When investing in new composite gates for your property, there's more to consider than simply choosing the colour and design. What lies beneath the composite boards is just as important – and the material used to construct the frame can make a real difference to strength, stability and long-term performance.
Two of the most popular choices are steel and aluminium. Both have their advantages, but for customers looking for exceptional rigidity, traditional craftsmanship and greater freedom of design, a handcrafted steel frame has a great deal to offer.
At FABCOM, we've chosen to specialise in bespoke steel frame composite gates. Here's why.
Strength Where It Matters Most
A gate is only as strong as the structure supporting it.
Every time a gate opens or closes, its frame and hinges are subjected to movement, weight and repeated stresses. Over time, the quality of the construction becomes particularly important.
One of the biggest advantages of our handcrafted steel frames is their welded construction. Hinges and other structural components can be welded directly into the frame, creating strong, secure connections designed for everyday use.
Aluminium gates frequently use mechanical fixings and assembled frame sections, although welded aluminium designs are also available. Both construction methods can perform well when properly engineered.
For FABCOM, however, welding allows us to create a robust, integrated steel structure with carefully positioned components and the reassurance of a frame built specifically for its intended purpose.
Built to Stand Strong – Even in British Weather
We all know how unpredictable the British weather can be, particularly when the wind picks up.
Large driveway gates can experience considerable wind pressure, placing additional demands on their frames, hinges and supporting posts.
Steel naturally offers greater material stiffness than aluminium, helping suitably designed frames resist bending and unwanted movement.
This is particularly valuable for larger gates, where maintaining alignment and stability is essential for smooth operation.
Of course, the overall performance of any gate depends on its design, dimensions, installation and the strength of its supporting structures. But a carefully engineered steel frame provides an excellent foundation for lasting reliability.
Less unwanted movement, greater structural rigidity and a reassuringly solid feel – all important considerations when choosing a gate for your home.
More Than Strength – A Gate That's Uniquely Yours
One of the things we particularly love about working with steel is the freedom it gives us to create something individual.
While aluminium gates are available in an impressive range of contemporary styles, steel is especially suited to incorporating traditional wrought iron-inspired features and decorative detailing.
From ornamental rings and elegant railheads to bespoke finishing touches, steel allows us to bring classic craftsmanship into modern composite gate designs.
It's an ideal combination for homeowners who want the practicality and appearance of composite boards without losing the character of traditional metalwork.
Whether you're looking to complement existing fencing, match the architectural style of your property or create something completely individual, our made-to-measure steel frames offer plenty of possibilities.
Modern materials. Traditional craftsmanship. A design that's entirely your own.
What About Rust and Corrosion?
It's a fair question – and one that's well worth asking.
Aluminium has a natural advantage when it comes to corrosion resistance. It doesn't rust in the same way as untreated steel, making it a popular option for outdoor applications.
However, modern protective finishing processes allow steel to perform exceptionally well outdoors, too.
At FABCOM, our steel frames undergo two important protective stages.
Galvanising: Once fabricated, the frames are galvanised to provide a protective zinc coating. This helps defend the steel against rust and corrosion, including through sacrificial protection if small areas of the coating are damaged.
Powder coating: The galvanised frame is then carefully prepared and powder coated, providing an attractive finish alongside an additional protective barrier against the elements.
Together, these processes help preserve the frame's appearance and provide lasting protection when the coating system is correctly applied and maintained.
It's a combination that allows us to offer the structural advantages of steel without overlooking the importance of weather resistance.
Steel or Aluminium – Which Should You Choose?
Ultimately, both materials have their place.
Aluminium is lightweight, naturally corrosion-resistant and well suited to many modern gate designs.
Steel, on the other hand, is an excellent choice where structural rigidity, welded construction and decorative versatility are priorities.
For us at FABCOM, it's the combination of strength, craftsmanship and design flexibility that makes steel particularly appealing.
We don't simply select a standard gate from a catalogue. We fabricate our steel frames to suit your requirements, paying careful attention to the dimensions, construction, appearance and protective finish.
That means a gate designed around your property rather than asking your property to accommodate an off-the-shelf product.
Crafted with Precision. Built to Last.
A new gate is an investment in your property's appearance, practicality and security. Choosing the right materials and construction methods from the outset can make all the difference.
Our handcrafted steel frame composite gates bring together traditional fabrication skills, modern protective finishes and attractive composite boards to create a product designed to look good and perform reliably for years to come.
From contemporary driveway gates to traditional designs with decorative ironwork, every FABCOM gate is made with care, attention to detail and a commitment to quality.
Made for your property. Crafted with precision. Built to last.
Ready to Create Your Perfect Gate?
Explore our interactive FABCOM Gate Selector to discover the available styles, composite board colours, frame finishes and decorative options.
Your ideal gate starts with a design – and we're here to help bring it to life.