Wooden garden gates are multi-functional, adding security while both allowing and restricting access to your property. Here we explain how to hang a garden gate but if you are yet to choose one, our previous guide to garden gates will help.
Step One – Measuring for a gate
Whether you are installing a new gate into a pre-existing space, or calculating the space needed for a new gate, correct measurements are key; the old adage ‘measure twice, cut once’ has never been truer than when installing a gate! At Witham Timber, the measurements online are exact measurements which have to be included alongside the width of the gate post(s) plus a margin of 10-20 mm between the post and the gate to allow the gate to swing open and to give room for the timber to contract or expand under different weather conditions. When calculating the height of gate required, adjust to ensure the gate will not drag or catch on uneven ground (25mm is sufficient for mud and cobblestones but this can be reduced to 10mm for concrete ground).
Step Two – Wooden gate posts
Our wooden gate posts are available with a pyramid top or a flat top and are manufactured from pressure treated softwood. We recommend the flat top post as a batten when hanging a gate directly to the side of a building. As the posts need to take the weight of the gate, they should be installed securely in a hole with either concrete or postcrete, with one third of the post below the ground and two thirds above it.
Step Three - Fitting hinges to a gate
Garden gate hinges are normally attached to the gate’s diagonal cross brace beam and where there are two cross brace beams, the gate can be hung on the left or right. Place the gate on the ground, or other surface such as a workbench, ensuring it is stable and flat. Attach the hinges so that the hinge part overhangs the gate to create a gap to allow the gate to open freely. Our galvanised garden gate hinges are available as sets, comprising garden gate hinges and latches, or as individual hinges and straight bands, and for curve-top gates, we offer a curved gate set.
Step Four – Hanging the gate
Offer the gate to the opening, checking carefully that there is enough clearance for the gate to function properly. Use a piece of wood the same size as the gap you are leaving between the bottom of the gate and the ground, as a support for the gate. Once the gate is in the correct position, use a spirit level to check it will be hanging straight. Screw the hinges to the gate post, top hinge first and then bottom hinge, before removing the support timber. Check again with a spirit level and if the gate has dropped slightly, readjust the hinges, before screwing the middle hinge in place.
Step Five – Garden gate hardware
Our range of garden gate ironwork includes garden gate sets and hinges, as well as a choice of fasteners and garden gate accessories. An auto gate catch is suitable for small hand gates that you can reach over and should be positioned at the top of the gate, while a ring latch is ideal for taller gates that you can’t easily reach over and should be attached in the centre of the gate. We also supply a range of gate bolts for added security.
At Witham Timber, our range of wooden garden gates includes something for everyone. Choose from a tongue and groove gate or a closeboard gate, or perhaps you prefer a gate to match a decorative fence panel? All our gates are available in a wide selection of sizes and where you have a non-standard opening, we offer a bespoke gate service. Simply call us today on 01205 359188 or email us at sales@withamtimber.co.uk and we will be happy to help you.