Gate Repair Tips

Gate post repair

1. The panel or a pair of panels, usually framed as an oblong or square.
2. Sets of metal hinges.

The hinges attach the fence gate panel to the post and allow it to swing freely open and closed.

Most panels have one hinge at the bottom and another at the top. If a gate is sagging, the problem is usually the supporting posts, the hinge connection, or both. Read the information below to learn how to get an uneven gate to hang properly again.

How to Repair a Sagging Fence Gate

1. Examine both gateposts. Check them to make sure they are level (perfectly horizontal) and plumb (perfectly straight vertically). One or both of your gateposts may not be exactly upright. You can eyeball this, or use a spirit level for greater accuracy.
2. Examine the hinges on the fence gate. Each hinge is typically attached with two sets of lag bolts. A lag bolt (sometimes called a lag screw) is a steel screw used for wood projects. It looks like a screw, but the top is flat, thick, and hexagonal. Note the size of the bolt — 1/4-inch, 1/2-inch, and 3/8-inch are common lag bolt sizes — in case you have to replace one that is rusted or missing.

1. Disconnect the bottom hinge first. Even if the hinge looks perfectly fine, go ahead and disconnect it by removing the lag bolts with a ratchet or open-ended box wrench.
2. Now tackle the top hinge. Partially disconnect the hinge by removing only the lower lag bolt.
3. Lift and shore up the leaning post. Set stones, bricks or blocks around the post to prop it up to the desired upright position. A spirit level will give you an accurate reading. You may have to dig around the post to reset it or replace a wooden one that has warped or rotted. Always call the Dig Safe phone number before digging.