Wooden gate

JEN22

My back gate has dropped. The gate wont lock now as the bolts don't meet


What do I do to correct it?

firefox1956

Why has it dropped ??
Loose hinges / fittings etc. ??
Gate post moving??
More info is needed before anybody can give you a sensible answer

warehouse

Wood moves, it contracts and expands depending on weather and quite possibly changes shape over time. I had this with my back gate so bought a bolt/locking system that has bigger tolerances for movement and fitted that instead. Even then I had to move it slightly after a couple of years.

J_B

We keep an old spade by the gate - put it under the gate to lift it up so we can bolt it. Simples!

Geoff1963

I think we need some photos of the relevant parts, or at least a description of the design.

Imagine calling the receptionist of a vet and saying, "My animal is unwell, what should I do ?"

Strider590

Rehang the gate or reposition the latch, those are your choices.

Hong_Kong_Phooey.

Strider590 wrote: »

Rehang the gate or reposition the latch, those are your choices.

Well that's two choices but there are more.

JEN22

Im not sure why its dropped to be honest. Ive tried lifting it but it wont budge.


think it may have been banging with the wind when its been left open


I will try to lift it with a spade and get back to you

Ebe_Scrooge

As per previous replies, to do a "proper" job you need to find out why it's moved, and correct the source of the problem.

However, being pragmatic - wooden gates and posts do move / swell / shrink, with the best will in the world. Unscrewing the latch & bolt, and re-positioning them so that they mate together properly is a very quick and easy fix - and should be well within the scope of even the most inexperienced DIY-er who has access to a screwdriver.

Chrishazle

I have 2 wooden gates where I have to re-position the bolt keeps every summer and winter - so there are now 2 sets of screw holes about 1/4" apart, takes me just a couple of minutes with my little 10.8V drill driver to move the keeps!

paul130l

Hello, every wooden gate is prone to movement due to weather. Even when stained or painted a gate can increase or decrease in size. It will go back to original shape but could take time. The easiest way to adjust the gates when this happens is to have adjustable gate hinges. That way you can quickly alter the gate in 5 mins or so.