Can You Use a Metal Gate Frame for a Wood Gate?
If you’re building a wood fence (or having one built), you may be wondering if you can use a metal gate frame for a wood gate.
The answer is yes, and there are several options you might consider. Let’s take a closer look at how metal gate frames for wood gates work, what your options are, and why metal gate frames for wood gates might be a good idea.
How Do Metal Gate Frames for Wood Gates Work?
Like most things in the world of fences and gates, there are several different options when you are constructing a wooden gate with a metal frame.
Commercial Metal Gate Frames for Wood Gates
The first option you have when you want to build a wood gate with a metal frame is to use a commercial metal gate frame. There are several types available, but these are a few of the more common options.
Full Metal Gate Frames for Wood GatesThe first option you have when choosing a metal gate frame for a wood gate is to purchase a full metal gate frame that is prepped and ready for wooden fence board installation. Often, these frames will even have predrilled holes for attaching fence boards, which means you can complete the job very quickly, even if you don’t have lots of DIY experience or power tools! Add hinges and hang your gate on a suitable gate post, and you’ve got the job done. |
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Gate Frame Kits for Wood GatesIf you’ve got a little more time and you’re a bit handier (or you want a custom size wood gate), then commercial gate frame kits for wood gates are another option. These kits include gate corners, hinges, latches, and other hardware, so while there’s a little more to constructing your gate, it’s still easy to build a great-looking and durable wood gate with a metal frame. |
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DIY Metal Gate Frames for Wood Gates
If you prefer not to buy a ready-made metal gate frame for your wood gate, you can still build a wood gate this way, and there are several options.
Channel iron that is slightly larger than the thickness of your fence boards is a great option and can be used to construct wood gates with vertical or horizontal boards.
Flat bar and angle iron can also be used to create a DIY metal gate frame for your wood gate.
If you are planning to build a DIY metal gate frame for your wooden gate, we recommend buying or renting a drill press and cut-off saw for the job. These will allow you to cut and drill holes in the metal and wood much more precisely, which will make the job a lot easier!
Pros and Cons of Metal Gate Frames for Wood Gates
Like every gate design, there are pros and cons to wood gates with metal frames.
On the plus side, metal frames won’t rot like wood, so your gate might be stronger and last longer.
These kinds of gates also look polished and elegant compared to standard barn-style wooden gates, and they give you more (and easier) options for hinges, hardware, and gate posts.
The main downside to metal gate frames for wooden gates is that metal corrodes, so if you don’t use a frame product or material that is properly protected, your gate frame could rust.
Metal also conducts electricity, so if you are adding gate automation or even lighting, you need to be careful to ensure that your gate posts and frames are properly grounded and protected from becoming live – and, therefore, dangerous.
On balance, metal frames for wooden gates are a good option; they look great and can be very durable. As always, buy quality materials, and if you’re not entirely confident in your DIY abilities, hire a professional to help get the job done right.
