Safety guidelines for deck gates.
How to build a wood gate for my deck.
I apologize if this point was already brought up again great instructions.
One thing to note is the 4 x 41 pieces is assuming your entrance width is 41.
How to build gates for a wood deck checking in with chelsea features a new diy project how to build gates for a wood deck today s homeowner tv co host chelsea lipford wolf has two children who need protection from steep deck stairs.
To build a wooden gate start by measuring your gate opening and cutting top bottom and side planks that are slightly smaller than the opening.
So make sure you measure the width.
This allows enough swing room at the bottom of the gate to deal with terrain challenges.
Make a second measurement for the height of your gate while keeping in mind the bottom edge can t be more than 4 above the deck.
Putting a gate at the top of your deck stairs is a simple safety solution.
The balusters must be spaced closely enough to prevent a 4 inch sphere from passing between them and the distance between the bottom of the gate and the decking should be no more than 4 inches when the gate is closed.
Then use deck screws to attach the top and bottom planks to the side planks making sure it s square.
Before you start building consider safety.
Mark and cut the top of your gate to height.
If you want your gate to be invisible look just like part of the fence with hinges and latches on the inside make sure you precut a few inches off the bottom of your pickets or panel before you build the gate.
The gate should open onto the deck not onto the stairs.
With a gate in place your deck becomes a secure play area for your children and pets.
It specifies a minimum height of 42 inches above the deck surface and that is the height you should make your gate.
I m off to lowes.