How to Make a Wooden Gate Level on Concrete

Keeping the gate slightly above the concrete stops any sticking.

A wooden gate lends a decorative touch to any fence, whether the fence itself is wood, metal or vinyl. The gate attaches to the fence posts at a convenient entry point to the fenced area, which may be a garden, pool, dog run or the yard itself. Some entry points are over a concrete surface, like a walkway, patio or pool decking. The wood gate must sit level just above the concrete without rubbing or pressing against its surface. Installing the gate properly ensures that it doesn't leave too large a gap, while opening and closing smoothly.

Things You'll Need

• Level
• Jackhammer
• Pre-mixed concrete
• Wood board, 1-by-1 board, 2-feet long
• 2 gate hinges
• 2-inch wood screws
• Electric screwdriver

Instructions

1. Hold a spirit level against the top of the gate and remove the gate if it is not level. The gate hinges feature screws that hold the gate to the fence post. Remove each screw and set to the side.

2. Set the level lengthwise against the post that supports the gate. If the post is not level, the gate leans to one side. You must remove the concrete from the post hole with a jackhammer, reset the fence post and add new concrete.

3. Set a wood board 1-inch by 1-inch by 2-feet on top of the concrete. Lay the board across the cement between the fence posts. Place the wood gate on top of the board and line up with the fence post. The wood ensures proper spacing between the bottom of the gate and the surface of the concrete all the way across.

4. Place a gate hinge 2 inches down from the top of the gate. Screw 2-inch wood screws through each hole in the hinge and into the gate. Attach a second hinge 2 inches from the bottom of the gate, using the same screws.

5. Open the hinges and lay each one flat against the fence post. Screw 2-inch wood screws through the hinge and into the wood. Each hinge should have 2 holes or more that require screws. Screw them in with the electric screwdriver until they sit flush with the surface of the hinge plate.

6. Attach the locking mechanism for the gate onto the opposite end of the gate and a second fence post. The mechanism should have two holes on each piece. Use 2-inch wood screws on each piece. Remove the bottom board from under the gate and it should sit level above the cement.

Tips & Warnings

• If you have a gate that just barely scrapes against cement, remove the hardware and lay the gate flat. Sand the bottom of the gate where there are signs it is rubbing until you have removed enough wood for the fence to clear the concrete. Re-attach to the fence posts, setting the gate 1 inch above the top of the cement. The space keeps the gate from scrapping against the ground.