Fence gate plans

This step by step diy project is about fence gate plans. If you want to learn more about building a fence gate, pay attention to this project. Follow the instructions and pay attention to the diagrams and build the simple 48″ height gate in just one weekend, even if you are a beginner when it comes to woodworking.

You should always plan everything from the very beginning, in order to prevent costly mistakes and to save time. Taking into account the neat design, this wooden gate can match the style of any backyard. Mark the cut lines on the slats before making the cuts and use a jigsaw to get the job done. If you are looking for other designs or sizes, you should check out the rest of the animal plans.

There are a few tips that you should take into account, if you want to get a professional result. Therefore, take accurate measurements and use professional tool when making the cuts or when drilling pilot holes. Align the components at both ends and add waterproof glue to the joints, if you want to create a rigid structure. Round the exposed edges with sandpaper or by using a good router. See all my Premium Plans in the Shop.

Made from this plan

Building a fence gate

Materials

A – 2 pieces of 4×4 lumber – 132″ long POSTS
B – 2 pieces of 2×3 lumber – 35 1/2″ long, 1 piece – 47 1/2″ long, 1 piece – 42 1/2″ long, 1 piece – 51 3/4″ long FRAME
C – 8 pieces of 1×6 lumber – 48″ long PICKETS
D – 2 piece of 2×8 lumber – 44 1/2″ long RAFTERS

2 pieces of 4×4 lumber – 12 ft
3 pieces of 2×4 lumber – 8 ft
4 pieces of 1×6 lumber – 8 ft
1 piece of 2×8 lumber – 8 ft
30 pieces of 2 1/2″ screws
50 pieces of 1 1/4″ screws
glue, stain / stain

Tools

Safety gloves, glasses
Miter saw, jigsaw
Chalk line, tape measure, spirit level, carpentry pencil
Drill machinery and drill bits

Tips

Use a good miter saw to make the angle cuts
Drill pilot holes before inserting the screws

Time

One Week

How to build a wooden fence

How to build a fence gate

Fitting the posts

Setting the posts in concrete is essential for the rigidity of the privacy. As you can easily notice in the diagram, we recommend you to dig 3′ deep holes and to pour 2″ gravel on the bottom. Install the tube forms to the holes. Secure the posts with braces before filling the forms with concrete, making sure the posts are level.

Fitting the posts

After installing the both posts, we recommend you to make sure their top are perfectly horizontal. Use a slat and a spirit level to make sure the posts are at the same height. In addition, make sure the posts are plumb.

Building the gate frame

Build the frame of the gate out of 2×3 lumber. Cut the components at the right dimensions and lay them on a level surface. Drill pilot holes through the components and insert 3 1/2″ screws to create rigid joints. Make sure the corners are right-angled and align the edges with great care.

Fitting the diagonal brace

In order to enhance the rigidity of the frame, you need to fit a diagonal brace. Drill pilot holes and insert 2 1/2″ screws to lock everything together tightly.

Cutting the ends of the diagonal brace

Pay attention to the diagram, if you want to make accurate cuts to both ends of the diagonal brace.

Fitting the pickets

Next, lay the picket fence to the frame of the gate, making sure you place them equally-spaced. Drill pilot holes through the pickets and insert 1 1/4″ galvanized screws.

Fitting the gate to the posts

Fit the gate to the posts and secure it into place with appropriate hinges. Install a latch and make sure there is enough ground clearance to open and close it properly.

Building the top rafters

Building the rafters is a straight forward process, but you need to pay attention to a few aspects. Mark the cut lines on the 2×8 beams and get the job done with a jigsaw. Smooth the edges with sandpaper, before fitting them to the top of the posts.

Fitting the rafters

Clamp the rafters to the top of the posts and make sure the edges are perfectly aligned. Drill pilot holes through the beams and through the posts. Insert 7″ carriage bolts to secure everything together tightly.

Fence gate plans

Last but not least, we recommend you to take care of the finishing touches. In order to get a professional result, fill the holes and the gaps with wood filler and let it dry out for a few hours. Check if there are protruding screws and fix this issue, if necessary.

Thank you for reading our project about fence gate plans and we recommend you to check out the rest of the projects. Don’t forget to SHARE and LIKE our projects with your friends, by using the social media widgets, if you want to help us keep adding free woodworking plans.

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