A gate is an attractive yet functional addition to a garden. Not only does it provide access to the enclosed area, but it increases security and also enhances aesthetics depending on the material used. Recycle natural material such as tree branches to create an arched garden gate in the desired specifications that adds rustic charm to the area. The low-cost, low-maintenance gate stands up to inclement weather without weakening, while blending well with the landscape.
Other People Are Reading
Things you need
- Tape measure
- Small nails
- Garden wire
- Chicken wire
- Galvanised staples
- Hinges and latch
Measure the opening between the fence or boundary walls to decide the width of the gate.
Design the gate on paper in your desired dimensions. Draw a simple yet sturdy gate made of a pair of parallel vertical beams that extend to form an arch over two horizontal crosspieces.
Cut tree limbs for the gate using a handsaw. Cut two same-size branches for the top and bottom horizontal crosspieces that are identical in length to the gate's width. Cut two identical branches for the vertical supports to match the height of the wall, posts or beams, between which you will hang the gate, and which you will arch across, along the opposite vertical branch. Determine the size of the arch you want in the gate before determining the length of both the vertical branches. Pinch any foliage or buds from the branches.
Arrange the parallel vertical branches on an even surface. Space them to match the length of the horizontal crosspieces (or the gate's width). Align the ends so they lie at the same level.
Nail the first horizontal crosspiece to the lower ends of the vertical support branches, 8 inches above the corners.
Lay the other horizontal crosspiece higher up on the two vertical branches. Mark the point on the vertical branches where you will begin to form the arch and nail each end of the horizontal crosspiece 1 inch above the mark. Align both the marks before nailing the crosspiece so it is even. The gate's framework is complete.
Arch the left vertical support branch across the gate and over towards the parallel branch. Secure this branch to the corresponding point on the right branch by winding wire around the point several times.
Arch the right vertical support toward the left vertical support. Form the arch 1 inch above the joint with the horizontal crosspiece. Join both arches by wrapping lengths of wire spaced 3 to 4 inches apart.
Lay chicken wire over the framework and join it with staples. Alternatively, nail lengths of wood horizontally and vertically between the framework.
Lift the gate so its base lies a few inches above the ground and does not brush against it. Mark two evenly spaced spots on the side for hinges, fastening these with nails. Nail the latch to the other side of the gate.
- 20 of the funniest online reviews ever
- 14 Biggest lies people tell in online dating sites
- Hilarious things Google thinks you're trying to search for