Tools and Materials
Product costs, availability and item numbers may vary online or by market.
Building the Gate
Assemble the vinyl fence gate following the manufacturer’s instructions. Many manufacturers offer kits that can be used to construct a gate from a fence panel. Typically, all you need to do is cut down the panel, then add the gate kit components with vinyl cement. Other manufacturers require that you purchase a specific gate panel of a standard width.
Setting Gate Posts
It’s a good idea to install your gate when you come to it as you’re setting your posts and panels. That way you can be sure your gate posts are precisely located. Your first gate post will be installed with the panel that precedes it. Once the gate has been assembled, you can set the other gate post.
As the gate will put additional stress on the adjacent posts, install a 4-inch-by-4-inch treated lumber post inside the vinyl post, flush with the side of the post where the hardware will attach and secure with screws for stability. The wood also gives the hardware something to grab onto.
Before beginning any excavation, check for underground utilities. Call the North America One Call Referral Service at 1-888-258-0808 (or just dial 811) for a national directory of utility companies.
Instructions
Hanging the Gate
Install the gate hardware on the gate’s rails as directed by the manufacturer.