How to Construct Large Wooden Swinging Gates
The most challenging part of building a fence is the gate. They experience more wear and tear, and are prone to sagging and coming out of square. If you need an odd-sized gate or want to save money, build your own gate. A well-built gate with properly installed hardware will last for years. Does this Spark an idea?
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Things You'll Need
- Tape measure
- 2x4 boards
- Circular saw
- 10d nails
- Hinges
- Wood screws
- Level
Instructions
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1
Measure the opening for the gate. To allow for clearance and hardware, make the gate 1 1/2 inch smaller than the opening.
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2
Cut four pieces of 2x4 with a 45 degree angle on the ends, two for the top and bottom, and two for the sides.
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3
Nail the pieces together. To be sure the frame is square, measure from the bottom left corner to the top right corner and measure from the bottom right corner to the top left corner. These measurements should be the same.
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4
Add a cross member that goes from a top corner diagonally to a bottom corner. Cut the ends at an angle to sit flush with the outside frame of the gate. For a large gate, add another cross member to form an x. Cut it into two pieces so the original cross member will fit in between.
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5
Screw the hinges to the gate. Hold the gate in position so the top of the gate is even with the top of the post, and the bottom of the gate does not touch the ground. Put one screw in the top hinge, and put the level on the top of the gate. Make the gate level, and attach all hinges to the post.
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6
Screw the latch hardware to the gate, then attach the catch hardware to the post to match the gate hardware.
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Tips & Warnings
The gate posts must be solid, so use concrete when setting them. Be sure the gate is supported by the hinges, not the latch.
References
- Photo Credit Please shut the gate image by Octavius from Fotolia.com
