Hanging a gate so that it works properly, looks right, and continues to perform well for years requires attention to the posts, the hinge specification, and the hanging position. Gates that are poorly hung sag, bind, or fail to latch, and the problems worsen over time as the fixings loosen under the leverage of the swinging gate.

Post Condition and Plumb

Before hanging any gate, confirm that the posts are sound, firmly fixed, and plumb. Timber posts should be pressure-treated and set at least 600mm into the ground in concrete, or 900mm for a heavy gate. Metal posts should be set in concrete to similar depths. A post that leans or moves when the gate swings will cause the gate to sag and the latch to misalign, regardless of how well the gate is hung. Rectifying a poor post before hanging is far easier than dealing with a poorly performing gate afterwards.

Choosing the Right Hinges

Hinge size and type must be appropriate for the weight and size of the gate. The general rule is to use hinges as large as practical and to fix them with as many screws as the hinge plate allows. Heavy-duty reversible gate hinges with a through-bolt fixing provide the most secure connection for timber gates; T-hinges and band and hook hinges are suitable for lighter gates. Galvanised or stainless steel hinges resist corrosion in external use and do not stain the timber.

As a guide, a gate up to 25kg in weight suits standard 150 to 200mm galvanised hinges at two positions. A gate above 25kg benefits from three hinges or heavier-duty versions with longer leaves for wider screw patterns. The hinge manufacturer's load rating is the definitive reference for sizing.

Positioning the Hinges

Fix the hinge positions at approximately one-quarter and three-quarters of the gate height to distribute the load effectively. For a tall gate, three hinges at one-sixth, one-half, and five-sixths of the height provides better support. Mark the hinge positions on both the gate stile and the post at the same time to ensure alignment.

Hanging the Gate

Use a prop or helper to hold the gate at the correct position while fixing the hinges. The gate should have a clearance gap of 5 to 10mm between the gate edge and each post to allow for swelling in wet weather and to ensure the gate does not bind. The bottom of the gate should clear the ground by 10 to 20mm to prevent it dragging.

Fix the hinge plates to the gate first, then offer the gate up to the post and mark the post hinge positions from the gate. Drill pilot holes in the post and fix the hinge to the post with the gate in position. Check the swing and adjust the clearance gaps if needed before driving all fixing screws fully home.

Summary

Hanging a gate successfully requires sound plumb posts, correctly sized hinges for the gate weight, and clearance gaps of 5 to 10mm at each side and 10 to 20mm at the bottom. Position hinges at approximately one-quarter and three-quarters of the gate height. Fix the latch after hanging and adjust the keep plate position for reliable closure. Good post foundations are as important as the hinge quality for long-term gate performance.