Garden Gates

We build fences for a great number of reasons, usually to do with privacy or security. However, fences can be aesthetically appealing and can help make your backyard look very attractive. This is probably most true of a garden fence, which is built not only to protect the garden, but also to enhance the appearance of the yard. Since the fence must have a garden gate, it is important that the gate is attractive, as well as being functional.

There are many different designs and types of garden gates. Generally, your garden gate should match the fence, but this is not always the case. There are wooden garden gates, iron garden gates (and a wrought iron garden gate), aluminum garden gates (as well as other types of metal garden gate0, and bamboo cedar garden gates. Many dedicated gardeners consider their gardens works of art. In garden art, gates are an important part of the “frame” that borders the garden. In this form of living art, the garden gate metal work contributes to the overall effect of the visual presentation. Metal garden gate designs that look good in one garden might not be right for other gardens. Perhaps lightweight decorative garden gates would be more suitable for some of the other gardens.

An iron garden gate or some other type of metal garden gate always presents an image of solid strength, but might not necessarily be right for your garden and fence. If, therefore, you decide upon wood garden gates, there are a few things you should keep in mind. Gates made from wood are notorious for sagging. The reason for this is that they are often improperly constructed.

If you are making a peekaboo gate, do not dadoe the 2”x2” frame into the 4”x4” gateposts. Instead, use a half-lap cut. Nail the centre rail to the posts as elsewhere. Allow some space between the posts and the gate for hinges and clearance for the frame to swing.

If you are making a round-tip gate, make the frame with 2”x2”s with corner lad joints, and the cross rails dadoed into the frame. Set the diagonal brace in the corners, behind the centre cross rail.

If you are making a picket fence gate, double the top and bottom rails; that is, put them on the back as well as the front of the gate. Use the same size wood on the back as on the front. You can use barn door hinges or decorative wrought iron hinges with a matching latch.

Check online or look into the books on woodworking in your local library for instructions illustrated with diagrams for further information on gate construction.