How to Build a Gate
Having a gate that is well built and smoothly functioning makes entry and exit to a private space even more rewarding. Whether to keep children or pets in or unwanted animals and neighbors out, a good gate can make all the difference. Constructing a proper gate is a task that should take very little time and effort. The steps involved are easy to understand and execute.
Choosing a Material
A metal gate is sturdy and can be easily installed as a pre-assembled unit. Wood is a softer material both visually and physically. Choosing the right wood for the region is important - if termites or a wet climate are involved, a treated wood is best. Also make sure that the wood has been milled recently, as older treated wood contains toxic chemicals.
Think about Layout
Some people enjoy a waist high gate while others need a six foot high gate. This tutorial covers both - the same method applies. Width can also vary with a single swing door gate or a double door. Most people, however, are used to a 36″ entry way. This measurement is from the width of the posts’ inner side posts. If you are going to go with a shorter gate, a shallower hole can be used. However, to get a deeper hole will offer better stiffness and less movement - especially if you’re going to use that gate a lot. Use a two foot by one foot hole for your posts - this means you’re aiming for a six foot high fence with a post eight feet long. To stiffen the gate, attach a header board across the top of the two posts [or just underground].
The All Important Door
Before you start making your door remember that there will be some measurements to remember. The two main measurements are the distance between the gate and the post and the distance between the ground and the gate. If the gate will be two inches off the ground to allow for uneven ground and the final post height is six feet, the gate needs to be two inches shorter then the posts. The gate width needs to be about an inch shorter then the opening width so the gate can swing freely.
Make your rectangular frame with a horizontal cross piece in the middle for stiffness. Remember to measure from corner to corner in both directions as you nail (with galvanized nails) the top and bottom cross-members to complete the frame. Each measurement should be the same. This means the door will end up square and will swing properly. Then attach the face boards, using a nail to space the boards evenly. This will give you proper spacing and also let some wind through, minimizing stress to the door.
About the Hinges
Attach the hinges in three places: top, middle and bottom. Use the cross-members as a ’structural point’ for reducing stress on the door and post. As you install the door use shims (support items) on the ground so you can make sure the door is even and level for easy swinging. Make sure you know which way you want the door to swing before you screw it on.