A 6-Foot Dark Sequoia Vinyl Fence & Automatic Gate in San Fernando, CA

The Challenge: Balancing Total Privacy with Daily Utility

Every property has a unique "flow." For this client, the primary goal was twofold: creating a backyard sanctuary that felt entirely private while managing a high-traffic driveway.

When we surveyed the site, we identified three critical environmental factors:

1. Thermal Expansion: High local temperatures cause cheaper vinyl to warp.
2. Wind Load: A 6-foot solid "privacy" wall acts like a sail; the posts must be engineered for lateral pressure.
3. Space Constraints: A traditional swing gate would have obstructed the driveway's turning radius.

The Solution: A Triple-Gate High-Privacy System

1. The 6-Foot Dark Sequoia Full-Privacy Perimeter

For the main run, we utilized tongue-and-groove Dark Sequoia vinyl panels.

• Why it Works: Unlike lighter colors, Dark Sequoia offers a rich, wood-like aesthetic without the maintenance of staining.
• The Installation Detail: We set our posts deeper than the industry standard and used reinforced bottom rails to prevent "sag" over time, a common issue I see in "big box" DIY kits.

2. The 16-Foot Automatic Sliding Gate (The Workhorse)

To address the driveway access, we installed a 16-foot sliding gate.

• The Engineering: By sliding parallel to the fence line, we preserved every inch of the driveway.
• Convenience: The system was paired with four pre-programmed remotes.
• Pro Tip: If you're installing an automatic gate, always ensure your motor has a battery backup. In my experience, there's nothing more frustrating than a power outage trapping your car inside.

3. Structural Integrity: The Aluminum Frame Single Gate

We installed a 6-foot pedestrian gate using a full privacy design, but with a hidden secret: an internal aluminum frame.

• The Problem: Vinyl-only gates are notorious for "dropping" or "dragging" because the material is flexible.
• The Calcoast Way: By "wedding" the vinyl to an aluminum frame, we ensure the latch aligns perfectly every time, regardless of how much the ground shifts or the sun beats down.

4. Custom 3-Foot Semi-Privacy Picket Gate

For the side garden, the client didn't need a wall; they needed a boundary. We designed a custom 3-foot picket gate.

• The Benefit: This allows for essential airflow to the garden beds while creating a visual "stop" for pets and children.

Key Takeaways

• Dark Sequoia Vinyl provides a high-end look with zero maintenance, but requires professional-grade UV inhibitors.
• Aluminum Frames are non-negotiable for large vinyl gates to prevent structural failure.
• Automatic Sliding Gates are the superior choice for narrow driveways or properties with limited swing space.
• Airflow Matters: Use semi-privacy designs in garden areas to prevent stagnant heat.