If you're in need of a gate, then why not build it yourself. Using this method, you can make a custom sized gate, that is lightweight yet rigid and quite affordable. The measurements will differ depending on what size gate you need, however the principle model remains the same.

I needed a rather large gate - 6 feet high, and 4 feet across. I wanted the gate to provide privacy, and to be sturdy, yet light. Considering 24 square feet is a big surface, I was concerned with stability and decided to go with brackets to stiffen up the frame considerably without adding extra weight. Now, in order to keep the gate lightweight, yet provide privacy, I'm going to be using cedar boards for the frame and cedar pickets for screening. So for the frame I need center support to attach the pickets too.

Step 1: Materials & Tools

So for this build - you're going to need wood, I'm using cedar because it's lightweight and perfect to use outdoors.

Pieces Needed:

2 long side rails (the height of your gate)
4 middle pieces (width of your gate minus the width of the side rails)
Set of brackets to secure the frame
Nailing strips
Cedar pickets

Tools Needed:

Drill
Staple gun
Exterior screws
Staples

Step 2: Cutting & Assembling

Step 1 - Cutting up the wood

Start with cutting up your wood to size. I started with a big piece of cedar and had to use the circular saw to make the first cut, and then I completed the cuts on the table saw. I cut up the brackets on the miter saw.

Once I had all the pieces for the frame cut up, I laid them out on the grass to see how everything fit.

Step 2 - Assembling the Frame

Now let's move on to assembling. To put together the frame, pre-drill first and secure with screws. Also screw in the brackets and attach the nailing strips.

Step 3- Attach the pickets
Pickets are great to use for screening because they're already 4 feet across, plus they're cheap and lightweight. Line up the pickets and staple them into the nailing strips using a staple gun.

Step 3: Install the Gate

Step 4 - Hang the gate

To attach the gate, screw in hinges and hang the gate either from a fence post or other structure.

Step 5 - Put in a closing system

It can be practical to put in a closing / latching system. I decided to go simple. I cut out a hook on the bandsaw which I attached to the wall with screws. I drilled a hole into the gate and created a loop with a rope that falls into the hook.

Step 4: Conclusion - Watch the Video

To get a better perspective, make sure you check out the video that goes over all the steps. This project is easy to customize to make it fit your specific requirements.