Front Gates - Which - iron/wood/ steel....

[bantragh]

Which is th best material to order for front gates in i.e. wooden (probably too much trouble) Iron , Steel (expensive - but perhaps worth it as maintenance free) -.... or is there another material?
I would like to have the option of automating them in the future - so I guess wood is a nuisance for that - or is it?
I have checked the key post but this specific Q (which material to use) is not included. Many thanks

 

[sydthebeat]

Which is th best material to order for front gates in i.e. wooden (probably too much trouble) Iron , Steel (expensive - but perhaps worth it as maintenance free) -.... or is there another material?
I would like to have the option of automating them in the future - so I guess wood is a nuisance for that - or is it?
I have checked the key post but this specific Q (which material to use) is not included. Many thanks

'best material' is a relative question.....
the material may be predefined due to structure ie wood may not take the span.
generally a frame of steel with timber finishing is commonplace.

it all comes down to budget, taste and aesthetics.