A garden gate is more than just a door to the backyard. It represents a passage from the world outside into the personal sanctuary that is your garden. It will visually define and add beauty to the yard, but garden gates are functional as well as aesthetically beautiful. They provide privacy for your family and add a level security to the yard by discouraging intruders. A well-constructed garden gate will keep your kids and pets in, or other people’s kids and pets out, whichever the case may be and protect your plants from becoming a wild animal buffet.
Most garden gates fall into the standard size range from 4-6 feet high and 32 to 36 inches wide, although a gate can be built to accommodate any size. It is important to make sure the width of the gate will accommodate your yard equipment. Consider the size of everything from a wheelbarrow to a tractor or maybe even a bobcat should you ever need one. An opening wider than 5 feet needs a two-piece gate with a latch in the middle. A gate taller than 4 feet needs three hinges, instead of two, to reinforce the structure. Self-closing hinges are a smart choice if you have children or pets that need protection from a pool or pond in the yard.
Garden gates can be made from many materials. The most common are wood and metal, although low maintenance choices like vinyl and composite are becoming popular. Less traditional materials are also used to build gates and you are limited only by your imagination.
It is important that a wood garden gate be made of pressure treated materials or coated with a preservative. Avoid any wood that is split, warped or has knots that can compromise the structure of the gate. Stain or paint should be applied to exposed wood to help protect the gate from the elements. A metal gate is a good choice because it will last a long time. Although it may cost more initially, it will require less maintenance over time. Vinyl and composite gates can be found at most retail garden centers. They are rust proof and come in a variety of neutral colors that do not require paint making them virtually maintenance free. An old fashioned stand by is the chain link garden gate. While not the most attractive option at first, it can be beautiful when covered with a vine or a climbing rose. Garden gates can be ornamental and improve the look and feel of your garden, while they function and work to keep your family and pets safe and secure.