How to Build a Driveway Gate

Building a driveway gate can be as simple as building a piece of fencing and then reinforcing it with a crossbar for strength and attaching hinges and a latch.  If you want a driveway gate to last under use, and at the same time afford you an attractive entrance to your property, you can buy a gate kit from your local hardware store or lumberyard or build one yourself from carefully constructed materials

Having taken careful measurements of the opening for your driveway gate including the width of the posts the gate will be mounted on, purchase the kit or materials accordingly.

1. Dig the Post Holes & Reinforce - A posthole digger will need to be used to dig holes for a depth of at least 18” for the posts you will hang your gate upon.  These posts will need to be inserted and held completely level and steady for the introduction of concrete into the hole to hold them firmly in place when the weight of the gate is attached to them.  Be aware that playing children may be climbing onto and swinging this gate and the posts mustn’t shift.  Allow the concrete to set up and dry for at least 24-48 hours before starting to frame out your gate.


2. Cut Lumber for Entire Gate & Framing – According to the driveway gate kit you purchased or your own design, cut out all of the lumber for the gate.  First, cut the lumber for the frame, then the slats and supporting braces.  Measure everything twice before cutting.  Then, lay the pieces out on your driveway and assemble as if assembling a jigsaw puzzle. Construct the frame from the heavier thicknesses of wood at least 1 ½ to 2 inches thick.  Attach them to each other except for one side, using decking screws and bolts as these won’t rust.  Cut slits in bottom and top frame pieces to slide the slats in.


3. Assemble Slats & Install Hardware – Start with the smaller pieces if the gate has a curved top, assemble each slat into its groove and when they are all in, attach the remaining side of the frame.  Now, you can attach the hinges to one side and latch on the other.  Attach any braces for strength and you are ready to hang it as soon as you round up some help for doing so.


4. Hanging the Gate – Lay gate out on the driveway as it will hang and attach to it on the top and bottom two long pieces of lumber using clamps.  Once it is tightly secure you will need help in lifting it into place as it will hang, allowing room beneath for the gate to swing freely, and attach to the two fence posts the hinges with the strongest bolts. Once attached, you can now adjust the latch if necessary. Release the clamps and two pieces of lumber.  Either paint or varnish to protect the wood and it will hold up well over time.