How to Make a Rustic Road Gate

Sketch the gate, including dimensions. The width of the rectangular gate frame is equal to the space between the gate posts, minus 1 inch. The height of the gate and frame is a matter of personal preference; however, the gate is typically built to approximately the same height as the fence. A vertical plank divides the gate into equal left and right sides. Wooden braces extend diagonally from the upper corners of the frame to the opposite lower corners.

Set the chop saw to make 90-degree cuts. Refer to the dimensions on your sketch to measure and mark two planks to the length of the horizontal rails. Place a plank on the table of the saw with its 2-inch edge against the guide fence. Holding the plank firmly against the guide fence, trim the plank. Repeat to trim a second rail to the same dimensions.

Refer to the dimensions on your sketch. Subtract 15 inches from the height of the gate to calculate the lengths of the vertical framing stiles. Measure, mark and cut three planks to this length. Two planks will form the vertical edges of the frame. The third plank will be attached vertically to the center of the frame to add support.

Arrange the planks on a flat surface to form a rectangular frame. The milled edges of the rails form 90-degree butt joints with the cut ends of the stiles. Measure and mark the centers of the rails. Center the middle stile to the center marks on the rails.

Screw an L-shaped corner brace to the inside corners of each of the stiles where they meet the rails with a drill and driving bit. Use a carpenter's square to square the joints. Screw the unattached legs of the braces to the adjacent rails.

Lay a plank diagonally across the assembled gate frame. Center the plank to the corners of the frame. Use a pencil to trace around the outer edges of the frame onto the ends of the plank. Remove the plank. Trim the board on the lines, using a circular saw. Reposition the plank on the gate frame, aligning its cut edges to the edges of the frame.

Drill four evenly spaced pilot holes in each end of the diagonal brace. Two holes in each end will be used to attach the brace to the stile. Two holes will be used to attach the brace to the rail. Place a washer onto each lag screw. Place one lag screw into each pilot hole. Tighten the lag screws with a socket wrench. Drill two evenly spaced holes in the center of the brace where it crosses the center stile. Attach the brace to the center stile with lag screws and washers. Turn the fence over.

Lay a plank diagonally across the frame so the braces intersect to form an X in the center of the gate. Center the plank to the corners of the frame. Trace the edges of the frame onto the second brace. Remove the plank. Trim the board, then reposition it on the frame. Drill pilot holes to attach the brace to the frame, then attach the brace with lag screws and washers. Drill a pilot hole in the center of the brace where it crosses the center stile. Attach the brace to the center stile with lag screws and washers.