How to Make a Wooden Gate

There are some simple home projects which you do not need to go out and hire some expensive contractor or carpenter. One of these which you yourself can do is a wooden gate for your yard.

Relax, making a wooden gate all by ourselves is an exciting adventure and doesn't need to be hard or impossible. If we do everything systematically it shouldn't be too hard. To build a wooden gate we need the right design for a specific purpose.

In making a wooden gate ourselves the first thing we need to do is design it. This means we take exact measurements based on the width of the opening where we want to put up the gate. We also consider the height of the fence around it. Everything must be complementary, after all we want form and functionality, right?

Then we buy the needed wood pieces-4 by 4 inches latch and hinge posts, gate frames measuring 2 by 4 inches and picket wood pieces measuring 1 by 2 inches. These are mere suggestions; wood sizes may vary depending on our wooden gate design. We also need screws, some nails, 3 to 4 hinge sets, and the latch. The sizes and number of pieces depend on the size of the wooden gate.

We dig holes for the latch and hinge posts. A depth of 3 feet, more or less, ought to do. Insert one end of the posts into the holes and reinforce with rocks and earth intact at the sides to keep it from moving. Or pour concrete at the sides. Then we install horizontal frames for the wooden gate fitting the gateway. We also fix the gate hinges permanently to the hinge post.

Then we install the diagonal frames. Measure them to accurately fit the horizontal frames. To attach, drill holes through them and the horizontal frames and insert long screws. Mark spots, which are evenly spaced, allotted for the pickets. Use a square. Then attach them to the wooden gate using nails or screws at their bottom side. Two screws or nails each would do.

Finally, re-mount the wooden gate. Detach the gate to render the wood to a smooth finish and accurate fitting by scraping extra wood thickness. Then re-mount by attaching again to the hinges permanently. Make sure the wooden gate opens and closes to and from its jamb or latch post smoothly.

It is best to make the wooden gate right where we intend to install it. This enables us to get the actual measurement needed and base the wooden gate dimensions from it. Handle carpentry tools and materials with the greatest care and make sure to wear fitting gloves when hammering nails, driving screws, or cutting with a saw.

Make sure all tools are in good condition, like ensuring that the chisel or plain blades are sharp. Sharp tools make the work easier and safer. Wear a carpentry apron if necessary.

It's exciting to make our own wooden gate. We can start experimenting with our garden gate.

John Grant is a the author for a how to site where he is writing articles about how to build a gate.