ALEKO 12x6 feet Milan Dual Swing Driveway Gate with Automatic Opener, Galvanized Steel Security Fence Gate

Why I chose the Milan gate

I wanted a clean, modern driveway gate that wouldn’t turn into a maintenance project after the first rainy season. The Milan dual-swing gate checked the right boxes: hot-dipped galvanized steel, powder-coated finish, and a straightforward, minimalist profile that doesn’t fight the architecture. The fact that it ships as a complete package—two 12x6-foot gate panels, posts, hinge hardware, and a dual-swing opener with safety and access components—made it especially appealing as a single-purchase solution.

Design and build quality

Out of the crate, the Milan gate feels purpose-built rather than decorative. The welded frame is rigid with no racking, and the 4-point welds are tidy and consistent. The horizontal bars give it a sleek look, but what stood out for me was the structural stiffness—under load and during actuation, the panels don’t chatter or twist. The included LM114 5/8-inch hinge J-bolts are appropriately heavy-duty and offer enough adjustability to get the leaves plumb and aligned without drama.

The finish is a highlight. Hot-dipped galvanization under a powder-coat is the right pairing for outdoor steel, and it shows in the uniform coating and the confidence it inspires for long-term corrosion resistance. After installation and a few weather cycles, I’m not seeing any premature chalking, thin spots, or orange freckles around welds or corners.

Aesthetically, the Milan is restrained and modern. The flat top line is clean, and the horizontal bar spacing strikes a balance between visibility and presence. It doesn’t fully block the view from the street, but it creates a clear perimeter and a strong visual deterrent without looking fortress-like.

What’s in the kit

The package is genuinely complete for the gate and basic automation:

• Two gate panels and two posts
• Four hinge J-bolts
• Dual-swing metal gate opener and actuator arms
• Photocell sensor
• Wired pushbutton
• Metal keypad box
• Wireless backlit keypad

That combination covers both safety and access control out of the box. The keypad and pushbutton give you fixed-point control, and the photocell adds a crucial safety layer to reduce risk during closure. You will still need concrete for the posts, conduit for power/low-voltage runs, and mounting hardware for any auxiliary brackets or backer plates depending on your columns or surface.

Installation experience

Installing a dual-swing gate is a project. It’s manageable for a skilled DIYer with the right tools, but you should plan for at least a weekend and recruit a second set of hands. Here’s how my process went:

• Posts and footings: I set the posts in concrete with generous footing depth and made sure they were dead plumb in both axes. Swing gates are unforgiving of slop; a small lean multiplies into alignment headaches later.
• Hinge setup: The J-bolts give you adjustment latitude. I dry-fit the panels, fine-tuned both vertical and horizontal alignment, and only then tightened everything down. A long level and patience pay off here.
• Opener mounting: Mounting the actuator brackets at the correct distances is critical for smooth motion. I marked pivot points carefully and pre-drilled through the steel with appropriate bits. Once set, the arms moved the leaves without binding across the arc.
• Wiring and safety: I ran low-voltage lines in conduit from the control box to the photocell and wired pushbutton, then placed the photocell at a height that reliably catches bumpers and legs. The wireless keypad pairs quickly and the backlight is genuinely useful at night.
• Limits and tuning: Initial setup involved setting open/close limits, testing obstruction response, and adjusting closing force. Once dialed in, the motion was controlled and consistent.

Expect to lift and hold awkward loads during assembly. Two people make a big difference when positioning the panels and threading the J-bolts through. If your driveway has slope, plan the swing direction and clearance carefully, as level changes can create unexpected fouling.

Day-to-day operation

In use, the Milan gate opens and closes with a measured, authoritative motion—neither rushed nor pokey. The actuator arms engage smoothly, and once the limits are set, they repeat reliably. Noise is present, as with any mechanical opener, but it’s in the acceptable range for a residential setting and quieter than chain-driven systems I’ve worked with.

The wireless keypad has a comfortable layout and the backlight is bright enough without being glaring. The wired pushbutton inside the property is a small convenience that turns out to be a big quality-of-life improvement; no fumbling for a remote when you’re on foot. The photocell has been reliable in avoiding nuisance closures when pets or kids are nearby, which I consider non-negotiable for a family property.

Security and privacy

This setup raises both the perceived and practical security of a driveway. While the horizontal bars don’t provide true visual privacy, the gate establishes perimeter control and reduces casual walk-ins or turnarounds. The automated access controls—keypad outside, pushbutton inside—work well for everyday use without creating friction for household members.

If full privacy is your goal, you’ll likely want to add slats or a secondary screen behind the bars. As shipped, the Milan prioritizes minimalist design and sightlines over total concealment.

Durability and maintenance

So far, the finish has resisted early wear, and the galvanization/powder combo is exactly what I’d want in a coastal or four-season climate. Hinges take grease well and don’t squeak under load. I recommend:

• Wiping down hinges and actuator arms quarterly
• Greasing the hinge pivots per the manufacturer’s intervals
• Checking limit settings and fasteners after the first month of operation and again at six months
• Keeping the photocell lenses clean for reliable detection

These are low-effort tasks that pay off in longevity and smooth performance.

What could be better

• Installation effort: While not unusual for this category, this is not a “one-afternoon” job. Budget time and muscle.
• Documentation density: The instructions are clear, but I would have appreciated more callouts for sloped-driveway scenarios and an at-a-glance checklist for mounting distances.
• Accessory options: The included keypad and pushbutton cover most needs, but if you prefer handheld remotes or app control, plan on adding those separately depending on your opener’s compatibility.

None of these are dealbreakers; they’re just realities of installing a proper dual-swing gate system.

Who it’s for

• Homeowners seeking a modern, corrosion-resistant metal gate with included automation
• Driveways that benefit from a clear perimeter without going fully opaque
• DIYers comfortable with concrete, leveling, drilling steel, and low-voltage wiring—or anyone willing to hire out the install and enjoy the end result

Who should think twice: if you need a plug-and-play solution with minimal tools or you’re on a strict weekend timeline with no help available, consider professional installation from the start.

Practical tips

• Take the time to get the posts absolutely plumb; it saves hours later.
• Dry-fit panels before pouring the second post if your layout allows; confirming swing clearance early prevents surprises.
• Use conduit for all low-voltage runs to protect wiring from weather and yard work.
• Place the photocell where it can “see” bumpers and smaller pets—mid-vehicle height works well.
• Recheck all fasteners after the first week of use.

Final recommendation

I recommend the Milan dual-swing gate for anyone who wants a sturdy, well-finished steel gate with integrated automation and a clean, contemporary look. The package is thoughtfully complete, the build quality is solid from hinges to welds, and the galvanization plus powder coat provides the kind of durability I look for in outdoor metalwork. Installation is involved but straightforward if you approach it methodically. If you’re comfortable with the project scope—or willing to bring in an installer—you’ll end up with a reliable, good-looking gate that enhances security and daily convenience without demanding constant attention.