Installing tee hinges is a practical DIY task often required for gates, allowing them to swing open smoothly.
Understanding Tee Hinges
Tee hinges are robust hinges shaped like a 'T', commonly used on garden gates and side gates. Their design provides strength, particularly on wooden gates, by spreading the load across the gate's surface with the long strap section.
Step-by-Step Guide to Installing Tee Hinges
Here's a straightforward process for installing tee hinges on your gate:
Materials & Tools You Might Need
- Tee hinges (usually come in pairs)
- Appropriate screws (often supplied with hinges, or choose exterior grade)
- Pencil
- Tape measure
- Drill/Driver
- Drill bits (for pilot holes and driving screws)
- Level (optional, but helpful)
Step 1: Prepare Your Gate
Ensure your gate and the post it will be attached to are ready for hardware. Identify the side of the gate where the hinges will be mounted (usually the side that swings open away from you).
Step 2: Position the Hinges
Place the hinges in the desired position on your gate. This is typically done on the horizontal supporting beams of the gate frame for maximum strength. It is crucial to ensure the strap is horizontal. This can be achieved by finding the centre of the horizontal supporting beams and drawing a pencil line as a guide. Align the top edge of the hinge strap with this guide line.
Step 3: Mark Screw Holes
Once the hinge is correctly positioned and aligned with your guide line, use your pencil to mark the location of each screw hole through the hinge.
Step 4: Drill Pilot Holes (Recommended)
For easier installation and to prevent splitting the wood, drill pilot holes at each marked location. Choose a drill bit slightly smaller than the diameter of your screws.
Step 5: Fix Hinges to the Gate
Align the hinge over the pilot holes (or marks if not drilling pilot holes). You can then fix the hinges into place with screws. Drive the screws in until they are snug, but avoid overtightening, which can strip the wood or break the screw. Repeat for all hinges.
Step 6: Position the Gate and Mark Post Holes
With the hinges secured to the gate, position the gate against the post where it will hang. Use shims or blocks underneath to hold the gate at the desired height and leave a small gap at the bottom. Ensure the gate is plumb (vertical). Mark the screw hole locations on the post through the hinge flap.
Step 7: Fix Hinges to the Post
Move the gate away or prop it securely. Drill pilot holes on the post at the marked locations. Reposition the gate, aligning the hinge flaps with the pilot holes. Drive screws through the hinge flap into the post to secure the gate.
Key Considerations
- Use exterior-grade screws and hinges if installing outdoors to prevent rust.
- Ensure hinges are aligned vertically on the gate to prevent binding.
- Check the gate's swing after installation and adjust screw tightness or shimming as needed.
