Fred wrote:

Hi,

I would like to put a gate across the passage that leads to our
garden. I would like a solid "door style" gate, about 3'3" wide and 6'
tall.

I know you use a Z shape brace on the back to hold it all together but
do you just butt the planks together or is it better to use tongued
and grooved wood? Would you glue them or would nails/bolts be enough?

Nails for the weather proof T&G board. Screws and glue for the brace.


I know 18mm T&G is readily available and often used as floorboards; is
T&G available in thicker sizes?

Why do you need more? Also use hard wood (Oak, Ash etc) if you can
afford it as it lasts alot longer

What's the best way to mount it? Onto a stout fence post?

Wood rots in 20 years or less so I used 3"X3" attached to short
concrete posts, 3' in the ground.


What is the best way to lock it shut? Would you use a padlocked bolt
or could you somehow incorporate a mortice lock?

I used a digi-code lock, with a draw bolt on the inside. But anything
can be used, as long as its weather proof.



BTW would you cramp the wood together whilst the glue sets and if so,

The screws will hold it.

is it worth paying for Irwin cramps? They seem to cost twice as much
as the other makes. Are they worth the extra or are you just paying
for the name?

TIA

You will need to allow for expansion of the boards during wet weather -
use 1/8" packers.

Coach bolt on each of the three hinges (for effect) and a couple on the
latch block to stop to stop theves unscrewing it.



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zaax
Frustration casues accidents: allow faster traffic to overtake.