How to Brace a Gate for a Deck

Bracing a gate reinforces its joints and keeps it from sagging.

Installing a fence and gate around a wooden deck not only increases security, but bars entry into the enclosed space and contains children and pets. Bracing the gate reinforces its wood boards and keeps them from sagging, so the outdoor structure lasts many years. To brace a wooden deck gate, secure two horizontal boards over its back, along a diagonal board in between, thereby forming a "Z. Although you can brace outdoor wooden gates once you construct them, it is best to do so during assembly.

Things You'll Need

• Wood boards
• Sandpaper
• Measuring tape
• 2-by-4-inch lumber
• Handsaw
• Drill and drill bit
• Galvanized builder's screws

Instructions

1. Arrange the vertical boards for the gate in their final placement on a level surface. Ensure the boards are the desired size and shape, and sand their edges so they are smooth. Position the boards face down on the surface so you can attach the brace boards along the back.

2. Measure the width along the span of the vertical boards and cut two identical lengths of 2-by-4-inch lumber to the exact measurement. Sand the edges of the two lengths until smooth.

3. Lay the two identical lengths horizontally over the vertical boards. Position one several inches below the top and the other several inches above the ends of the boards. Pre-drill a row of pilot holes through each horizontal board to penetrate the wooden boards below. Ensure the drill bit you use is slightly smaller than the screw shank.

4. Insert builder's screws into the holes to join the horizontal lumber to the vertical boards. Measure the space between the upper inner horizontal rail and the lower inner rail. Cut a length of lumber to the exact size.

5. Position this board diagonally between the horizontal rails, ensuring it forms a tight fit. Mark excess length along its corners and cut over the lines so the board fits snugly inside, and the three boards form a "Z."

6. Secure the corners of the diagonal brace to the upper and lower horizontal rails, using galvanized screws. Also insert a screw into the brace that penetrates the wooden board directly below.

References

• BuildEazy: Gates
• This Old House; Sagging Gate; Tom Silva
• "Mother Earth News"; How to Build Long-Lasting Gates; Troy Griepentrog; 2007
• Ideas for Deck Designs: Wood Deck Design -- Project 1