Table of Contents
Installing the gate and making the end stopThe part of the plywood wall panels that overlaps the door and window frame, and protrudes into the door or window area and covers any gaps between the door/window and the surrounding frame. It acts as a stop for the door and also stops the rain getting in.
Putting the gate in was no problem, simply a matter of standing it up with the wheels over the track.
Stopping the gate
I wanted something that would be able to stop the gate without too much of a jolt should somebody push open the gate with an almighty force.
I thought that I would put a postsee PILE at the end of the track, with three springs to cushion the blow of a swiftly opened gate – after all, it was a relatively heavy gate.
I acquired three springs that I thought would do the trick and then drilled three holes in the post the same diameter as the springs.
I drilled the holes 2″ (50mm) deep in a 4″x4″ (100mm x 100mm) post.
To hold the springs in, I hammered a nailA short nail with a large flat head used for securing roofing felt, plasterboard, sheet metal to wood etc. through the side of the post into the bottom of each spring.
Where are the plans?
Very well thought-out and designed gate. Mongo Impressed!
I just got a quote for $5100 for a metal gate of similar size. That’s a bit too steep, so I too am going to build my own gate using 26gage, 2’X 3″ galvanized downspout (I’m a retired sheet metal contractor)for the frame, then T-111 plywood to cover. I’ll install some wood structure inside to attach the cover.
Since this proposed gate is on an alley, it doesn’t need to be too attractive. Just sturdy. “Prison wall” is the look I’m going for. As I expect to have no help with the construction and installation, the trick will be to build it in place on the track.
Thanks, Les, for the inspiration! You’re right about protecting the gate, inside and out from the elements. Los Angeles is “mild-weather climate,” but wind and rain (no snow or hurricanes) are concerns.
I hope to use the money I’ll save on a nice scuba vacation in Thailand or the Philippines.
I’ve spent a little time online searching for the appropriate hardware; wheels. track, and rollers can all be found on Amazon.com if not locally sourced. I haven’t priced much of anything, but hope to keep the cost (aside from my labor) to well under $1000.