How to Build a Garden Gate
By , This Old House magazine
Photo: Kolin Smith
Use stakes and a mason line to plot two holes evenly on either side of the walkway so that, center to center, they create a line perpendicular to the path. Dig each hole 6 inches below the frost line or far enough to sink one-third of a post, whichever is deeper. Make the diameter three times the size of the post.
Steps
- Introduction
- Overview
- 1. Dig the Postholes
- 2. Wrap and Set the Posts
- 3. Assemble the Frame of the Gate
- 4. Mark the Crosspiece
- 5. Cut the Crosspiece
- 6. Bevel the Brace to Make the Gate's Trim
- 7. Install the Apron
- 8. Create the Pales
- 9. Cut the Edge Bevels
- 10. Install the Pales
- 11. Finish the Gate: Secure the Brace
- 12. Add and Secure the Post Caps
- 13. Shim and Level the Gate in Place
- 14. Position the Hinges
- 15. Attach the Hinges
- 16. Add the Latch and Stop