New Orleans driveways, courtyards, and property entrances have a character unlike anywhere else in the country, and the gate that guards them should reflect that. At Big Easy Iron Works, we design and fabricate custom iron gates for New Orleans properties of every size and style, from single-panel swing gates on compact Garden District lots to ornate double sliding gates at Lakeview estates. We handle the full scope: gate type selection, custom fabrication, automatic opener installation, entry system setup, and long-term repair.
Our team has been working iron in New Orleans for over 30 years. Every gate we build is fabricated locally, sized to your exact driveway, and matched to your existing ironwork, fence, or architecture. We are fully licensed and insured throughout the metro area. Call us at 504-732-0066 for a free on-site estimate with no commitment required.
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The right gate for your property depends on your driveway width, available clearance space, terrain, and the look you want to achieve. We install every major gate configuration and walk you through the tradeoffs during your free on-site consultation. Here is a breakdown of each type.
A single swing gate uses one panel mounted on hinges along one side of the driveway opening. It swings inward toward the property when opened, which means the driveway needs a clear arc of space in front of the gate. Single swing gates are the most straightforward and affordable configuration and work well on standard driveways with enough depth between the gate and any garage or parking pad. They pair naturally with a matching fence line and are available in any ornamental iron design.
Double swing gates use two panels that open outward from a center point, similar to a pair of French doors. They create a grand, symmetrical entrance and work well for wider driveways on estate-size properties. Because both panels swing outward, the driveway needs clearance space in front of the gate on both sides. Double swing configurations are popular in Uptown and Lakeview for homes with generous setbacks and formal landscaping.
A single sliding gate runs parallel to the fence line instead of swinging in or out, which eliminates the need for any driveway clearance space. The panel rides along a track and disappears to one side when the gate is open. Sliding gates are the most practical solution for New Orleans shotgun-house lots and narrow urban driveways where there is simply no room for a swing arc. This configuration is consistently one of our most requested installs across the metro area.
Double sliding gates use two panels that slide in opposite directions when opening, allowing for a wider driveway opening without requiring the swing clearance of a double swing gate. Like the single slide, both panels travel along the fence line, making this configuration a strong choice for wide driveways on properties where clearance or aesthetics rule out a swing design.
A cantilever gate slides horizontally but has no bottom track. Instead of rolling on a ground-level rail, the gate is supported by rollers mounted at the top, allowing it to float above the driveway surface. This design eliminates the bottom track that collects debris, mud, and standing water, which matters considerably in New Orleans where yards drain slowly and heavy rains are routine. Cantilever gates are an excellent answer for sloped driveways, uneven ground, and any property where a ground track would be a flooding or maintenance liability. The hardware is more complex than a standard slide gate, but the long-term performance advantage in the Gulf South climate is significant.
Pedestrian gates are smaller walk-through openings separate from the main driveway gate. They provide side-yard access, courtyard entries, pool enclosure access, and garden path entries without requiring the main driveway gate to be opened. Most clients pair a pedestrian gate with their driveway gate install so that foot traffic has a dedicated, secure passage. We fabricate pedestrian gates in the same iron style as the primary gate for a cohesive look across the property.
An automatic gate uses a motor and a mechanical drive system, either an arm actuator for swing gates or a chain or rack drive for sliding gates, to open and close the panel on command. The motor receives a signal from your chosen entry device and cycles the gate through its full travel. Modern systems are quiet, fast, and built to handle thousands of cycles before requiring service. Here are the primary entry and access options we install.
If you already have an existing iron gate, it may be possible to add an automatic opener without replacing the gate, provided the frame and hardware are structurally sound. We assess existing gates during free consultations and advise on whether the current structure is compatible with motorization.
The Gulf South is one of the harshest environments for metal, with year-round humidity, salt air, intense UV exposure, and heavy seasonal rainfall. Material selection affects both the maintenance load and the long-term appearance of the gate.
Whatever material you choose, we finish and treat every gate for Gulf South conditions before installation and advise on the right maintenance schedule during the final walkthrough.
New Orleans has one of the largest inventories of intact historic residential architecture in the United States, and the city regulatory framework reflects that. Gates for properties in locally designated historic districts are subject to review by the Historic District Landmarks Commission (HDLC), which evaluates proposed changes for compatibility with the historic character of the district.
Custom iron is almost always approvable under HDLC guidelines because it aligns with the ornamental ironwork traditions that have defined New Orleans architecture since the 18th century. Materials like aluminum with modern panel designs, chain-link, or vinyl are frequently rejected in historic districts. Working with an ironwork fabricator who understands HDLC expectations from the outset saves time and avoids redesign.
For narrow shotgun-house lots, which make up a significant share of the residential fabric in neighborhoods like Marigny, Treme, Bywater, and Mid-City, sliding and cantilever gates are almost always the correct choice. A swing gate requires driveway depth that many of these lots simply do not have. We assess the available clearance during the on-site consultation and recommend the gate type that fits the actual geometry of the property.
The HDLC permit process generally follows this sequence: initial consultation with HDLC staff on design intent, submission of design drawings for staff or full commission review depending on the scope, and then a standard permit from the City of New Orleans Department of Safety and Permits. We work with clients through this process and provide drawings in the format HDLC requires.
The Garden District, French Quarter, Marigny, Uptown, and Treme each have distinct ironwork design traditions. We can match scrollwork, finial styles, and panel proportions to existing fencing, railings, or neighboring gates so that the new installation reads as part of the property original design rather than an addition.
Gate pricing varies considerably based on gate type, material, panel size, automation, entry systems, and site conditions. The following ranges provide context for budgeting, but every property is different. We provide exact pricing only after an on-site measurement and consultation, which is free.
Key factors that affect the final cost include gate type (swing vs. sliding vs. cantilever), material choice, total opening width, level of design detail, automation selection, entry system, and any site conditions such as a slope, drainage issues, or difficult post-setting terrain.
Ready to get an exact number for your property? Call 504-732-0066 to schedule your free on-site estimate. We measure the opening, assess the terrain, and give you a written quote before any work begins.
Whether you are replacing an aging gate, adding automation to an existing one, or starting from scratch on a new installation, we are ready to help you find the right solution for your property and your budget. Call 504-732-0066 or reach out online to schedule your free on-site estimate with Big Easy Iron Works. We serve the greater New Orleans metro and North Shore with no-pressure, no-obligation site visits.
Timeline varies by design complexity, fabrication queue, and permit requirements. We provide a project timeline estimate during the consultation phase.
We service and repair gates we have installed as well as existing gates that need attention. Common service calls include hinge lubrication and adjustment, rust spot treatment at damaged paint or coating areas, opener motor service and sensor recalibration, limit switch adjustment after seasonal movement in gate posts, and emergency repair response when a gate will not open or close. We also handle storm damage repair after hurricanes and severe weather, which is a recurring need across the New Orleans metro.
Routine annual maintenance, primarily hinge lubrication and a visual inspection of the motor, drive components, and safety sensors, extends the service life of both the gate and the opener significantly. If your gate is running sluggishly, making unusual sounds, or failing to complete a full cycle, those are signs the system needs a service call before a larger repair becomes necessary.
We install, repair, and service iron gates throughout the greater New Orleans metropolitan area and the North Shore. Our service area includes:
Not sure if we cover your area? Call 504-732-0066 and we will confirm during the call.
A swing gate is mounted on hinges and pivots open in an arc, requiring clear space in front of the gate for that arc to travel. A sliding gate moves parallel to the fence line and requires no driveway clearance in front of the gate. The right choice depends on how much driveway depth is available. Narrow New Orleans lots with little depth between the street and a garage or parking pad are often better served by a sliding configuration.
Sliding gates and cantilever gates are almost always the correct answer for narrow New Orleans driveways. Both slide parallel to the fence line so they do not need any swing clearance in front of the gate. A cantilever gate has the added advantage of no bottom track, which reduces debris and water accumulation. Many shotgun-house lots in Marigny, Treme, Bywater, and Mid-City are well suited to these configurations.
A basic manual iron gate typically ranges from $1,200 to $4,000 depending on panel size and design. An automatic gate system with an opener generally runs $2,380 to $8,000 or more depending on the gate type, material, and entry system selected. Cantilever configurations and video intercom systems push toward the higher end of these ranges. We provide free written estimates with no obligation after an on-site measurement.
An automatic gate uses a motor connected to the gate panel through either an articulating arm for swing gates or a chain or rack drive system for sliding gates. When you activate the gate using a remote, keypad, intercom, or other entry device, the motor drives the gate through its full travel and stops at the open or closed position. Safety sensors monitor the gate path and stop or reverse movement if an obstruction is detected.
In many cases, yes. Whether an existing gate can be motorized depends on the structural condition of the gate frame and posts, the type and configuration of the existing hardware, and the width and weight of the panel. We assess existing gates during free consultations and can tell you whether your current gate is a good candidate for motorization or whether a new gate would be a more reliable long-term investment.
Most automatic gate systems include a manual release mechanism that allows the gate to be operated by hand during a power outage so residents are never locked in or out. Battery backup systems are also available and recommended for New Orleans properties given the frequency of outages during hurricane season. A battery backup keeps the motor operational for hours or days after grid power is lost.
Whether a permit is required depends on the gate type, property location, and whether the property is in a locally designated historic district. Properties subject to HDLC review require design approval before a building permit is issued by the City of New Orleans Department of Safety and Permits. We advise on permit requirements specific to your address during the consultation.
Installation timeline depends on design complexity, fabrication queue, and permit requirements. Simple installations can move quickly once the gate is fabricated. More complex designs, cantilever systems, or properties requiring HDLC review take longer. We provide a realistic timeline estimate during the consultation so you can plan accordingly.
All three primary materials, iron, powder-coated steel, and aluminum, can perform well in New Orleans. Aluminum is the lowest-maintenance option because it does not rust. Powder-coated steel resists corrosion well when the coating is kept intact. Wrought iron requires periodic touch-up paint in a humid climate but offers the richest visual detail and is the traditional choice for New Orleans ironwork.
The HDLC evaluates proposed gate designs for compatibility with the historic character of the district. Custom ornamental iron is almost always approvable because it aligns with the city ironwork traditions. Designs with scrollwork, finials, and panel proportions that match existing ironwork on the property tend to move through review without issue. Materials like vinyl, raw aluminum with modern profiles, and chain-link are typically not approved in historic districts.
A cantilever gate is a type of sliding gate that operates without a bottom track. The gate panel is supported by rollers mounted at the top of the support posts, allowing it to slide open while floating above the ground. This eliminates the bottom track that can collect dirt, debris, and standing water, a meaningful advantage in New Orleans where drainage is a chronic concern and yards can hold water after heavy rain. Cantilever gates also work well on sloped driveways and uneven terrain.
A well-designed driveway gate adds measurable value by improving curb appeal, increasing perceived security, and providing a privacy feature that buyers in many New Orleans neighborhoods actively look for. Custom iron gates read as a quality, permanent improvement. The value contribution is highest when the gate design is cohesive with the property existing architecture and ironwork and when the automation system is well-maintained and fully functional.
Looking to complement your new gate with other ironwork on the property? We also install and fabricate:
“Great job on the iron gates! I can’t believe they finished installing the iron gate and repairing our fence. A lot of my neighbors recommended Big Easy Iron Works and I can see why they trust them so much. Very professional workers came and the owner checked up from time to time. Great experience.”
– Vanessa Johnson“You have my respect for Big Easy Iron Works! Thank you for staying true to your word about quality service. They helped install our new iron fence and it exceeded my expectations to be honest. They explained everything they would be doing every day of the job. I really recommend them for those living in New Orleans. Hire them for your fencing needs.”
– Billy Anderson“I contacted Big Easy Iron Works because most of my neighbors recommended them to me. I am satisfied with the time that they took to finish the work repairs with my wood fence. The fences they placed turned out nice and they looked like they would last longer. I would also recommend them to my friends in New Orleans.”
– Shirley Oaks
625 Celeste St Suite 504-E,