How to Build a Strong Redwood Gate

Sketch the gate, including its dimensions, to organize the construction process. Begin with a rectangular gate frame. Make the width of the frame and horizontal rails 1 inch shorter than the space between the gate posts. The gate's height is a matter of personal preference. The frame should have a diagonal wooden brace extending across each corner. The infill planks, whether horizontal or vertical, should extend across the frame so their cut ends align with the frame's outer edges.

Set the miter saw to make 45-degree cuts. Lay a 2-by-6-inch redwood plank on the saw table with its 6-inch surfaces horizontal. The plank will be a horizontal framing rail. Holding the plank firmly against the guide fence, you'll trim off one end. Refer to your sketch to determine the length of the horizontal rails. Measure and mark the long edge of the plank to the length of the rail. Cut the plank through the mark. The end cuts on all of the framing members are convergent, not parallel. Cut a second rail to the same dimensions.

Refer to your sketch to determine the height of the vertical framing stiles. Measure and mark the long edge of a trimmed plank to the length of the stile. Cut the plank through the mark. Cut a second stile to the same dimensions.

Divide the length of the shortest framing member by three to calculate the length of the diagonal wooden braces. Measure and mark the long edge of a trimmed plank to this dimension. Cut the plank through the mark. Like the rails and stiles, the brace's end cuts are convergent. Measure, mark and cut three more braces to the same dimensions.

Arrange the rails and stiles in a rectangle on a flat surface. Place one heavy-duty corner bracket on the outside of each corner of the frame. Use a drill and driving bit to attach the corner brackets to the frame with 1 1/2-inch deck screws. Position a diagonal wooden brace across each corner of the frame. Align the cut ends of the braces with the outer edges of the frame. Attach the braces to the frame with at least six 2 1/2-inch deck screws, evenly spaced, about 3 inches apart.

Refer to the sketch for the dimensions of the infill planks. Rotate the saw blade to make 90-degree cuts. Measure, mark and cut the infill planks.

Turn the frame over. Arrange the infill planks so they're evenly spaced on the frame. Use 2 1/2-inch deck screws to attach the infill planks to the frame with at least four evenly spaced screws attaching each end of the planks.