There are several ways to reinforce a fence gate to keep it from sagging. A section of preassembled fencing can be used as a gate as long as extra reinforcement is used. Here’s how to go about it:

  1. Cut the panel to the correct size for the gate opening.
  2. Rip 2” thick pressure treated lumber to the width of the existing rails (stringers) on the gate.
  3. Lay the gate on a flat surface, and square it up.
  4. Measure the distance between the top and bottom rails.
  5. Cut the boards to length so they are a tight fit between the rails on each end of the gate.
  6. Secure the two vertical framing boards even with each end of gate using corrosion resistant screws.
  7. Measure and cut a diagonal support board to fit snuggly inside the opposing corners of the gate frame.
  8. Screw the diagonal support in place to transfer the weight of the gate to the hinge side and keep the gate from sagging.
  9. Screw the pickets to the diagonal gate support to provide more support strength.
  10. In addition, wide gates can be reinforced using an anti-sag kit consisting of two corner brackets, a steel cable, and a turnbuckle to tighten the cable as needed.

Watch the video above to find out more.


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Danny Lipford

Founder

Danny Lipford is a home improvement expert and television personality who started his remodeling business, Lipford Construction, at the age of 21 in Mobile, Alabama. He gained national recognition as the host of the nationally syndicated television show, Today's Homeowner with Danny Lipford, which started as a small cable show in Mobile. Danny's expertise in home improvement has also led him to be a contributor to popular magazines and websites and the go-to source for advice on everything related to the home. He has made over 200 national television appearances and served as the home improvement expert for CBS's The Early Show and The Weather Channel for over a decade. Danny is also the founder of 3 Echoes Content Studio, TodaysHomeowner.com, and Checking In With Chelsea, a décor and lifestyle blog.

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