How to repair a gate?

A properly installed gate should be able to last years before needing maintenance or repairs. It is important that utmost care is taken and attention to detail employed when installing a gate and this is simply to ensure that the gate can take the longest time before breaking down and needing repairs. Gate repairs are usually broken down into three categories.

The most common failure or breakdown is usually experienced on the hinges of the gate. This is because they always loosen over time due to usage. The second most commonly repaired is the posts on where the hinges are attached to. This is basically because of the wear and tear due to the different weather conditions as experienced by the posts. The third category is usually the sagging of gates as a result of a mixture of conditions on the posts and hinges. Repairs are normally done to correct the sagging part by tightening hinges.

How to repair a gate (DIY guide)

There are basically two ways to tackle this. Once your gate is spoilt and needs repairs, it is either you make it yourself or you have a mechanic do it for you. Here are a few steps
You may need to open and close the gate for a number of times to determine what repairs are needed. Try and determine what causes the problem, for example – whether it is the opening or the closing bit. Then look for the bolts or screws that need to be tightened.

If the problem is with the bolts, then ensure that the same are tightened both in the post and in the gate. If the hinges have bolts and nuts, be sure to use one wrench on each side of the gate to tighten them. Test the gate once all bolts are fitted. If this fixes it, return the gate to normal use.

If the gate is attached to a wall you may need to tighten the fasteners. For wobbly posts it would be highly advised that you simply replace the posts with new fresh ones. This provides a sturdy foundation on which the gate can hang on. Test the gate once the post is level and secure; if it functions correctly, return it to normal use.

You can also straighten a sagging gate by installing a lift kit. Use a framing square to determine if the gate is square to itself. Lift the gate to adjust it if needed and tighten all screws or nails in the gate itself. Install corner brackets of the gate lift at the upper corner of the hinge side and the lower corner of the latch side. Consult installation instructions with your hardware for specifics.

If the gate is metallic and needs some filling up then welding would be the best option. Welding will generally produce a stronger bond than soldering or brazing because the original materials are melted to create a juncture that is nearly as strong as or sometimes even stronger than surrounding materials.
If you still are unable to repair your gate on your help using the above steps then it would be highly recommended that you contact a professional mechanic.