StandardGates :: FAQ

Our most frequently asked questions and answers available to you at any time.
If you have questions that aren’t answered here, please call us at (800) 879-8793 or email us as at help@standardgates.com.

1. What do I need to measure to be able to order the correct size gate?2. How deep do I need to set my posts?3. How do I make the posts level, and/or know which to set first?4. What is the tallest gate that you manufacture?5. What type of power is needed to power the gates?6. What type of maintenance is needed for the gates?7. If the ground moves and the gate posts sag is there a way to re-adjust the gate?8. If I do not want to install the gate myself, how do I chose the correct contractor?

 

1. What do I need to measure to be able to order the correct size gate?

For Swinging Gates, you need to first pick a location that you would like the gate to be installed. You need to then measure your maximum opening (ex: From the edge of your house to the edge of the fence). Take the maximum opening distance, subtract 4” from that distance which will give yourself approximately 2” on either side for clearance. Once you have that dimension, you can build and order your gate using that dimension

For Sliding Gates, you need to also pick a location that you would like the gate to be installed. Measure the opening clearance you would like to have and then add 8” for the 2 support posts (ex: you would like a 14’ clearance between the posts, you need to add 8” for the 2 4” support posts, making the gate you order a 14’8” gate). Please note that once you determine the gate size to be ordered, you will need to make sure you have double that distance so that the gate will be able to open fully. If you are automating the gate, you will need an additional 2.5’ of clearance when the gate is in its fully opened position.

 

2. How deep do I need to set my posts?

We recommend digging a 18” Diameter by 36” deep hole, however how deep you set the posts depends on the type of gate you order. If you purchase an arched top gate, you will need to set the posts a maximum of 35” into the ground. If you purchase a flat top gate, you will need to set the posts a maximum of 23” into the ground.

 

3. How do I make the posts level, and/or know which to set first?

There are a number of different ways to ensure your posts are level to each other. The first thing you need to do is find out if there is any slope in the ground between the 2 posts, and if you are installing a swinging gate, you will need to determine if there is any slope when the gate/s will be in the open position. You can do this either by using a laser level (found at many hardware stores), or you can use a 4’ level and string line. Once you determine if there is any slope in both directions, you then set your post allowing for 2” of clearance underneath the gate at the highest elevation. This means if you’re installing a double swing gate and there is 1” of slope from post to post and no slope in the open position, you set the post with the highest elevation at 35” for arched top and 23” for flat top. The opposite post will be set 1” higher out of the ground or 34” for arched top and 22” for flat top.

 

4. What is the tallest gate that you manufacture?

Our Flat top gates are 6’ and our arched gates are 5’ sides with a 6’ center. However if you add finials to the gate, the height increases by 8”.

 

5. What type of power is needed to power the gates?

A designated 110v outlet is required for the gate operator’s transformer to be plugged into. Other option is a 10w-30w solar panel directly wired to the operator.

 

6. What type of maintenance is needed for the gates?

Our Standard Iron gates require you to grease the hinges every 6months-1year. You might need to touch up/wipe down the gate every couple months to restore its shine. For Redwood gates, we recommend restaining the gates once every year for the first 3 years. We use Behr Premium Semi-Transparent Fence board Stain. Once a heavy coat is established you can restain the wood every 3-4 years. For the Ironwood gates, we recommend you re-oil the gates every year for the first 3 years. Once a heavy coat is established you can re-oil every 2-3 years.

 

7. If the ground moves and the gate posts sag is there a way to re-adjust the gate?

Yes, we use heavy duty adjustable hinges that allow you to make minor adjustments to replumb the gates if there is any movement in the posts or ground

 

8. If I do not want to install the gate myself, how do I chose the correct contractor?

You can simply ask your neighbors who installed their gates and if they did a good job. You can use Yelp or Handy or another site that gives you reviews on contractors. Most fencing contractors should be able to install the gate, and follow our how to install guide on our website: StandardGates.com