Timber looks incredible.
Warm. Natural. Premium.
But here’s the uncomfortable truth: almost 7 out of 10 times, people replace their timber gates within 8 to 12 years, not because they want a new look, but because the wood breaks. Warping. Rot. Cracks. Mechanical issues. And when automation is involved, those problems accelerate fast.
If you’re choosing between real wood and wood-look aluminum for your driveway gate, this decision matters more than most people realise.
The Aesthetic Myth: Real Wood vs. Modern Aluminum
Let’s start with the obvious. Yes, solid timber has character. Grain variation. Depth. No two gates look the same.
But modern wood-look aluminium has closed the gap, dramatically.
High-quality powder-coated aluminium can replicate timber tones so accurately that over 80% of homeowners can’t tell the difference from five metres away, according to architectural finish studies. The visual win of real timber isn’t as decisive as it used to be.
Weight: The Hidden Enemy of Automated Gates
Here’s where timber starts costing you.
Gates made of solid wood are heavy. Very heavy. That extra weight always puts stress on motors, hinges, and tracks, especially in systems for automatic driveway gates.
What that means in real terms:
- Shorter motor lifespan
- More frequent servicing
- Higher failure risk during heat and moisture changes
Wood-look aluminium is typically 40–60% lighter than hardwood alternatives. Lighter gates move more smoothly, respond faster, and place far less stress on automation hardware.
Maintenance Reality Check (Be Honest)
Timber requires commitment. Not once. Every year.
To keep a wooden gate functional and attractive, you’ll need:
- Sealing or oiling every 12–18 months
- Crack and joint inspections
- Moisture damage repairs
- Pest prevention
Miss a cycle, and damage compounds. In contrast, aluminium gates need little more than a wash. No swelling. No rot. No repainting.
Over 10 years, timber gates can cost 2–3 times more in maintenance alone than aluminium equivalents.
Climate Doesn’t Care About Your Design Choice
Timber always expands and contracts in Australia because of things like heatwaves, coastal air, and sudden downpours. That movement can lead to:
- Misalignment
- Gate dragging
- Motor calibration issues
This is a major reason Melbourne motorised gate technicians often recommend aluminum for automated systems. Stability matters more than appearance when motors are involved.
Longevity and Resale Value
With little maintenance, a properly installed aluminium gate can last for more than 25 years. Timber doesn’t do it very often, especially when it’s automated.
Buyers are also more informed now. Low-maintenance materials signal long-term value, not shortcuts.
So, Should You Ever Choose Timber?
Yes, if:
- You’re okay with ongoing upkeep
- The gate is manual
- You value traditional craftsmanship over convenience
But for most modern homes, wood-look aluminium delivers the same visual impact without the regret.
Final Word
Real timber feels romantic at first. Then the bills arrive.
Aluminium doesn’t ask for attention. It just works.
When performance, automation, and longevity matter, the smarter choice isn’t always the most traditional one.
And that’s something to think about before your gate starts to stick.
