In the debate published by Amazing Gates over aluminum verses steel driveway gates, we believe our competitors at Amazing Gates have misled online shoppers by comparing the mild steel they use to low-grade aluminum that isn’t even designed for driveway gates. We want to set the record straight and clearly illustrate that not all aluminum is the same.

Below, you'll see a high-quality Gate Crafters 6061-T6 grade aluminum driveway gate and how it easily surpasses an impromptu weight test. Then, watch a direct comparison to the inferior aluminum product presented by Amazing Gates.

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Another misconception presented by Amazing Gates is the comparison between aluminum driveway gates and residential fencing, commonly found along the perimeter of large country properties. This type of pop-together aluminum fencing may resemble a driveway gate from a distance, but it is primarily designed to visually deter animals and pedestrians from crossing onto private property. This inexpensive panel doesn't come close to the high grade or yield strength of Gate Crafters' 6061-T6 aluminum.

See the Real Difference Compare the images. Above is a Gate Crafters 6061-T6 grade aluminum picket prior to being painted. Now, take a look at the image below. Its a low-grade pool fence post. This damaged aluminum post is from one of our competitors and was originally designed for in-ground pool fencing. Unfortunately, many competitors mislead customers by marketing this product as suitable for driveway gates, creating the false impression that it meets the necessary strength requirements. However, it lacks the durability needed for driveway gates.

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Aluminum Resistance

Each aluminum gate is constructed from 6061-T6 rust-free wrought aluminum alloy. This high-grade alloy has a yield strength of approximately 35,000 pounds per square inch—significantly stronger than "mild steel," which has a yield strength of about 20,000 to 30,000 pounds per square inch, depending on the alloy quality.

6061-T6 wrought aluminum is specifically chosen for its durability and resiliency, offering excellent dent resistance and long-lasting beauty. Gate Crafters ships nationwide, and we use this higher-grade aluminum to prevent shipping damage. We take pride in the fact that our gates withstand the rigors of transportation and remain durable for a lifetime.

Most aluminum gate manufacturers use 6063 aluminum, a weaker alloy that lacks the yield strength and resilience of 6061-T6. Many manufacturers opt for this cheaper grade without considering the importance of additional resiliency—especially when driveway gates must endure everyday impacts. A key test of a gate's quality is its ability to absorb pressure and return to its original shape. The 6061-T6 alloy is highly pliable, much like an airplane wing; when pressure is applied, it flexes, and when the pressure is released, it regains its original form.

This picture was sent in as a testament to the quality and strength of a Gate Crafters aluminum gate. The customer purchased and installed the gate in 2008. In December 2010, a violent storm struck, causing a large tree to crash onto the gate. As seen in the picture, the tree—large enough to crush a car or house—caused minimal damage to the gate. What makes a Gate Crafters gate this strong? It's the combination of an all-welded design, 6061-T6 aluminum, and an automation-ready horizontal crossbar. Additionally, because all our gates are built in the USA, we closely monitor quality to ensure superior craftsmanship.

Aluminum vs. Steel Comparison Guide

Now that you've seen the different types of aluminum, check out this comparison guide to learn why aluminum outperforms steel in material quality, durability, and automation capabilities.

Thanks to its chemical composition, aluminum doesn’t rust. It naturally resists corrosion due to a protective surface layer of aluminum oxide. Ultimately, 6061-T6 rust-free wrought aluminum alloy surpasses steel in every category, from ease of installation to efficient automation and beyond.

Now, take a look at our competitor’s steel gate:

Galvanized Steel's Negative Environmental Impact

Amazing Gates promotes its galvanized steel product line, highlighting the extensive process used to create galvanized steel as the foundation for all their driveway gates. While the process may seem intricate, in this case, "more" doesn’t necessarily mean "better." According to a 1992 EPA document titled "Waste Minimization Assessment for a Manufacturer Producing Galvanized Steel Parts," industrial plants generate significant hazardous waste, leading to costly disposal challenges and increased environmental stress.

The galvanization process produces two major sources of wastewater: waste acid and acidic rinse water. Proper disposal of this acid consumes landfill space, and if not handled correctly, it can cause severe environmental damage. Due to stricter galvanization standards in the U.S., many steel driveway gate manufacturers outsource production overseas, particularly to Asia and surrounding regions, where environmental regulations are less stringent. Companies take advantage of this outsourcing to benefit from lower labor costs and looser environmental standards.

Despite these concerns surrounding galvanized steel, Gate Crafters wants you to know that aluminum is a far more environmentally friendly alternative. In fact, SapaGroup.com describes aluminum as the "Green Metal" due to its lower pollution impact during production and its ability to be recycled and reused.

Trust Gate Crafters

If you have any questions about using aluminum, give us a call at 1-800-537-4283.