How to Build a Double Gate
Whether you have an existing fence or an opening you want to secure, double gates are a great way to close an area but still allow access to vehicles.
There are many different types of double gates, and you can get double gates that match nearly every fence you can imagine. So what we’re focusing on here is the process of building the gate to the right size and how to install it. Here’s how to build a double gate in some relatively easy steps!
1. Decide What Type of Gate You Want
There are so many types of double gates out there. You can build a wooden gate or opt for a chain link or ornamental gate. You could choose a low-cost farm gate, or you might choose something completely different.
Usually, if you have an existing fence, you will want to match the gate to that fence, but if you’re building a double gate to close an opening that is not in a fence, the first step in how to build a double gate is to choose the type of gate you want.
2. Install Your Gate Posts
Many professional fence companies will have their gates and gate posts on site, ready to install together. However, if you’re not a professional fence installer, it’s usually easier to install your gate posts first and then measure the opening size so your gate is exactly the right size for your gate.
This is also why the first step here is to choose the type of gate – because that will affect the type of gate posts you need.
Wider double gates are usually quite heavy, so you will need a stronger gate post than you would use for a fence of the same type. Different types of gates might also be heavier or lighter, which would also affect the type of post you want.
When you’re installing a double gate, you usually want to have a good size concrete footing for your gate posts because this acts as an anchor or even a counterbalance for the gate, and it needs to be sturdy!
Give your gate posts and their footings a few days to cure and harden before you start thinking of installing your gate, and if you need to brace them temporarily to be sure they don’t move out of square during that process, go ahead and do that.
3. Choose Your Hardware and Order Your Gate
The next step in how to build a double gate is to choose the type of hardware you want on your gate and to place the order for it to be manufactured.
In most cases, you can buy gates that are built to the size you need them from fence companies and suppliers. Exceptions might be wooden gates, which are usually built on-site to suit the opening.
Choosing your hardware at the same time is very important, too, because different types of hinges and latches need different amounts of clearance to work, so you really do need to know what you plan to use before you can figure out your gate size.
4. Hang Your Gate
By the time your gate and gate hardware arrives, your concrete footings are probably dry and ready to take some weight.
Depending on what kind of hardware you’re using, this could be a more or less forgiving process.
Bolt-on gate hardware is adjustable even after your gate is hung, so you have more leeway with that kind of gate installation.
However, if you’re using hardware that will be fixed to the gate and posts, you will want to make sure that you measure and mark the position of the hardware carefully, and don’t forget to use a level to ensure that both gate leaves are installed at the same height.
This really is a good time to follow the old adage, “measure twice, cut once!”
Hang one leaf at a time, and start with the top hinge so that the gate is supported when you attach the bottom hinge.
Prepare for Future Automation
If you plan to add automation to your double gate at some time in the future, be sure to ask an automation company what you need to know about your gate. Some kinds of gates can’t be automated, while some hardware is incompatible with automation.
The automation company will probably also ask you to install a conduit under the gate so that when they need to install wires in the future, it’s already there, and they don’t have to rip your paving up!
Moderately Easy for DIY
Building a double swing gate is not that difficult. Nor is installing gate posts or hanging the gate on the posts.
However, like all fencing projects, this does require some general skill, and it’s best suited to people who are reasonably handy, who know how to measure, and who aren’t scared of power tools!
If you’re allergic to drills and have never met a screwdriver you didn’t hate; this is not something you want to do yourself! Call the pros, put up your feet, and avoid the hassle!
