Single or double, and how wide
A single gate suits most side and rear entrances, and it is the simplest to hang and keep square. A double pair makes sense where you want to bring a mower, a trailer or a larger load through, since two leaves share the weight and each one stays lighter. Think about the widest thing that will pass through, then add a margin on both sides so you are not scraping handles on the posts.
As a rough guide, people on foot need a modest gap, a wheelbarrow or bin needs more, and anything wider than a ride-on mower calls for a double gate. Measure the actual items rather than guessing. It is common to find that a gate sized for walking becomes a daily irritation once the bins have to go out through it.
Sloping ground and clearance
Where levels change along a boundary, as they often do around Dudley, the bottom of the gate has to follow the ground without catching. A gate hung across a rising path needs extra clearance on the high side, and sometimes the frame itself is stepped or the path is trimmed back a little. Look at the ground across the full swing, not only at the closed position.
On a slope, the hanging post should go on the lower side if possible, so the gate swings up and over rising ground instead of into it. Gravel boards and a firm base under the posts keep soil from washing away. If the ground drops sharply, we may fix the posts first and then build the gate to suit the final levels.
Hinges, latches, bracing and matching the fence
A braced timber frame keeps its shape better than a gate made only of boards. The diagonal should rise from the hinge side to the latch side, so the load travels back down to the hanging post. Strong strap hinges and a latch that closes firmly with one hand are worth choosing, because the cheap versions loosen quickly in weather.
Match the style to the fence beside it, whether that is closeboard, lapped panels or something simpler. Same height, same colour and a similar board pattern make the gate feel part of the boundary. A solid gate gives privacy, while a gate with gaps lets light through and costs a little less timber. Pick whichever suits the garden.
Quick tips
- Measure the widest item you move through the gate, then choose an opening a little wider than that.
- Choose a double gate when a mower or trailer needs regular access, because two lighter leaves hang better than one huge one.
- On sloping ground, check the clearance across the whole swing and not only with the gate shut.
- Use a braced frame with strong hinges, and match the height and finish to the fence either side.
If you need a gate in Dudley, DY1, or want an old one put right, call us or send a photo showing the fence and where it is. We also work in Tipton and Sedgley. There is no pressure, only honest advice on what would suit the garden.
Frequently asked questions
When is a double gate a better choice than a single one?
A double pair suits larger loads such as a mower or trailer, since two leaves share the weight and each stays lighter. Anything wider than a ride-on mower calls for one. A single gate suits most side and rear entrances in Dudley.
How do I deal with a gate on sloping ground?
Look at the ground across the full swing, not just the closed position. A rising path needs extra clearance on the high side, and the hanging post should go on the lower side if possible. Around Dudley we may fix posts first, then build to suit.
Garden fencing installers in Dudley · All advice guides