As fences get older, so do their gates. A sagging gate can become a major nuisance of the highest order.
We will assume for the sake of this article that the post upon which the gate is hinged is in good condition. Here’s our quick-check list:
First, check the hinges to ensure that they are securely fastened to both the gate and the post.
If the hinges are attached with nuts and bolts all you’ll need to do is tightly wrench one and all. If screws are loose, then replace the old screws with longer, larger ones.
If the hinges are snugly attached to both the gate and post, then the problem probably lies with the gate itself. Most of the time, wooden gates sag, wobble and drag because of the unsupported weight of the gate at the latch side.
Over time, the fibers in the frame dry out and tear, and nails loosen. That’s when the latch side of begins to slump.
If the gate post is secure and the hinges are snug, then repairing a sagging gate can be a breeze. There are two simple methods: Install a wood cross brace or install an adjustable metal turnbuckle.
Installing a wood cross brace is pretty easy. Here are the steps:
First, support the latch side of the gate from below with a series of blocks or shims. The latch assembly should align perfectly. Once perfectly aligned add another 1/4-inch shim. The latch on the gate side should be about 1/4 inch higher than the latch on the fence side.
Next, cut a diagonal brace to fit tightly between the lower inside corner of the gate frame at the hinge side to the upper inside corner of the gate frame at the latch side.
Nail in the brace everywhere possible (including fence boards) and remove the support blocks. The gate should drop about a quarter of an inch when the blocks are removed.
Installing a wire and turnbuckle is equally easy. Here are the steps:
Install corner brackets: one at upper corner at hinge side and one at lower corner at latch side.
Connect one of the cables to one corner bracket, then to turnbuckle.
Connect the second cable to the opposite corner bracket and then to turnbuckle.
Finally, rotate the turnbuckle with a screwdriver until the cables tighten and lift the gate to its proper height.
For tips from James and Morris Carey, go to www.onthehouse.com or call the listener hot line, 800-737-2474, ext. 59. The Careys are also on KRKO (1380-AM) from 6 to 10 a.m. every Saturday.
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