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FENCES & GATES

Gate Won’t Close

A gate that will not close may have sagged, swollen, shifted with the post or become misaligned at the latch.

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Stabilise loose panels and heavy gates first

Stop work if a fence could fall onto people, vehicles or a public area. Check for buried services before digging around posts.

MOST LIKELY CAUSES

Start with posts, fixings and alignment

Sagging gate The latch side has dropped.
Swollen timber Moisture has increased the gate width.
Post movement Hinge or latch posts have shifted.
Latch misalignment The latch and keep no longer meet.
◫ Symptom variations Match the movement, lean or latching pattern. ⌄
  • Gate catches on ground
  • Latch misses the keep
  • Gate closes only when lifted
  • Problem worsens after rain
  • Gap is uneven
✓ Quick checks Safe checks before dismantling the fence or gate. ⌄
  1. Check both posts for movement.
  2. Look for ground contact.
  3. Inspect hinges and fixings.
  4. Check the timber for swelling.
  5. Mark where the latch meets the keep.
Important: Correct failed posts and structure before adjusting panels, hinges or latches.
1 Step 1 — Correct structural movement Make the smallest safe correction and retest. ⌄

Repair posts and hinges before moving the latch.

2 Step 2 — Relieve minor rubbing Make the smallest safe correction and retest. ⌄

Dry and adjust only the exact high spot.

3 Step 3 — Realign the latch Make the smallest safe correction and retest. ⌄

Move the keep after the gate hangs correctly.

⌁ Why the problem happens How wind, weight, moisture and fixings affect the structure. ⌄

Small changes at hinges or posts create large movement at the latch edge.

⌘ Advanced checks Further diagnosis for persistent outdoor faults. ⌄
  1. Measure gate diagonals.
  2. Check post plumb.
  3. Inspect brace direction.
  4. Assess timber moisture.
  5. Check ground heave or new paving.
◇ Tools and information needed Useful items for accurate checks. ⌄
  • Spirit level
  • Screwdrivers
  • Tape measure
  • Plane or sandpaper
  • Pencil
▣ Parts that may need replacing Common fencing and gate components linked to this fault. ⌄
  • Hinges
  • Exterior screws
  • Latch and keep
  • Post repair spur
  • Timber sealer
! When to call a professional Conditions that should end basic DIY diagnosis. ⌄
  • The gate is heavy or unstable.
  • Posts are rotten.
  • The gate opens onto a public route.
  • The gate is part of a security system.
  • Major trimming or rehanging is needed.
? Frequently asked questions Common fence and gate questions. ⌄

Should I move the latch first?

No. Check sagging and post movement first.

Why is it worse in wet weather?

Timber may swell and reduce clearance.

Can I trim the gate?

Only after drying it and confirming the structure is sound.