For durability, affix hinges to the rails of the gate.
Hanging a garden gate is a simple three-step job that a novice handyman can complete in about an hour. Once you decide which side of the gate will be hinged, you affix the hinges to the gate. You place the gatein position, level it and screw the hinges to the gate post. Although a wide variety of hinge-types are available, standard T-type hinges are simple to install on just about any wooden gate and gate post. This job requires no special tools or advanced carpentry skills. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
1. Test-fit the gate between the gate posts to determine which way the gate will swing and on which side of the gate you will mount the hinges.
2. Lay the gate on a flat surface, hinge-side up. Position the hinges on the gate where they will be installed. For secure installation, screw the strap portion of the hinges into the gate's rails. Align the edges of the hinge straps with the lateral edge of the gate so the pivoting portions extend just past the edge of the gate.
3. Screw the straps of the hinges in place, using a drill and driver bit.
4. Center the gate between the gate posts with the hinged side of the gate flush with the gate posts. Use scrap wood to raise the gate off the ground 1 to 2 inches, as desired, so the gate will swing freely when opening and closing. Level the top rail of the gate with a carpenter's level.
5. Tap shims between the gate and gate posts to hold it in place with a mallet. Recheck for level and add shims, as needed, until the gate is held firmly in place.
6. Pivot the screw plates of the hinges so they are flush with the gate posts. Screw the plate in place, using a drill and driver bit. Use a mallet to knock the shims from the spaces between the gate and the gate post. Remove the scrap lumber beneath the gate.
Tags: gate posts, between gate, gate will, hinges gate, gate gate