Installation Tips For Timber Field Gates

Field gates are a traditional and versatile way to mark the boundary of your property. They are available in a variety of sizes and materials, to suit your needs.

Sizes and Materials

Field gates are typically 1.2m (4ft) high and are available in widths from 910mm (3ft) up to 3.66m (12ft). They are made from three types of timber: treated softwood, Iroko hardwood, and Oak hardwood. Softwood gates are the most common and are available in stock at all Hampshire Fencers branches. Iroko and Oak gates are available to order.

Gate Posts

Gate posts are typically 2.1m long and are made from 175 x 175mm, 200 x 200mm, or 150 x 150mm timber. The size of the gate post will depend on the width of the gate.

Latches and Locking

There are several latches available for field gates, including self-closing, spring, and central mortice latches. You can also use a chain to lock a field gate.

Treatment

Softwood gates are treated, but it is recommended that they are treated again with a suitable treatment on completion of installation. Hardwood gates have not been treated, but we would recommend that you apply a treatment or oil to them. This will help to protect the timber from the elements and prevent it from checking and warping.

Handing of the Gate

Each gate has a specific handing, Left or Right, as it is built to be self-supporting and stronger on one side. To determine the correct hand to buy, you need to visualize the gate from the front face and note which side the hanging post is situated. If it is on the right, then you require a right-hand gate.

Hanging Field Gates

Gates can be hung centrally or on the back/front face of the posts, depending on how you require the gate/s to open. It is worth noting that if the gate is on the front of your property, next to a public highway, it is illegal to open the gate outwards obstructing the highway at any time. Hung centrally, the gate will only open to just over 90 degrees but possibly either way. Face mounted, it will open 180 degrees but only in one direction.

Sloping Ground

If the ground slopes up behind the gate, it is possible to open the gate so it rises as it opens. When centrally hung, a rising hinge set can be used, which allows the bottom hinge to pivot on an off-center pin. When fitted correctly, this will rise the gate 25mm (1″) for every 305mm (1ft) of the gates width.

Double Gates

Double gates may have equal leaves or unequal leaves, with the latter allowing for a pedestrian gate and a driveway gate in the same set up. The latching method usually adopted for pairs is a drop over loop and a garage door bolt to secure one leaf.

Ask the Experts

For further advice about your project, don’t hesitate to speak to our friendly experts at your local Hampshire Fencers branch. We have a wide range of high-quality fencing and landscaping materials available, either to click and collect from your local branch or for home delivery.