Could have been better…read more
I want to start by saying that I genuinely like the gate itself. It finally serves the long-awaited purpose of giving us a secure gate where we can receive packages, and the design is beautiful and the gate feels solid and well built.
That said, for a $4,500 custom gate, I was disappointed by the quality and attention to detail during the installation.
I'm writing this review after first trying to address these concerns directly with the company. I emailed the team on July 9, 2026, included photos, explained each concern in detail, and asked if we could have a conversation about a fair resolution. I never received a response. I ultimately paid the invoice, but I still feel it's important to share my experience so the company has an opportunity to learn from it.
**The measurements and installation**
The previous gate was removed, and the opening for the custom gate was measured using a large piece of cardboard and a Sharpie. At the time, I didn't think much of it because I trusted that I was working with a company that has been serving the Bay Area for four generations.
Unfortunately, the finished gate did not fit the opening as measured. During installation, the top right corner had to be cut off so the gate could be bolted into place. For a custom-built $4,500 gate, I was surprised that this was necessary. Measuring twice before fabrication could have prevented a very noticeable modification to the finished gate.
**The placement**
This is probably the part that surprised me most.
Before permanently installing the gate, I wish someone had simply taken five seconds to ask me where I wanted it positioned relative to the previous gate. Instead, it was installed in a way that leaves the previous mounting holes and wiring exposed in the brick.
I understand there may have been a reason for the placement, but this was a custom installation, and a quick conversation beforehand could have resulted in a much cleaner finished appearance. Once everything was drilled and permanently installed, that opportunity was gone.
**The holes in the decorative rings**
I designed the gate with the circular rings, so I take responsibility for the overall design. What I didn't realize was that each ring would have small holes in it.
I initially assumed these might be drainage holes, which would make sense. However, the holes are not consistently oriented throughout the gate. If they are intended for drainage, I'm concerned about water sitting inside the tubing and potentially causing rust or corrosion over time.
I'm not an expert in metal fabrication, which is exactly why I trusted the company to guide me through those details and make sure the finished product was properly constructed.
**A little context**
Please don't interpret this review as me expecting to have been standing over the installers throughout the entire process. I didn't have the bandwidth to do that, and I honestly believed I was in good hands.
At the time, I was also dealing with serious health issues affecting a family member and was simply grateful to finally be able to move forward with getting a gate after waiting a long time.
I trusted the company based on their reputation and the fact that they are a fourth-generation Bay Area business. In hindsight, I wish I had spent more time reading reviews and asking more questions before the installation.
**My overall experience**
Yes, I'm happy to finally have a security gate, and it is serving its basic purpose.
Yes, I like the design and the gate itself.
Yes, the people I interacted with were kind and professional.
But I am disappointed with the workmanship and attention to detail during the installation. I am also concerned about the exposed wiring and previous mounting holes, the cut corner, and the potential for water to collect in the tubing.
Most importantly, I gave the company an opportunity to address these concerns privately before writing this review. I sent a detailed email with photos on July 9 and never received a response. I have now paid the invoice, but I still believe these are legitimate issues worth documenting.
I'm sharing the same vphotos that I originally sent to the company so prospective customers can see exactly what I'm referring to.
**Would I recommend them? Unfortunately, no.**
I don't regret getting the gate, but for $4,500, I expected a higher level of precision, communication, and attention to the finished details of a custom installation.
