airflow and semi-privacy are part of the design. Wider slat profile ALU40 Slat A bolder horizontal appearance with fewer visual lines. Current products include black and woodgrain options across selected Universal DIY and heavy-duty gate formats. No-gap appearance ALU50 / ALU60 T&G Tongue-and-groove infill creates a more continuous privacy surface. Verify expansion allowance, orientation and the exact frame package. Architectural variation AeroLouver Angled profiles create privacy and ventilation effects. Confirm viewing direction and orientation before cutting or assembly. Mixed-material appearance Vinyl, Plexiglass or Cladding Infill Selected catalog families combine an aluminum frame with alternative infill. Material behavior and attachment details differ from an all-slat gate. Finish selection Black, Woodgrain & Custom Color Finish affects appearance and maintenance, not the structural classification. Match replacement parts and touch-up materials to the ordered finish. Non-combustible and Zone Zero planning Aluminum frame and aluminum infill profiles are non-combustible metal components. For defensible-space or Zone Zero work, evaluate the complete assembly, including infill, gaskets, operators, wiring, adjacent walls, vegetation and local requirements. Do not label a mixed-material gate compliant from the frame material alone. Step 3 Measure the actual opening, not the product title A product name such as “4 × 6” does not tell you every clearance, frame dimension or rough-opening requirement. Confirm whether the listing presents width first or height first, then compare the current drawing with field conditions. Opening widthMeasure at the top, middle and bottom. Record the smallest and largest dimensions, not only one number. Finished heightMeasure from the controlling grade or threshold. Include slope, drainage, cap and bottom-clearance conditions. Hinge sideIdentify the structural wall or post, desired swing direction and whether the gate opens inward or outward. ObstructionsCheck eaves, meters, hose bibs, steps, planters, vehicles, walls and anything inside the full swing or slide path. Step 4 Confirm exactly what is included Product families do not all ship with the same hardware. Inventory the shipment against the current packing list before beginning. Do not assume that posts, locks, operators, concrete anchors or access-control devices are included. Frame packageHinge-side and lock-side verticals, top and bottom rails, covers, corner connections and inserts listed for the model. Infill packageALU20, ALU40, T&G, louver or alternative infill in the quantity and finish ordered. Swing hardwareHinges, stops, receiver parts, latch components, drop rods or center hardware only where listed. Sliding hardwareRollers, track or cantilever hardware, guide rollers, end stops, rack and support posts as specified. Use the current packing list and drawing to identify every frame, infill and hardware component. Installation workflow Build the opening and frame in the correct order Exact assembly varies by product. The following sequence is a project-control workflow that reduces avoidable mistakes and keeps the current drawing as the final authority. Verify the orderMatch the product, dimensions, finish, hinge side, movement, infill and hardware against the invoice and packing list. Document the openingMeasure width, height, grade, wall or post conditions and the full swing or slide path before cutting any profile. Prepare support conditionsBuild or verify posts, walls, footings, slab edges and anchors for the loads. Keep hinge and guide supports plumb. Dry-fit the frameLay components on a protected flat surface. Confirm orientation, square the corners and verify diagonals before final fastening. Cut and deburr infillUse the current cut dimension, protect the finish, remove metal filings and deburr all field-cut edges before assembly. Install infill consistentlyKeep the selected gap, orientation and pattern consistent. Do not force bowed or incorrectly cut profiles into the frame. Attach hardware to reinforced zonesMount hinges, stops, locks, guides and motor connections only where the frame detail permits. Hang or position the gateSupport the leaf during installation. Set clearances, then check plumb, level, swing or travel before final tightening. Adjust stops and receiver partsSet positive open and closed positions. The latch, stopper and center hardware should meet without pulling the gate out of alignment. Test and documentCycle the gate repeatedly, inspect fasteners and record final settings, replacement-part information and maintenance requirements. Frame orientation, connection points and infill direction must be confirmed before final fastening. DIY or contractor installation Use the installation path that matches the risk A standardized pedestrian kit in an existing square opening is different from a large double-swing driveway gate or an automated sliding gate. DIY suitability depends on the exact system and site, not only the buyer’s tool experience. ConditionDIY may be reasonableContractor support is strongly recommended OpeningExisting, square and structurally soundNew posts, retaining walls, slopes or uncertain structure Gate typeListed Universal DIY pedestrian systemLarge heavy-duty, double-swing or sliding gate HardwareManual hinge and latch packageAutomation, access control or custom locks CuttingSimple repeatable field cuts with correct toolsCompound angles, welding, reinforcement or finish repair ComplianceSimple residential condition with verified requirementsPool barrier, commercial access, fire-zone or permitted work Motor and access-control planning Automation must be planned into the gate Do not add an operator to a frame that was not designed for automation. Motor force, attachment points, stops, hinges, rollers and safety devices must function as one system. Motor-ready frameUse a contractor or specifically approved motor-ready configuration with reinforced attachment zones. Operator selectionMatch movement, leaf dimensions, gate mass, duty cycle, wind exposure and travel geometry. Positive stopsMechanical open and closed limits prevent the operator from using the gate structure as its stopping device. Safety and releaseCoordinate entrapment protection, photo eyes, edges, emergency release and access-control behavior with the operator manufacturer and applicable requirements. Universal DIY limitation Do not assume a Universal DIY frame can be motorized. Use it only within the application described by the live product documentation. For an automated project, select a motor-ready heavy-duty or contractor system before ordering. Read the Sliding Gate Guide Diagnose the cause Common gate-kit problems and what to check SymptomLikely causeWhat to inspectCorrective direction Gate sags after hangingMoving support, frame out of square or incorrect hinge setupPost plumb, footing, diagonals, hinge fasteners and reinforcementCorrect the support or frame cause before adjusting the latch Latch misses the receiverSettlement, incorrect clearances or receiver positioned too earlyLeaf level, closed stop, hinge adjustment and receiver alignmentRe-square and set final closed position before relocating the receiver Slat gaps change across the gateFrame not square, inconsistent spacers or uneven cutsTop-to-bottom frame width, spacer orientation and cut lengthsCorrect the frame and rebuild the affected infill sequence Gate rubs the groundInsufficient bottom clearance, grade rise or support movementFull swing path, slope, hinge line and finished gradeCorrect support and geometry, not only the rubbing edge Double leaves do not meet evenlyUnequal supports, incorrect leaf widths or center hardwareBoth hinge posts, diagonals, centerline and stopsSet each leaf independently, then coordinate the center closure Sliding gate jerks or bindsTrack, roller or guide misalignmentFoundation, straightness, debris, guide clearance and rack meshCorrect the travel system before increasing motor force Fasteners loosen repeatedlyMovement, incorrect fastener, damaged threads or no positive stopConnection material, hardware specification and impact at limitsCorrect the underlying movement and replace damaged components Finish becomes scratched or stainedAbrasive handling, metal filings, concrete residue or harsh cleanerCutting area, storage, nearby work and cleaning productsRemove contaminants promptly and use approved touch-up procedures Maintenance Protect alignment before replacing parts Most gate problems begin with movement, impact or neglected debris. A short inspection schedule helps catch the cause before it becomes a frame, operator or access-control failure. 1Monthly visual checkLook for rubbing, loose covers, new noises, damaged stops and objects in the movement path. 2Twice-yearly hardware checkInspect hinges, rollers, guides, latches, stops and accessible fasteners. Follow hardware-specific lubrication instructions. 3Finish cleaningUse clean water, mild soap and a soft cloth. Remove coastal salts, concrete residue and metal filings promptly. 4Automated-gate serviceTest safety devices and manual release according to the operator manufacturer and service schedule. Frequently asked questions Gate kit FAQs What is included in an Aluglobus aluminum gate kit? Contents vary by system. A complete kit may include vertical and horizontal frame members, infill profiles, covers, corner connections, stops and selected hardware. Posts, locks, operators, access control, anchors and other items may be separate. Verify the current packing list for the exact SKU. What is the difference between Universal DIY and heavy-duty gate kits? Universal DIY systems simplify assembly for defined applications and dimensions. Heavy-duty systems use a more demanding frame and support strategy for larger leaves, frequent use, custom hardware or motor-ready projects. The product drawing, not the marketing label alone, determines the permitted application. Can a Universal DIY gate be automated? Do not assume it can. Use the Universal DIY system only within the live documentation. Automated gates need a motor-ready frame, reinforced attachment zones, positive stops, suitable supports and required safety devices. Select a contractor or specifically approved system for automation. How do I know whether a 4 × 6 gate is four feet wide or six feet wide? Do not rely on the title convention. Confirm the dimension order on the live product page and drawing, then compare the actual frame size and required opening with your field measurements. Should I choose a single-swing or double-swing gate? Single-swing uses one leaf and one hinge line but needs the full arc and a support capable of carrying the complete leaf. Double-swing divides the opening between two supports, but adds center alignment, inactive-leaf hardware and more coordination. Grade, wind, opening width and automation all affect the decision. When is a sliding gate better than a swing gate? Sliding movement can work where inward or outward swing space is restricted, but it needs sufficient runback beside the opening and a complete track or cantilever plan. Foundation, rollers, guides, motor position and safety devices must be coordinated. Are hinges and locks always included? No. Included hardware varies by product and configuration. Some kits list specific hinges, stops or receiver parts, while locks, posts, anchors or automation components may be sold separately. Confirm the SKU packing list before ordering. Can I cut the aluminum slats in the field? Many kit systems require field-cut infill, but the cut dimension and method are product-specific. Protect the finish, use the correct blade, support the profile, deburr the edge and remove all metal filings. Do not cut the structural frame without an approved detail. Is an aluminum gate suitable for Zone Zero projects? Aluminum frame and aluminum infill profiles are non-combustible components. Compliance depends on the complete assembly and local requirements, especially when the system includes vinyl, plexiglass, seals, operators, wiring or adjacent combustible materials. What information should I send before requesting a gate quote? Send the clear opening width and height, photos from both sides, grade changes, wall or post conditions, desired movement, hinge side, swing direction, infill style, finish, manual or automated operation and any access-control requirements. Factory-direct project support Send the opening before choosing the gate kit Share dimensions, photos, movement type, finish, infill, support conditions and automation requirements with Aluglobus Aluminum Systems. The team can help direct the project toward the correct Universal DIY, heavy-duty or contractor gate system. Request Gate Support Browse Current Gate Kits View Gate Projects Back to Learning Center This guide is educational and does not replace the current product drawing, packing list, structural engineering, permit requirements, operator instructions, safety standards or local code. Product configurations, dimensions, included hardware, finishes, availability and prices may change. Verify the exact order before setting supports, cutting profiles or installing automation.