SUPPLIES
- Tape measure
- Screwdriver
- Hammer
- Drill
- Hinges and mounting screws
- Saw
Overview
The most important part of a fence is the gate. When you are building a gate for a wooden fence you need to be sure the gate posts can withhold the weight of the gate. It is a good idea to check with your city or home owners association to see if there are any restrictions as to the style or type of gate. We are going to be building a basic 6' high privacy fence gate.
Step 1
Determine where you want the gate to go and how wide it should be. We are going with a 3' wide gate. The gate should be spaced 3/8" plus the width of the gate.
Step 2
Dig the post holes for the gate. You want to dig deep enough so the posts are deep enough in the ground to be sturdy. A good depth to dig is 24" deep.
Step 3
Mix a batch of concrete to add to the holes. Mix the concrete according to the directions on the package. Usually this simply involves mixing a set amount of concrete and water. Check to be sure the posts are positioned correctly and upright before you pour the concrete in the holes. Allow the concrete to dry overnight.
Step 4
Cut the header to be the length from the outside of one post to the outside of the other. Use 4 x 4 lumber for the header. Make a 4" cut from each end of the header that is 2" deep. A header is used to hold the posts parallel so they cannot move and cause the gate to jam.
Step 5
Nail the header firmly to the top of the posts. Use at least two nails in each post.
Step 6
Cut two 2 x 4's 3/4" less than the length of the gap between the two gate posts. Place the 2 x 4's on the ground or a flat surface to saw them.
Step 7
Lay two of the 1 x 6 rails across a row of the 2 x 4 posts. Place one of the rails 6" down from the top of the gate board and the bottom rail 9" up from the bottom of the two gate boards. Make sure the rails are even and then nail the boards to the rails. Nail each rail to the boards so that they fit snugly together. Use at least two nails in each board for each post. This will create your gate.
Step 8
Install your gate. Turn the gate over and measure where the hinges will go. Make sure they are equal distances apart. Using a screwdriver attach the hinge sets first to the gate itself and then to each of the posts.
TIPS AND WARNINGS
- TIP : This is a very simple gate structure. You can make it more ornate if you wish by adding different types of wood or adding more cross pieces of wood to the sides. Make sure any decorative additions do not block the gate.
- WARNING : Always wear safety goggles when operating power tools.
