How to hang a gate
Hanging gates can sometimes be a difficult and frustrating task, particularly if you are unsure of how to go about the job. There are so many variables to consider, including contour of the ground that the gate will swing over, the slope of the ground the fence is on, and what type of livestock is being kept in or out. The following is a step by step guide to help make the task easier.
Position the two gate posts with adequate space between to fit the gate. If the gate needs to swing both ways, the opening will need to be slightly wider than the swinging gate, remembering that the gate will be slightly longer once it is hung due to the gudgeons protruding from the post. If the gate is to be closed against a post, then this opening needs to be slightly smaller than the gate.
Place the gate against the post and mark off underneath each gate clamp at the desired height, leaving enough space for ground clearance. Generally it is easier to position the gate on blocks of wood at the ground clearance required, particularly if working alone. Keep in mind where the gate will swing to when open, especially if the ground rises up where the gate will open.
Mark the top of the post with a line that continues the line of the fence. Mark at an angle of 50° from it, as shown in Figure 1. This position will allow the gate to swing back against the fence when it is opened, otherwise the gate will hit the strainer post it is swinging from first. From this line, run a spirit level or vertical plumb line down the post. If you are hanging the gate to swing both ways, the gudgeons need to be in line with the fence.
Drill the holes for the top and bottom gudgeons, boring into the post horizontally in line with the 50° line (Figure 2).
Slide or screw the gudgeons into position and tighten, leaving about 40mm between the post and the face of the pin at the top gudgeon, and 50mm at the bottom gudgeon (Figure 3).
Lift the gate into position and adjust the gudgeons so that the end of the gate is 50mm above the top of the post. This will allow the gate to settle without hindering its performance or appearance (Figure 4).
Place the gate latch on the inside of the gate, so there is limited movement when the gate is closed (Figure 5).
Now stand back and admire your work.
