Step 1
Measure down from one end of an 8-foot 4-by-4-inch post by eight inches. Mark this point and draw an upright rectangle 2 by 4 inches in size below it.
Center the rectangle along the width of the post.
Step 2
Cut out the drawn rectangle with a jigsaw, going all the way through the post to make a hole. Measure, draw and cut out a rectangle with the other 8-foot post in the same manner.
Step 3
Lay the two prepared posts on the ground running parallel with the hole openings facing in (not up and down). Space the boards eight feet apart.
Place the 2-by-4-inch board between the posts running perpendicularly.
Step 4
Slip the board ends through the holes in the posts and adjust the posts so the board extends beyond the posts by 10 inches on each side. Insert a screw through each post and into the board inside it once you’re satisfied with the overhang.
Step 5
Set the 9-foot post parallel to the 2-by-4 board against the top of the vertical post, making the 9-foot post and 8-foot board eight inches apart. Adjust the top post so it overhangs the vertical posts by 16 inches.
Step 6
Place a T-shaped bracket over the intersection of the posts at one top corner of the gate. Secure the bracket with screws.
Place a second T-bracket along the other top corner. Flip the gate over and secure the remaining two T-brackets to the top corners along this side.
Step 7
Dig two holes six feet apart along the path where you want to place the gate. Make the holes 18 inches deep.
Fill the holes with 4 to 6 inches of gravel. Stand the gate upright and set the ends of the 8-foot posts into the prepared holes.
Pack the hole area around each post with soil to secure.
Things You Will Need - 2 posts, 4 by 4 inches, 8 feet long
- 1 board, 2 by 4 inches, 8 feet long
- 1 post, 4 by 4 inches, 9 feet long
- Tape measure
- Jigsaw
- 2-inch-long wood screws
- Drill
- 4 T-shaped brackets
- Posthole digger
- Gravel
Tips
- Stain the gate and seal it with a water-resistant sealant, or paint it in a traditional red.
- Cut the ends of the 9-foot post on a 45-degree angle and arrange the diagonal cut to face the ground when you put the gate together for a more traditional look.