Building a fence gate

Step 5 Attaching the Hinges

Make sure you're still level. You don't want the gate to swing one way or the other all the time, it should be nicely balanced. Then again, if you didn't get your posts plumb, then you'll have some issues.

Now take note of where the top, middle and bottom horizontals meet the post on the hinge side and mark the upper and lower limits of each 2x4.

Now set the gate aside and remove the temporary nail. I know...all that work....Now find a scrap of 2x4 about a foot long or so and the first hinge.

Place the scrap against the face of the post and then the hinge between the markings. This will ensure your brackets will be plumb to the length of the post and promote good alignment. Do this with all three brackets. Once you've marked all the holes, drill them.

NOTE: It's a good idea to keep using the scrap 2x4 even while ratcheting down the bolts.

Once that is accomplished, get the gate back into an aligned position, don't forget the shim.
Now mark your next set of holes for the other side of the hinges, drill your holes and ratchet the lag screws as well.

All the while keep checking on aligments and finally see how she swings.