How to Build Swinging Fence Gates

Adding a gate to your fence allows access to an enclosed area anywhere you like. Some homeowners may want to add more than one gate on their fence line, especially if the enclosed area is large. Although pre-constructed gates are readily available at home improvement stores, making your own swinging fence gate is a cost-saving venture that almost anyone can do. Finish your gate in a matching color to the existing fence for a seamless transition.

Measuring tape
2-by-4 lumber
Circular saw
T-square
Wood screws
Drill
Fence pickets that match the existing fence
2-inch finishing nails
Hammer
Wood stain or paint
Paintbrush
Gate hinges (2)
Gate latch

Instructions

- 1
  Measure the distance across the opening in the fence for the gate. Subtract 5 inches from this measurement. Cut two lengths of 2-by-4 lumber to this measurement. These boards are the top and bottom of the gate.
- 2
  Measure the height of the fence. Subtract 5 inches from this measurement. Cut two boards to this measurement. These are the sides of the gate.
- 3
  Place the top, bottom and both side boards on a flat work surface. Arrange the top and bottom pieces so they are horizontal to you and parallel to each other. Place the side boards inside the ends of the top and bottom boards and vertical to you. The four boards should form a rectangle. Check to make sure the corners are square then screw the rectangle together with a drill and wood screws.
- 4
  Measure the distance from the top right corner to the bottom left corner of the rectangle. Cut a length of 2-by-4 to this measurement. This is the support board. Cut the ends of the board to fit snugly inside the rectangle. Screw the support in place.
- 5
  Place a fence picket on top of the rectangle, parallel to the side boards. Position the picket all the way on one side of the rectangle. Secure the picket with 2-inch nails driven through the top, bottom and support board. Measure the distance between the pickets on the existing fence. Install the rest of the pickets to the gate, spacing them the same as on the fence.
- 6
  Paint the gate with wood stain or paint to match the existing fencing. Allow the stain or paint to dry before handling the gate.
- 7
  Position a hinge on the front of the gate about 3 inches from the top. Screw one side of the hinge to the gate so the other side hangs over. Repeat 3 inches from the bottom of the gate.
- 8
  Hold the fence in the opening of the fence line. Attach the other end of each hinge to the fence with wood screws, leaving about 2 inches under the gate for swinging room.
- 9
  Attach one end of the gate latch to the opposite side of the gate with the hinges. Attach the other end to the fence directly in line with the other half of the latch. Check to make sure the gate swings properly. Make any adjustments if needed.

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