Gate problems
Gate problems
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?
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I own a company that does fences, whenever someone suggests a big gate my first reaction is always "nope". They never stay square, they're too heavy. It might be a few months if they're getting regular use, maybe a year if you're lucky, but either way I fully wash my hands of that shit. I won't warranty it and I do everything I can to discourage them.
If you're insisting on a driveway gate you need to find someone who can weld aluminum tube and make a frame with built-in hinges that'll rest on a pin. I don't know the actual name of that style of hinge, similar to a J bolt but my welder makes a huge plate for them to attach to a wall or post. Then you can cover that frame with wood, or preferably something even lighter.
I've made a 24' aluminum and vinyl gate like this that rested on a single hinge, and it worked. It was expensive, impractical, and had other issues, but gosh darn, it didn't sag.
Wood is just too heavy and not strong enough for a gate that gets used regularly, any fix you make is temporary
I really appreciate this comment. I was hoping that using the thin cedar pickets would have been enough to keep it light. I'm not averse to redoing the gate at some point, or even tearing our the gate posts and using 6x6 posts ajd putting them even deeper, but right now I just need to get these things up and working.
I just don't know how to add the diagonal brace board with the middle support board in the way.