Field Gate Installation Guide
Installing a wooden field gate is a practical and rewarding project that provides secure access to driveways, paddocks, or farmland.
Whether you're fitting a standard 5-bar or 6-rail gate, this guide will walk you through the key steps — from measuring and setting posts to hanging the gate and adding hardware — to help ensure a strong, level, and long-lasting installation.

What You Will Need...
- Tape Measure
- Spirit Level
- Drill & appropriate drill bits for masonry
- Spanner
- Screws/Bolts
- Gate Posts
- Adjustable 24" Hinges
- Drop Bolt or latch
- Post Mix or Concrete (if posts are going into the ground)
Step 1. Measure and Prepare the Gate Opening
- Use our How to Measure page to calculate the size of your opening and what hinges will work for you.
Step 2. Install Gate Posts
- Mark post positions based on the total gate width + hinge clearance.
- Dig holes at least 600mm - 750mm deep - deeper for heavier gates and if the soil is softer.
- Set posts plumb and level using a spirit level.
- Fix in place with Post Mix or concrete and allow to set for 48 hours before hanging your gates, whilst bracing the posts to prevent movement.
Step 3. Positioning and Preparing the Hinges
- Lay field gate flat on a stable surface.
- Mark the positions for your hinges. Typically, place the top hinge about 150mm from the top rail and the bottom hinge about 150mm from the bottom.
- Attach the eye bolts, to the gate using screws or bolts.
Step 4. Hang the Gates
- Lift the gate and rest the eye bolts onto the hook-on plates on the hanging post.Use timber wedges under the gate to hold it at the desired height and make sure it is level.
- Secure the gate to the post by tightening the hinge bolts, adjusting them as needed for smooth operation.
Step 5. Check Swing and Alignment
- Open and close the gate to ensure smooth movement.
- Adjust the hinge bolts if the gate sags or needs levelling.
- Check gaps between the gate and posts.
Step 6. Fit Latch or Drop Bolt
- With the gate in the closed position, install your drop bolt or throw-over latch on the closing post.
- Latch - ensure it is positioned at a convenient height for easy use and secures the gate tightly.
- Drop Bolt - mark where it needs to sit, then drill a hole into the ground for it to drop into when the gate is closed.
Step 7. Final Checks
- All fixings are tight
- Gate opens and closes smoothly
- No excessive gaps or binding
- Apply Osmo Oil