Choosing the Right Wooden Garden Gate for Your Home
A well-chosen wooden garden gate not only secures your property but also adds charm, privacy, and character to your outdoor space. Whether you’re completing a new fence installation, replacing an old gate, or upgrading your garden’s appearance, selecting the right style and fittings makes all the difference.
At Clarke Fencing, we supply a wide range of wooden garden gates, from classic picket gates to robust closeboard gates and ornate European decorative gates — each designed to complement your fencing and enhance your garden entrance.
Standard Garden Gate Widths
Most garden gates are built around a 900mm (3ft) width, which is considered the most practical size for residential use.
This width allows for easy access with wheelbarrows, bins, and garden equipment, without compromising privacy or taking up too much space.
However, custom widths are also available for wider driveways or smaller decorative entrances. When choosing your size, ensure your gate opening is measured post-to-post and allows clearance for hinges and latches.
Common Materials and Construction
All our timber garden gates are manufactured from pressure-treated wood, designed for outdoor durability and resistance against rot, decay, and weathering.
Our closeboard and picket gates are made using heavy-duty framework with vertical boards for strength and privacy, while our European-style gates feature premium joinery and decorative lattice or curved tops for a more ornamental look.
Types of Wooden Garden Gates
1. Closeboard Gates
Closeboard gates are built using vertical featheredge boards fixed to sturdy bracing for maximum strength and privacy.
They’re ideal for pairing with closeboard fence panels or closeboard fencing systems, offering a seamless, traditional look.
These gates are commonly used for side entrances, back gardens, or anywhere privacy and durability are essential.
2. Picket Gates
Picket gates are a timeless choice for front gardens or cottage-style entrances, providing visibility and charm while marking boundaries neatly.
They match perfectly with our picket fencing range and can be finished in planed green or sawn brown depending on your preference.
For full installation guidance, visit our dedicated how-to guides:
3. European Decorative Gates
European gates add a premium touch to modern and traditional gardens alike.
Made with detailed joinery and matching decorative European fence panels, they combine visual appeal with high-quality timber and secure framework — perfect for creating an elegant boundary or entryway.
Typical Gate Hardware and Ironmongery
Most wooden garden gates are hung from sturdy wooden gate posts using a metal ironmongery kit that typically includes:
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T-hinges: Available in galvanised or epoxy black finishes for long-lasting weather resistance.
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Ring latch: A traditional mechanism allowing the gate to open from both sides.
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Pad bolt: Common for secondary locking or securing gates with a padlock.
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Euro profile long throw lock: For enhanced security, choose a Euro profile long throw lock — available as keyed & thumb-turn or keyed both sides for added protection.
These components can be fitted to new or existing wooden posts, ensuring a secure and functional installation that suits your level of privacy and safety needs.
Installation Tips
When fitting your gate, always check that posts are installed firmly at least 600mm (2ft) into the ground, ideally set using Postcrete for stability.
Use corrosion-resistant fixings and ensure your hinges are level to prevent sagging. It’s recommended to leave a 5mm gap between the gate and post for free movement in all weather conditions.
For step-by-step guidance, see our in-depth blog:
Finishing and Maintenance
To extend the lifespan of your wooden garden gate:
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Apply a timber preservative or wood stain annually.
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Regularly check hinge screws and latches for movement.
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Keep the bottom edge clear of soil or gravel to prevent moisture absorption.
External Resources
For additional tips and inspiration, explore these trusted resources:
