It is possible to automate almost any entrance gates, however the gates must be manufactured to a fairly high standard of specification to withstand the extra forces with the automation.
If you order wooden entrance gates with electric operation as a new package the gates will be manufactured with the electric motor drive in mind and sometimes reinforcement sections built in.
The design and weight of the gates are another major factor for automation, as well as the size and potential wind loading on the gate leaves when closed. On a new set of wooden gates this would all be discussed and specified correctly before installation began with the correct motors for the weight and size of the gates used.

Properly specified with a recommended hardwood timber species, timber gates should be relatively easy to keep maintained. Softwood is best avoided, especially on larger gates as this does need a lot of maintenance and is subject to rot and warping in the UK climate.
The best entrance timber gates are usually in Accoya and Iroko - excellent for the durability and longevity.

Accoya is timber which has been especially treated and it can be painted or stained to suit your requirements . Iroko is a very oily timber and used extensively in the marine world and is best when oiled to keep its natural and beautiful appearance. It can be painted with specific wood stains if required.

Both types of hardwood timber can last many years - well over 20 years and far more if keep cleaned and treated. Accoya can last up to 50 years.