How to Make a Gate Door

Extend a tape measuring between the gate posts to determine the gate’s width. Subtract 2 inches from the width for mounting hardware and record the measurement. Determine the length of the gate opening and subtract 2 inches before recording the measurement. The 2 inches allow the gate to swing freely, without dragging on the ground.

Measure and cut two 2-by-4-inch boards to the recorded height of the gate using a circular saw. Also measure and cut two boards 4 inches shorter than the recorded width of the gate, so you nail these between the ends of the vertical boards for the gate’s frame.

Dry-fit the wood frame on the floor, ensuring the ends of parallel boards are in line with each other. Arrange the rectangular frame so the two shorter pieces of lumber fall between and perpendicular to the two longer boards. Butt the corners of the frame so they are square.

Drive two to three 4-inch galvanized wood screws into the corners to secure the boards.

Measure the height and width of the gate’s frame, from each outer edge. Transfer the measurement to a lattice sheet.

Cut over the outline on the lattice using a handsaw. Center and lower the lattice sheet over the rectangular frame, ensuring its edges fall flush against the outer edges of the frame.

Hammer a row of evenly spaced 2-inch finishing nails to secure the lattice sheet to the frame.

Paint the frame and lattice sheet in your desired shade. Use a paint roller to cover wider, larger areas, and a small paintbrush to access tight corners and edges. Allow the primer and paint to dry.

Enlist a helper to hold the gate in its opening, 2 inches above the ground. Use a carpenter’s level to ensure the gate is level. Mark the two hinge locations on the same side of the gate, and on the corresponding spots on the post. Set the gate on the ground.

Place the hinge on each marked spot on the gate and secure it using the provided mounting hardware. Lift the gate up again against the opening and attach the other halves of the hinges to the marks on the posts.

Drive nails to secure the hook into the opposite post, positioned along its middle. Attach the eye bolt to the corresponding side of the gate.