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
01. Inspect the Complete FrameCheck the top, bottom and both sides, not just the visible infill. Aluglobus emphasizes fully framed, custom-size gate configurations. Ask for the actual frame profile, corner connections and engineering for your specific opening.
02. Check the Lockset and Impact StripThe lock, strike area and frame should work together. The Aluglobus comparison highlights a universal gate lock system and engineered impact strip. Check compatibility, replacement parts and support for the hardware specified.
03. Look Inside the Wood-Look SurfaceBoth materials can resemble wood, but Aluglobus features a structural aluminum core with a sublimated finish using Italian-made film. Composite commonly combines wood or cellulose with plastic. Confirm the exact product specification.
04. Ask How the Finish Is MadeOur reference highlights seven-stage pretreatment and an AAMA 2604 architectural powder-coat specification. Confirm the coating system and documentation rather than choosing only from a color swatch.
05. Get the Warranty in WritingThe advertised 25-year limited manufacturer warranty relates to qualifying Aluglobus aluminum materials. Request the complete written terms and ask separately about coatings, locksets, hinges, motors, other hardware and installation labor.