Fence and Gate Guide

If you have an urban patio, you’ll want fencing and a gate to protect your valuables and provide security and privacy. An iron fence and iron gate are really quite easy to install over an existing concrete patio. All you need for the fence and gate installation are enough iron fence sections to enclose your patio, double cast iron gates, the fence and gate hardware, cap blocks and mortar, a power drill capable of drilling through cement and metal, a tape measure and chalk, and the ability to measure and be precise.

Start out by deciding where you want your double gate sections to go and mark off the opening. Set the first section into position and make sure it sits level. If the section is not of the type that will stand up by itself, you’ll need help from a friend to hold it up while you work.

Take out the L-shaped metal brackets that came in the package and place them on the concrete surface in their final position. Mark where they go, then take away the gate and brackets and drill holes in the concrete for the retaining bolts.

Put the section back into its original position and put the brackets over the holes you just drilled. The holes will need nail anchors hammered into them before you screw in the bolts.

Now drill holes in the posts using the L-shaped metal brackets as a template. Take out the steel screws and mount the brackets to the gate posts.

Position the second section next to the one you just installed. Check the angle and level carefully so the two halves match up. You’ll need to shim the second section to position it next to the first. Repeat the drilling and mounting process with the metal brackets that you followed for the first section. Remove the shims.

Now install the gate latches by marking where you want it to go. Drill some small holes into the gate and attach the latch to the gate frame with screws.

Install fencing by positioning the section of fence that connects to the nearest wall between the wall and the gate. Mark off where you’ll mount the fence to the gate and to the wall, using the mounting tabs as templates.

Then take away the gate and brackets and drill holes in the wall for the retaining bolts. Return the fence section to its original position and fasten it into place with masonry screws.

Now move to the other side and install the next fence section. Have a friend hold it in place while you work, or use cinder blocks to support it.

Don’t attach posts to the cap blocks until you’ve put up all of the fence sections. You need to square off the enclosure before you fasten it down.

Keep fastening iron fence sections to each other until you’ve completed all the sides.