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Garden gates
There are two ways to think of garden gates: as guards against the outside world or as entries into an inside world. Generally, the former type includes gates that are taller and solid and conceal privacy of a backyard. The latter type is often more open and oftentimes serves a more decorative purpose.
Of course, no matter which type of garden gates you choose to have, you need to be sure that it is functional as possible, as well as stylish. Here are some tips:
• Wide enough – be sure that the gate is wide enough to allow you to easily push your lawnmower, wheelbarrow, garbage cans, or other such items through. It is also best if it allows easy access to persons in wheelchairs.
• Latch – the latch should be easy to open and close. Consider whether or not you want the latch to be accessible from the other side (for instance, with a backyard privacy gate, you may want it to only be easy to open from within the backyard). Often all it takes to make a gate latch accessible from each side is a piece of string woven through to the other side, but this depends on the latch. A new, shiny latch, can greatly update an old gate.
• Frame – make sure that the frame of the gate is supportive enough to endure the wear that the gate will surely go through. The gate posts must be secure, the hardware strong, and the frame well-braced. For additional strength, continue the frame overhead. This can also serve a decorative function. The frame must, of course, be tall enough to easily walk beneath, because it will not open with the gate. The same idea can be applied below ground – connect the posts with an underground concrete strip.
• Hinges – for taller gates, be sure to use 3 hinges, not just two. Unless you have 2-way hinges (ones that allow the gate to open in both directions), you will need a stop to keep the gate from swinging open in the wrong direction. Consider buying ones that match the latch – it is ok if they stand out. Think of hinges and latches as “jewelry” for garden gates.
• Material – garden gates can be made of a variety of materials. While it is generally best for the gate to be made from the same materials as the fence, it is not necessary. In fact, wood and aluminum, for instance, can go very nicely together.
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