RESOURCES - CHAIN LINK GATE INSTALLATION

Objective:  By mastering this lesson, you will be able to successfully measure for and install chain link gates.

Equipment:  Socket set, hammer, come-a-longs, level and pliers.

Key Questions:

1. How do I measure for gates?
2. How do I install a cantilever gate?
3. How do I install a rolling gate?
4. What are the most common safety obstacles to be aware of when installing gates?

How do I measure for gates?

When it comes to gates, it's important to take multiple measurements to ensure accuracy. Along a level plane, measure both the top and bottom of the gate without allowing the tape to slope or angle. Keep your dimensions precise to within + 1/8". It's common for these measurements to differ, in which case the smaller dimension should be used for building the gate. Make sure to clearly communicate this information on your as-built document shortly after setting the posts.

Rolling gates: To get the right measurements, measure from the inside of one gate post to the inside of the other, and from the inside of the adjoining line posts that will provide support when the gate is fully open. Keep in mind that the distance between the inside of line posts should not exceed 8 feet.

Cantilever gates: To measure correctly, start by measuring from the inside of the latch posts to the first gate or roller post, which is the post nearest to the opening. Next, measure from the outside of the gate or roller gate posts, using the illustration as a guide, and measure outside to outside.

 

How do I install a cantilever gate? 

For a cantilever gate to roll smoothly in both directions, it's crucial to install it on a level surface, without any additional gravitational pull from the weight of the gate. While minor adjustments can be made to accommodate some slope, too much slope could make the gate unsafe, especially when rolling downhill. To install a cantilever gate:

1. When installing the two bottom cantilever rollers, position them on the inside of the fence while the fabric is on the outside, with the rollers about 1 inch off the ground. Place a rail across the two rollers, then put a level on the rail and adjust the rollers up or down until the rail is level. Additionally, ensure that the rollers are adjusted in such a way that the gate won't slide into the slope of the ground. Finally, tighten the rollers securely in place.
2. Install the two top cantilever rollers in a position where they will capture the gate when it's in place. Hand-tighten the rollers.
3. Install the gate on the two bottom rollers. Stand the gate up and slide the two rollers over it until they are onto the gate. With the gate touching both bottom rollers and balanced in-between them, tighten the two top rollers, leaving a ½” clearance between the rollers and the top of the gate frame (track or 2.5” pipe). Securely tighten the rollers.
4. Move the gate forward and backward through the opening. If it binds, raise one of the top rollers.
5. Adjust the rollers as necessary to keep the gate as close to the ground as possible, but do not position them below grade or buried since snow will accumulate and freeze around the rollers during winter.
6. Avoid digging a trench for the gate to fully open since snow will freeze the gate in place during winter.
7. Once you've made all the final adjustments, securely tighten all rollers.
8. Install the latch assembly. For a gate operator, use the large “V” receiver that allows the gate to be channeled into the receiver. If you're manually operating the gate, use a cantilever locking device that accommodates a padlock.

 

How do I install a rolling gate? 

A rolling gate is a suitable option for applications where there isn't enough space to store a cantilever gate and for openings with a considerable slope. However, you need a smooth surface to roll the gate using ground wheels along the opening. To install a rolling gate:

1. Ensure that the posts supporting the track for your rolling gate are set on 8-foot centers and use at least 2 ½” Sch 40 posts.
2. A rolling gate has two wheels attached to the back vertical support of the gate, which run along a track installed inside the fence.
3. Install universal track brackets one foot from the top and bottom of the fence. Ensure that the U-bolt is below the track sleeve. Install enough brackets to support the required number of 8-foot lengths of track to cover the full opening. For example, a 20-foot opening will require three lengths of track (24’).
4. Measure the distance between brackets and cut your 1 5/8” Sch 40 pipe track accordingly. Install it between brackets, ensuring it's tight to prevent creating a seam for the wheels to get caught up. Keep the top and bottom tracks consistently the same distance apart to prevent binding on the rear track wheels.
5. Install the rear track wheels on the rear vertical support of the gate, approximately one foot from the top and bottom of the gate. Install them on the outside face of the gate, so they ride on top of the track. Hand-tighten.
6. Install the double wheel carrier on the bottom horizontal member of the gate, as far forward as possible.
7. Place the gate in the opening, with both rear track wheels on top of the track. Adjust the rear track wheels, so both wheels bear down on the track. Ensure the lower guide on the wheels captures the track, preventing lifting the gate off the track. The guide should not bind while traveling the track. Tighten the wheels.
8. Roll the gate through the opening and adjust the rear track wheels as necessary. The double wheel assembly has an axle trim bolt that allows you to control the direction of the gate as it rolls through the opening. Adjust as necessary
9. Secure the offset lock n' latch onto the latch post using two end bands that fit around it. Ensure that when the gate is fully closed, the tab on the latch engages and captures the gate frame, allowing you to padlock the latch.
10. Adjust the double wheel assembly back on the frame if necessary to ensure that the gate engages the latch.
11. Make sure to securely tighten all nut and bolt connections to prevent any future movement.

What are the most common safety obstacles to be aware of when installing gates?

Lifting. It is important to note that gates tend to be weighty and cumbersome, which can make them difficult to handle. Therefore, it is crucial to employ proper lifting techniques and have sufficient assistance or equipment available. Due to their unwieldy nature, it is not uncommon to experience back strain or injury if handled improperly.

Fall Hazard. Gates can pose a significant risk of falling. It is common for installers to prop a gate against an opening during hinge installation, but a sudden gust of wind or bump can cause it to fall and injure the person below. To prevent this, it is essential to secure the gate using a bungee cord, chain, or rope fastened to the fence. In the case of a cantilever gate, a bungee cord is the recommended tool to allow the gate to be moved in and out from the rollers without requiring the removal of the cord.

Cuts. Since gates have components that move, there is a risk of getting your fingers caught in the cantilever roller while making adjustments.

Motorized Hazards. The potential danger posed by motorized gates cannot be underestimated, as their usage has been associated with a significant increase in injuries over the years. This is why the installation of motorized gates is regulated by the UL 325 Code. When installing these gates, there is a risk of getting trapped in the rollers, between a picket and post, or in the opening itself. More information on these hazards will be provided later on.