Last Updated: July 2025

Driveway Bollards vs Gates: Which Is Best for Your UK Home?

Securing your driveway is a top priority, especially in areas like Surrey, where vehicle crime stands at 4.69 incidents per 1,000 people—1.18 times the UK average. But should you choose driveway bollards or gates? Both offer security, but costs and maintenance differ significantly. At Sentry Posts Solutions, a family-run, fully insured limited company with over 20 years of experience, we specialise in Sold Secure and Secure by Design certified bollards, starting at £650 for supply and fit. Gates, whilst effective, often come with higher costs and servicing fees around £300 per year. This guide compares the two, focusing on overall cost and maintenance, to help you decide. Ready to protect your driveway? Let’s dive in and get a free quote today.

Bollards vs Gates: An Overview

Driveway bollards and gates both protect your vehicle and control access, but they suit different needs. Bollards are sturdy posts—fixed, telescopic, or removable—that block unauthorised vehicles. Gates, whether manual or automatic, provide a full barrier across your driveway. In the UK, where parking disputes and vehicle theft are common, choosing the right option depends on your budget, maintenance willingness, and security needs. Here’s how they compare.

Cost Comparison

Cost is a major factor when choosing between bollards and gates. Here’s a breakdown based on initial and long-term expenses:

Our Sold Secure bollards start at £650 for supply and fit, making them a cost-effective choice compared to gates, which can cost up to £5,000 for automatic models. Over 10 years, bollards save thousands due to lower upkeep. Curious about bollard pricing? Check our options or get a quote.

Servicing and Maintenance Fees

Maintenance costs significantly impact your choice. Here’s what to expect:

• Bollards: Minimal upkeep, costing £50–£100 per year for cleaning and lock lubrication. Our galvanised steel bollards, like the Telescopic D4, resist rust, ideal for UK weather. No electrical components mean fewer repairs.
• Manual Gates: Similar maintenance to bollards (£50–£100/year for cleaning, hinge lubrication), but larger surface areas may require more frequent care.
• Automatic Gates: Require annual servicing costing around £300 (based on typical UK rates, ranging £150–£400 depending on complexity). This covers motor checks, electrical repairs, and sensor calibration, essential for reliability.

Bollards are the low-maintenance winner, saving you hundreds annually compared to automatic gates. Our team offers maintenance advice to keep costs low. Contact us to learn more.

Security and Practicality

Both options secure your driveway, but their practicality varies:

• Bollards: Sold Secure and Secure by Design certifications ensure resistance to cutting and drilling, per BS EN ISO 9001:2000 standards. Telescopic or removable bollards offer flexibility for occasional access (e.g., deliveries), ideal for Surrey’s high vehicle crime areas (4.69 incidents per 1,000).
• Gates: Provide a full barrier, deterring thieves and casual parkers. Automatic gates offer convenience but rely on power, risking failure during outages. Manual gates are secure but less practical for frequent use.

Bollards excel for targeted security without complex systems. Visit soldsecure.com or securedbydesign.com for certification details.

Aesthetics and Property Value

Both options can enhance your home’s kerb appeal:

• Bollards: Sleek, discreet designs (e.g., powder-coated finishes) complement modern or traditional homes. Our stainless steel bollards add a premium look without dominating your driveway.
• Gates: Offer a grand, imposing aesthetic, ideal for larger properties. However, they require more space and may clash with smaller driveways.

Bollards often boost property value by adding certified security, potentially lowering insurance premiums, whilst gates may appeal to buyers seeking a statement feature. Need help choosing? Our Surrey team can advise.

Why Choose Sentry Posts Solutions?

At Sentry Posts Solutions, we’re a family-run, fully insured limited company with over 20 years of experience, trusted across Surrey (e.g., Dorking, Guildford). Here’s why we’re your best choice:

• Certified Bollards: We install only Sold Secure and Secure by Design bollards for top-tier security.
• Affordable Pricing: Starting at £650 for supply and fit, we beat gate costs and maintenance.
• Expert Installation: Our team ensures compliance and durability in 2–4 hours.
• Local Knowledge: We understand Surrey’s security needs, backed by 20+ years of service.

Choose bollards for a cost-effective, low-maintenance solution. Contact us for a free site survey and quote.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are driveway bollards cheaper than gates?

Yes, bollards are generally cheaper. Our Sold Secure bollards start at £650 for supply and fit, whilst gates cost £2,000–£5,000, with £300/year servicing fees.

Which is better for security: bollards or gates?

Both offer security, but Sold Secure and Secure by Design bollards provide robust, low-maintenance protection, ideal for most UK driveways.

What are the maintenance costs for bollards vs gates?

Bollards require minimal maintenance (£50–£100/year for cleaning/lubrication), whilst automatic gates need servicing costing around £300/year.

Do bollards or gates look better?

Bollards offer a sleek, discreet look, whilst gates provide a grand aesthetic. Our bollards come in stylish finishes to suit any home.

Are bollards legal in the UK?

Yes, bollards are legal for private driveways, provided they meet local regulations. We ensure compliance for you.

Still deciding between bollards and gates? Contact Sentry Posts Solutions for a free quote and secure your UK driveway with certified, cost-effective bollards.