Sliding Gate Tracks

How a tracked sliding gate works

A tracked sliding gate runs on grooved wheels fixed to its bottom rail, and those wheels roll along a track laid across the opening and along the run where the gate parks. The track carries the gate’s weight, keeps it in line, and sets how smoothly and quietly it moves. At the top, guide rollers keep the gate upright as it slides.

If a ground track isn’t suitable, for example on an uneven drive or a site where debris and snow collect, a cantilever gate carries the gate on carriages set back from the opening, with no track across it.

Bolt-down or concrete-in sliding gate track?

• Bolt-down track is fixed on top of an existing concrete base or surface. It is quicker to install and easier to replace, which makes it a common choice for retrofits and repairs. The Floor Z3 and Angula Z3 tracks in this range are galvanised bolt-down tracks in 3m lengths.
• Concrete-in track is set into the concrete when the base is laid, so it sits flush with the surface and is held along its whole length. The Heavy Z3 concrete-in sliding gate track suits new installations where the gate runs over a finished drive.

Whichever you choose, the track needs to run on a solid, level base for its full length. A track that dips or twists makes the gate harder to move, wears the wheels quickly and can strain a gate motor.

Match the track to your wheels

Track and wheels work as a pair. Each sliding gate wheel has a groove shaped for a particular track profile and size, so choose the wheel and track together. Several of our wheels are listed for a specific track width, such as the 16mm track variants, and the Ibbi Z3 track comes in 16mm and 20mm to suit.

When you replace worn wheels on an existing gate, measure the track profile and width first. A wheel that doesn’t match the track will wear quickly and can derail the gate.

Our sliding gate track range

• Ibbi Z3 track in 16mm and 20mm, with the Rapida fixing plate for securing Ibbi track to the base.
• Floor Z3 and Angula Z3 galvanised bolt-down track, supplied in 3m lengths.
• Heavy Z3 concrete-in sliding gate track for new bases.
• Sistema Z3 track in 3m lengths, with Sistema and New Omega track joint pins and joint brackets for heavy track to make longer runs.

Complete the sliding gate

A smooth-running gate needs more than track and wheels. Browse our full sliding gate hardware range for U channels, travel stops, meeting points, gate keeps and sliding gate locks. For exposed or coastal sites, see stainless steel sliding gate hardware.

Planning to automate the gate? A sliding gate motor drives the gate through gear rack fixed along the gate, and a straight, level track helps the motor run within its limits. Our install planning guides cover the wider project.

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between bolt-down and concrete-in gate track?

Bolt-down track is fixed on top of an existing concrete base, so it is quicker to fit and easy to replace. Concrete-in track is set into the base when it is laid and sits flush with the surface. Both need a solid, level base along their full length.

How do I choose the right track for my sliding gate wheels?

Match the track profile and width to the groove in the wheels, as each wheel is made for a particular track. Some wheels in our range are listed for a specific track width, such as 16mm. If you are replacing parts, measure the existing track before ordering.

How long should a sliding gate track be?

The track has to cover the opening plus the full distance the gate travels to park, so it is usually about twice the width of the opening. Our tracks come in 3m lengths, joined with track joint pins and brackets for longer runs. Allow for any travel stops at each end.

Does a sliding gate track need to be perfectly level?

Yes, as near level as possible along its whole length. A track that slopes lets the gate roll on its own, and one that dips or twists makes it stiff and wears the wheels. On sloping drives, a cantilever gate is often the better option.

Can I use this track on an automated sliding gate?

Tracked sliding gates are commonly automated with a sliding gate motor and gear rack. A straight, level track and matched wheels keep the gate moving freely, which helps the motor work within its limits. Check the motor’s maximum gate weight against your gate before you buy.