01Perimeter FrameThe frame controls gate geometry and helps resist sagging or twisting. Its profile, wall thickness, corners and reinforcement matter more than surface appearance.
02Hinge SideEvery cycle transfers load through the hinges into the post or wall. Heavy-duty entries need attachment points designed for repeated movement.
03Latch & ClosureLatches, closers, stops and access hardware require solid attachment. Their location influences alignment, safety and day-to-day reliability.
04Wind & PrivacyA solid or nearly solid gate acts like a sail. Gate width, height, gaps, location and wind exposure should inform the complete structural design.
01Composite CompositionMany composite boards combine wood or cellulose fiber with thermoplastic polymers and additives. Product formulations and test results vary, but this is not the same material category as noncombustible aluminum.
02The Connection PointA side gate often sits beside or attaches near a residence. That makes the material transition at the home especially important in wildfire-prone areas.
03Aluminum AlternativeAn all-aluminum gate option retains noncombustible aluminum in both the structural frame and infill while still allowing solid colors and wood-look finishes.
CYCLESRepeated MovementEvery opening and closing cycle transfers load through the frame. Hardware alignment and corner rigidity become long-term performance issues.
UVSun & ColorComposite color retention depends on formulation, cap layer, pigment, climate and exposure. Aluglobus uses an architectural powder-coated finish over aluminum.
HEATThermal MovementComposite boards and aluminum profiles move with temperature. Proper clearances and connections should allow the system to move without binding.
IMPACTServiceabilityAsk whether damaged infill, covers or hardware can be accessed and replaced without rebuilding the complete gate. Repair planning is part of good system design.
WALKPedestrian GatesSide-yard and pool-area gates need reliable alignment, latch support and appropriate self-closing hardware when required. Opening direction, clear width, threshold, hinges and wall or post conditions must be planned together.
SWINGDouble-Swing GatesWide driveway openings divide into two leaves, but each leaf still creates cantilever loads at its hinges. Grade, center stop, wind, automation arms and emergency access can affect the design.
SLIDESliding GatesSliding entries require adequate runback, a stable track or cantilever system, rollers, guides, stops and operator coordination. The infill design should not interfere with the moving hardware.
Fabricated GateDimensions, frame profile, reinforcement, infill orientation, privacy, finish, gate type and fabrication determine the gate cost. A composite board price does not include the complete frame and hardware.
Hardware & AutomationHinges, rollers, tracks, latches, closers, operators, controls and safety devices can represent a meaningful part of the project. Compare quotes with equivalent components and installation responsibilities.
Ownership CostInclude service, alignment, hardware replacement, operator maintenance, finish care and repair access. A properly planned gate can reduce costly field modifications and prevent mismatched systems.
COMPOSITE APPROACHWood-Like Board as InfillThe composite board may look attractive, but the fabricator still needs a suitable frame, reinforcement, hinge plan and operator connection.
ALUGLOBUS APPROACHWood Appearance. Aluminum Underneath.Choose Ipe, Walnut, Yellow Oak, White Oak or Warm Teak-inspired finishes with a structural aluminum gate system.
COMPOSITE-FIRSTWood-plastic appearance drives the selectionFrame must still be specifiedHinge and motor support must be confirmedComposite is not noncombustible metalBoard limits can control the design
ALUMINUM-SYSTEMStructural frame drives the entryHD and motor-ready optionsNoncombustible aluminum material7-stage pretreatment and AAMA 2604Custom sizes, colors and wood looks