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Gate problems (self.diy)

submitted 1 month ago by argueswithidiots to c/diy

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Trying to get this gate to sit level and swing freely. I used an adjust-a-gate kit. The width is 92", height is 6'. I have used the lightest possible wood, and I can't get this damn thing to hang straight. The turnbuckle that came with it bent straight and came flying out of the holes, so I used a different one I had on hand. Clearly the wheel isn't doing anything except causing the gate to warp since it isn't centered under the weight.

I want to add a diagonal cross brace from the bottom hinge to the top corner, but I'm not sure how exactly to do it with the 3 horizontal boards.

I'm also considered replacing the hinges with 3 extra long strap hinges, one on each horizontal board.

What do you guys think?

Gates

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[–] [email protected] 3 points 1 month ago (1 children)

With a gate that long you may have to attach a support wheel on the bottom. You'll always have sagging issues using wood. I tried doing a 4x8' gate for the parking area where I put my camper. Would always sag over time, even with heavy hinges and steel cable on the diagonal. Land was sloped so couldn't do a support wheel. Ended up having to do two 4' gates either side instead.

[–] argueswithidiots 1 points 1 month ago (1 children)

I tried using the wheel in the picture, because it's not directly under the gate, I think it's what's causing it to bow. These are our driveway gates, and I have two 8-ft gates meeting in the middle on either side of the driveway. That's the idea anyway, but currently I just have this piece of shit seen in the picture. The driveway slopes down away from the gate when it opens, which I don't care about. I just want it to sit level while closed. 95% of the time it is going to be closed and sitting there, and will only be opened when we are leaving or coming home.

[–] [email protected] 1 points 1 month ago (1 children)

Well, there IS a picture. On mobile, didn't see it the first time. Yeah, with a single wheel mounted like that on an arm, that gate is definitely going to sag over like that. Maybe add another of those wheels on the opposite side so the support is balanced?

[–] argueswithidiots 1 points 1 month ago

I thought about that, but the front boards are only 5/8. I don't trust that long term. I'm going to remove the wheel and put three long ass strap hinges on the horizontal boards. I'm hoping that will distribute the weight better.