How to Make a Gate Operate on Uneven Ground

Mark on the post where you plan to install the gate’s hinges, making marks on the post where the hinges’ mounting holes will sit. Place a level over the marks you made to measure if they are perfectly vertical; otherwise, the gate will swing open by itself if it is not fully latched.

Hold the gate in the opening in the fence, testing out the placement of the hinges. The bottom hinge needs to attach toward the bottom of the gate, allowing the bottom of the gate to sit at least 1 inch above the highest point of the ground’s slope.

Drill pilot holes in the gate’s post, then hold the hinges so their mounting holes line up with the pilot holes. Drive screws through the pilot holes, anchoring the hinges to the post.

Hold the gate near the post with the hinges, leaving about a 1/4-inch gap between the gate and the post. Place the level on the top of the gate to ensure it is sitting level, then mark the location of the hinge’s mounting holes on the gate.

Drill pilot holes in the gate where you marked the location of the hinge’s mounting holes. Hold the gate back in position and drive screws through the pilot hinges, attaching the gate to the hinges. Attach the gate’s handle and lock mechanism to the gate and post using screws.