After you have built a fence and left an opening for a gate, you can use a section of the fence to make a gate that will match the fence. Except for the gate having a latch, the piece you use for the gate will appear to be just another fence section. In preparation for the gate, you will need an opening between two fence posts that is 5 feet or smaller.
Instructions
1. Measure the opening between the two fence posts. Subtract an inch from this measurement. This is the width of the gate panel you need. For instance, if the opening between the posts is 5 feet, subtract 1 inch. You will need to cut the gate panel to 4 feet 11 inches.
2. Make a chalk mark on the gate panel from the top to the bottom to ensure a straight cut. Use the saw to cut the gate panel to 4 feet 11 inches. Lay the cut panel on a table. You will have a 4-foot-11-inch gate panel with a top rail and a bottom rail.
3. Measure from the bottom of the top rail to the top of the bottom rail on the left side, and then on the right side. Cut one 2-by-4 for the left side and one for the right side. Use eight 2-inch screws to attach the 2-by-4s at the edge of the gate panel between the top and bottom rail on each side. Use two screws to attach the bottoms of the 2-by-4s and two screws to attach the tops of the 2-by-4s to the top and bottom rails.
4. Measure diagonally between the bottom of the top rail where the 2-by-4 and top rail meet on the latch end to the top of the bottom rail where the 2-by-4 and bottom rail meet. Add 1 inch to the measurement. Cut a 2-by-4 for this measurement. On one end of the 2-by-4, make a 45-degree cut on one end of the 2-by-4 so it will sit flush on top of the bottom rail.
5. Place the board up to the gate panel with the angled side resting on the rail. Use a pencil to mark the 45-degree cut on the other end of the 2-by-4. Make the angle cut. Use two 2-inch screws to attach the bottom of the 2-by-4 to the bottom rail, and two 2-inch screws to attach the 2-by-4 to the top rail.
6. Attach the hinges from the latch kit to the top and bottom rails on the end of the gate panel opposite to the latch. The pointed side of the latch is attached to the panel.
7. Place the gate panel up to the opening. Place the scrap pieces of 2-by-4 under the gate panel to hold it up to the height you need. The bottom rail and the top rails should be even with the bottom and top rails of the fence panels on either side. Have someone hold the gate in place.
8. Fold the square part of the hinge over so it is on the fence post. Use the drill to screw in one 2-inch screw on the top hinge and one 2-inch screw in one hole on the bottom hinge. Open and close the gate to make sure it is flush and level. Then screw in another 2-inch screw on the top hinge and one 2-inch screw in the bottom hinge.
9. Attach the latch to the fence post and top rail on the gate panel, using the screws that come with the kit.
Related posts
So you have the chain link fence almost done but you now have the gate left to hang. If you had no problems putting the fence together, attaching the gate will be a breeze. What you want is to fin...
Wire mesh is a lightweight fencing option.If you need to fence in an area for a garden or a small animal enclosure, an inexpensive and easy-to-build wire mesh fence may be your best option. You ca...
Build a 2 X 4 Gate for a Wire FenceA well-constructed wire mesh fence can be both functional and attractive. Wire mesh fencing is a popular and inexpensive solution to containing pets and keeping...
Remove and install chain-link gates with ease.A gate in a chain-link fence offers a convenient way to enter and exit your yard or other secure areas around your home. A damaged gate, however, can...
Dog penIt is important to have a dog pen gate that prevents your dog from escaping. Some latches are easy for a clever dog to open and you may find him wandering the neighborhood. Gates that are t...
