Fences - How to Build a Fence Gate
About How to Build a Fence Gate
Fences in General
A fence is known to have multiple functions. Be it simple or fancy, a fence adds definition to your home’s landscape, increases privacy, provides security, and controls your children and pets from wandering out. Using a fence as a decorative feature can embellish your landscape and add value to your home.
There are many different types of fences. Chain-link, panel, picket and ranch style are just to name a few. Most of the installation techniques are very similar, but before jumping to the installation phase, it’s advised to check with your city or residential association to find out if there are any restrictions on fence and gate construction. Also, make sure you know exactly where your property lines are. A surveyor can be called in to stake the corner of your lot before getting started. Adding a Fence Gate
No fence is complete without a gate, whether it’s there to add grace to your front yard or simply to lead visitors to your home’s entrance. Fence gates are not difficult to build; in fact it would make a perfect weekend project.
A fence gate can be built in different dimensions and coverings depending on its function. A high and solid gate should be used for privacy and security, while a low and open gate should be used to give a friendly feel. The materials chosen will alter the cost of building a fence gate. Building with construction-grade redwood, pine, fir or cedar, a 3x4 foot gate will cost about $75 if mounted with basic hardware. If teak with bronze hardware is used, the cost will reach hundreds of dollars minimum. The following tools are needed when building a fence gate:
- Tape measure
- Handsaw
- Circular saw
- Screwdriver
- Hammer
- Drill
- Drill-bit set
- Hinges and mounting screws or bolts
- Gate latch set
Building Steps
Next are a few, easy steps to install a fence gate:
1. Mark and cut the frame pieces 2 inches narrower than the distance between the gate posts
2. Work on a flat surface to assemble the outer frame. Use the cut horizontal pieces first, then cut and install the vertical pieces to fit between the horizontals. Drill through the crosspieces into the ends of the uprights. Fasten the resulting butt joints with construction adhesive and 3-inch screws. Once the frame is assembled measure from corner to corner on both diagonals to be sure your frame is square. If the measurements aren't exactly the same, adjust the frame until they are. 3. Brace the frame by installing a piece of lumber running diagonally from corner to corner. Cut the brace to size with a handsaw. For maximum strength, the brace should run from the bottom of the hinge side to the top of the latch side. Position the brace, drill pilot holes and fasten it with adhesive and 2 1/2-inch screws. Otherwise, you can install 90-degree steel brackets in the corners of your gate frame to prevent floppiness.
4. Cover the finished frame with your chosen cladding material by nailing it to the frame. At this stage, you can paint or stain the gate. Other options are to apply a clear preservative or to let it weather naturally.
5. Mount the finished gate. Ensure ground clearance and that the hinges are aligned so they don’t bind. Drill pilot holes and screw the hinges to the gate.
On a final note, if you’d like to add a latch, be sure to choose one that allows you to open your gate from both inside and outside, especially if your gate is too tall to reach over. Keep in mind, hardware used should be of superior quality in order to last a long while.
