Garden Gate Installation Guide

Install your garden or side gate with ease using our step-by-step installation guide. From setting the posts and aligning the hinges to securing the latch, we provide detailed instructions for a smooth, professional finish. Whether you're installing a new side entrance or updating an old gate, this guide is perfect for DIYers and first-time installers.

Garden Gate Installation Guide

Installing a garden gate is a great way to enhance both the security and appearance of your outdoor space.

Whether you're replacing an old gate or fitting a brand-new one, getting the installation right is key to ensuring smooth operation and long-lasting performance.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the essential steps to install a wooden garden gate - from setting your posts to fitting hinges and latches - with tips to help you achieve a neat, professional finish.

What You Will Need...

Tape Measure
Spirit Level
Drill & appropriate drill bits for masonry
Spanner
Screws, bolts, nuts
Gate Posts
Hinges (adjustable hook & band)
Gate latch or lock
Drop bolt & throwover loop (if using double gates)
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 on both sides of the opening, ensuring they are the correct width apart for your gate and hinges.
Dig holes at least 600mm - 750mm deep - deeper for heavier gates and if the soil is softer.
Set posts plumb (vertically straight) 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. Attach Hinges to the Gate

Lay the gate flat on the ground and position the hinges along the edge of the gate, about 100mm from top and bottom.
Drill pilot holes and attach the adjustable hook and band hinges to the gate using appropriate screws or bolts

Step 4. Fit the Gate to the Posts

Lift the gate into position. Hold the gate at the desired height (50-75mm from the ground) and mark where the hinges will attach to the posts.
Install the hook plates (if you're using adjustable hinges) onto the gate posts, ensuring they are level with each other.
Fix the hook plates to the posts securely, leaving enough room for the hinges to slide into place.
Slide the hinges onto the hook plates to hang the gate, ensuring it swings freely and doesn't rub against the posts.

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 - typically 10-20mm for swing clearance.

Step 6. Fit Latch, Drop Bolt and Throwover Loop (if needed)

Latch - position and fix at a comfortable height.
Drop Bolt - Fix to the gate that closes second, ensuring it drops cleanly into the ground or socket - for double gates.
Throwover Loop - Fix to the top of the primary gate (the gate that closes first) to secure both gates when shut - for double gates.