How to Fit a Garden Gate

Installing a garden gate is a practical and visually appealing way to enhance the security and charm of your outdoor space. Whether you're looking to create a private sanctuary or simply define the boundaries of your garden, a well-fitted gate is both functional and stylish. This guide walks you through the step-by-step process of fitting a garden gate, from preparing your materials to making the final adjustments. With the right tools, materials, and a bit of patience, you can achieve a sturdy and professional-looking result that will stand the test of time.

Tools and Materials Needed

Tools:
Tape measure
Drill and drill driver
Spirit level
Screwdriver
Adjustable spanner
Fencing spade or shuvholer (for digging post holes)
Pencil

Materials:
Garden gate
Screws
Security bolt
Hinges
Latch
Gate posts or wall plates

Step-by-Step Installation Guide

Preparation

Ensure the gate frame is the correct size, typically 20mm wider than the gate to allow for expansion and contraction. Check that the posts are level using a spirit level.

Decide the direction in which the gate will open, usually into the property.

Setting Up Posts

For light gates, use posts about 100mm square and 610mm longer than the gate height. Heavier gates require thicker posts.

Place the posts so their tops are 50mm higher than the top of the gate, leaving a 5mm gap on either side for easy movement.

Installing Hinges

Attach hinges to the gate. For gates with double diagonal supports, hinges can be applied to any side; otherwise, place them on the side with the bottom of the diagonal support.

Mark screw positions on the hinges and drill pilot holes before securing them with screws.

Positioning the Gate

Use timber pieces to raise the gate slightly above ground level, ensuring there is no obstruction when opening or closing.

Place the gate into the frame, maintaining even spacing on both sides.

Securing Hinges to Frame

Initially, use only a couple of screws per hinge to ensure proper alignment and function before fully securing all screws.

Fitting Latch and Lock

Install the latch or lock according to manufacturer instructions, ensuring all parts are correctly positioned on both the gate and frame.

Final Adjustments

Remove any temporary supports and check that the gate swings freely without catching on obstacles. Adjust hinge positions if necessary to ensure the gate is plumb and level.

Concrete Posts (if required)

If using concrete for post stability, dig post holes deep enough for a 50mm clearance gap beneath the gate. Use timber props to hold posts in place while concrete sets for at least 48 hours.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which way do you hang a garden gate?

Typically, a garden gate is hung to swing into the property rather than outwards. This is done for safety and to ensure it doesn’t obstruct public walkways or roads. The hinges should be mounted on the side of the gate with the bottom of the diagonal bracing pointing toward the hinges for structural support.

How much gap under a garden gate?

A garden gate should have a gap of about 50mm (2 inches) under it. This clearance ensures the gate can open and close freely without scraping against uneven ground or grass.

Can you install a gate yourself?

Yes, you can install a gate yourself with the right tools and preparation. Ensure you have the correct measurements, tools (e.g., drill, screws, hinges), and a level to ensure the gate is installed evenly. For heavy gates or if you're unsure about stability, seeking professional help may be advisable.

What is the spacing between gates?

For double gates, the spacing between the gates should allow for smooth opening and closing while preventing sagging. Leave a gap of about 5mm to 10mm (1/4 to 1/2 inch) between the gates. For a single gate, the gap between the gate and posts or walls should also be about 5mm.

How much smaller should a gate be than the opening?

A gate should typically be 10mm (1cm) narrower than the opening to allow for movement and proper alignment. This includes accounting for gaps on either side (5mm each).

Can you put a gate on concrete?

Yes, you can install a gate on concrete. Use concrete fixings or anchor bolts to secure the posts or wall plates to the concrete surface. If installing posts directly, ensure they are secured with post bases designed for concrete surfaces.

How to measure and fit a gate?

1. Measure the opening width and height where the gate will be installed. Subtract 10mm from the width for proper clearance.
2. Select a gate that matches your measurements.
3. Prepare the posts or wall plates, ensuring they are plumb (vertical) and level.
4. Hang the gate using hinges, aligning it evenly with the frame or posts.
5. Test the swing and adjust if necessary.

How much clearance does a garden gate need?

A garden gate typically requires:

• 5mm clearance on each side (total 10mm narrower than the opening).
• 50mm clearance under the gate for ground clearance.

Do I need planning permission to put in a gate?

In most cases, you do not need planning permission to install a garden gate, provided:

• It is not taller than 2 meters.
• It does not face a highway and exceed 1 meter in height.

Always check local regulations to confirm.

What is the recommended height for a gate?

The recommended height for a garden gate is typically 1.2 to 2 meters (4 to 6.5 feet), depending on the purpose (e.g., privacy or decoration) and local regulations.