Gate springs, sometimes called auto-close springs or self-closing springs, are simple but effective devices that ensure a garden gate closes automatically after use. They are widely used on gates where a baby or small child must not be able to wander through an open gate, around swimming pools, or on drive entrances where security requires the gate to remain closed.

Types of Gate Spring

The most common gate spring for timber and metal gates is the coil spring type, which uses a coiled spring mechanism enclosed in a cylindrical body. It mounts on the surface of the gate and the post with two brackets, one fixed to the gate and one to the post. When the gate is opened, the spring is wound or compressed; when released, the spring returns the gate to the closed position. The tension can be adjusted by rotating the spring body relative to the brackets to wind or unwind the spring.

Hydraulic gate closers are an alternative for heavier gates or gates where a controlled, silent closing speed is required. These operate by hydraulic fluid resistance rather than spring tension and are set with an adjustment screw for closing speed.

Fitting the Spring

First, check that the gate swings freely and that the latch or catch is functioning correctly before fitting the spring. A spring cannot compensate for a gate that binds or a latch that does not engage reliably.

Position the spring body diagonally between the gate and the post, with one bracket on the gate and one on the post, so that when the gate is in the closed position the spring is in its most relaxed state. Mark the fixing positions for both brackets. The spring should be positioned on the hinge side of the gate and ideally about two-thirds of the way up the gate height to apply force efficiently.

Drill pilot holes and screw both brackets securely to the gate and post using the fixings provided. Fit the spring body into the brackets according to the manufacturer's instruction, ensuring the spring is correctly oriented for the direction the gate opens.

Adjusting the Tension

Test the spring action before finalising the adjustment. The gate should close reliably from fully open and latch cleanly without slamming. If the gate does not close fully, increase the spring tension by rotating the spring body to add turns to the coil. If the gate slams too hard, reduce the tension. Most coil springs have adjustment holes or notches at the bracket connection that allow the tension setting to be incremented in defined steps.

Summary

Fit a gate spring by mounting one bracket on the gate and one on the post at about two-thirds of the gate height, with the spring in a relaxed state when the gate is closed. Ensure the gate operates freely before fitting. Adjust tension by rotating the spring body until the gate closes reliably and latches without slamming. Test thoroughly for safety-critical applications.