How to Build a Gate with Wheels

Measure the distance the gate needs to span and subtract 1/2 an inch to allow for movement. Cut 1-1/2-inch-thick gate boards to fit the width of the gate. Stack as many as necessary next to each other to reach the desired gate height. Be sure to allow adequate clearance at the bottom of the gate for the wheels.

Cut 1/2-inch-thick support boards to the height of the gate or slightly shorter. Evenly space two of them on top of and perpendicular to the gate boards, with their largest surfaces touching. Drill two holes through each support board and into each gate board, then screw them together with 1-1/2-inch galvanized wood screws. Flip the gate over and attach two more support boards in the same fashion.

Drill three evenly spaced holes in the bottom edge of the gate, slightly smaller than the diameter of the attachment screw on three all-weather wheels. Screw the wheels firmly into the holes.

Position the assembled gate in its area with the help of an assistant. Line up three hinges evenly between the gate and the attachment point. Mark the positions of the hinge holes in both the gate and the attachment surface. Remove the gate and drill out each marked spot, using a masonry drill bit if drilling into a masonry wall. Attach the hinges to the gate with 1-1/2-inch galvanized wood screws. Secure the hinges to the attachment surface with 3-inch galvanized wood screws.

Swing the gate and determine the best place for the latch. Mark the screw holes for the latch and drill them in both the gate and the attachment surface. Attach the latch to the gate with 1-1/2-inch galvanized wood screws. Secure the latch to the attachment surface with 3-inch galvanized wood screws.