Here at AutoGate Systems we have built several designs in aluminum, using square tube as framework, with either solid bar or tubular pickets, cast finials, cast or formed scrollwork. This has proven successful, especially near the beach, or on large width gate panels. Aluminum tube is available in many odd rectangular shapes, with architectural (square) corners. We have built gates of aluminum designed to look like wood gates, without all the bracing and gussets that wood gates require, using 3” x 5” rectangle tube and 1 1/2” round balusters. Even the finish was applied with a brush, so as to give the appearance of grain. Only a rap with the knuckle will give it away. This gate is far lighter than it’s wooden counterpart, will never sag, and is relatively easy to repair if damaged. (!) On gates like this, we incorporate a steel member inside the hinge side up right, so there is no through-bolting through the aluminum tube.