How to make a gate with your own hands: we make sliding gates using a rail mechanism. How to make swing gates with your own hands? How to make a wide gate

If you are planning to make a gate with your own hands, you will need step-by-step instructions that will help you calculate all the nuances of the work and will facilitate the process of creating them.

Before purchasing the necessary materials, decide on the type of gate that is suitable for a particular case and a convenient method for installing it.

Types of structures

There are many types of gates, which can be made of different materials and equipped with special mechanisms. A wide selection allows you to create homemade gates based on the characteristics of the room or area, your needs and frequency of use.

Before making gates, you should study the main types of designs that are popular.

Sliding

Sliding canvases are divided into several categories. Depending on your preferences, you can choose the option you need. For each type of structure, you will need to clear a free area along the fence so that the sash can open freely.

There are cantilever sliding structures, suspended and sliding. The structure of such canvases involves moving along rails and other metal profiles.

Hanging options are not popular for use on private property, since the entry height is limited by the upper profile to which the canvas is fixed. The valves also move along this profile.

Some country house owners install fan designs, which received this name due to their appearance.

Sliding doors, which move on a rail located along the wall, are also not popular in snowy and northern cities.

In order for the sash of sliding structures to move freely along the rail, it will be necessary to constantly remove ice and other debris, which is not always comfortable in winter.

Cantilever leaves are considered the most optimal design for sliding gates. The canvas is rigidly attached to the beam, which moves along the cantilever assembly and moves the sashes behind it. Despite the fact that the structure of the products is complex, they work great in the winter season, since the sash does not come into contact with the ground.

Tilt&Turn

This design is optimal for garage conditions. They are not suitable for installation in the yard, since the gates limit the entry height. The canvas should function freely by lifting and sliding the sash under the ceiling of the room.

Swing

Such structures with a door are often installed on the fence in the private sector. Swing gates are based on pillars, two of which are located at the width of the door leaf, and the third pillar is located next to the gate, if it is located next to the structure.

Rolled

These designs have recently appeared on the market. Gates are made of steel strips, which are combined into a flexible sheet. When it is necessary to open the gate, they begin to roll up and wrap around the shaft. This solution allows you to drive close to the room.

Folding

Folding gates are known to many as “accordion gates”. The door can be opened upwards and sideways. There are sealing gaskets between the metal mesh. Designs that open upward have become widespread.

Manufacturing Features

Each type of gate has its own design features. Before starting the manufacturing process, you should study the structure diagrams of the canvas and work out an action plan. Swing gates are not an exception to this issue. Even a beginner who has not previously worked with metal products can make a swing gate from corrugated sheets with his own hands.

To make products, you will need skills in working with a drill, welding, screwdriver, construction tape and grinder. The design of the products is created in such a way that the use of free space should be accompanied by maximum functionality. The reliability of the gate is ensured by roller blocks, which are located in the lower part of the profile beam and move due to the opening or closing of the doors.

There are several features of this type of gate that distinguish it from other designs:

  • when assembling the canvas, push-button corner connectors are used, thanks to which it is possible to prevent the sashes from sagging during use;
  • The material fasteners are hidden, thereby preserving the decorative properties of the gate. Also, this solution prevents foreign objects from entering the space between the profile;
  • The doors are fastened using three-section hinges. Details allow you to extend the service life of the structure.

Studying the drawings of a standard sheet made of corrugated sheets, you will notice that a frame made of a square metal profile is used as the basis of the structure. As an alternative, a thick-walled pipe with a diameter of 30 mm is used.

To strengthen the doors, a metal vein is used. It should be positioned horizontally. Such reinforcement allows you to maintain the geometry of the canvas.

You can secure the doors using electric welding or metal screws. Since the corrugated sheet is light, two strong loops with a diameter of 20 mm will be enough for it. Metal pipes with a diameter of 60-100 mm can act as a load-bearing support.

The gate leaves are fastened on the basis of the fence that is present on the site. If you are planning to install a brick fence, consider installing embedded joints between the bricks in advance. Hinged supports will be welded to them.

The optimal width of entrance gates on private property is 3 m. These dimensions are sufficient for a truck or car to enter the yard. The height of the gate should not exceed 2 meters.

L-shaped pins can be used as a locking mechanism. They should be located at the bottom of the sashes. Special clamps are dug into the ground, which are metal tubes whose diameter exceeds the thickness of the locking mechanism.

To ensure that the new gate fits harmoniously into the overall interior of the site, you can use corrugated sheets to finish the frame part. As a rule, the material is attached to the frame of the canvas.

Maintain a distance from the ground, which should be 50-70 mm.

Material selection

The type of material from which the gate will be made is influenced by the dimensions of the structure, its weight and other factors. Typically, the frames for the sashes are made from a profile pipe with a cross-section of 60x40 mm. Choose metal whose thickness is 1.5-2 mm.

The cross-sectional size also depends on the weight of the gate, but experts recommend making a choice based on the following indicators:

  • if the total weight of the gate leaves does not exceed 150 kg, you can use a pipe whose cross-section is 80x80 mm. The metal thickness should be 4 mm;
  • when metal gates weigh from 150-300 kg, it is necessary to use a pipe with a cross-section of 100x100 mm and a thickness of 5 mm;
  • if the weight of the structure exceeds 300 kg, iron pipes with a cross-section of 140x140 mm and a material thickness of 5 mm are suitable for you.

To create racks, you can use brick, wood or concrete. When choosing a material, you should study the properties and its resistance to expected loads.

Hinges can have adjustable or non-adjustable mechanisms. Make sure that the material used is of high quality, as the hinges must support the weight of the fabric.

The lock may have a mechanical structure or operate on the basis of electromechanics. The choice should be made based on your preferences. You will also need paint to paint the racks and metal profile cladding.

The sheathing can be made of any material. Many people make cladding from profiles; some owners of country houses choose combined options made of wood and metal or PVC. Any option you like will be suitable for this purpose.

If you are planning to create an automatic gate, make the frame more durable. Automation can be installed immediately or later.

Dimensions

The best option is to build a gate at the same time as a fence. However, many people are faced with a situation where they need to widen their driveway or replace an old product. In this case, you will need to make an accurate calculation of the future gate.

Taking measurements and calculating the required amount of material, take into account the surface of the driveways. If your area is equipped with an asphalt, concrete or tiled surface, you can leave a clearance of 5 cm. If there is grass on the road, increase the clearance to 10 cm for comfortable opening of the gate.

Do not forget to leave a gap between the sashes so that in the future it will be possible to level out the displacement of the supports.

Tools and accessories

Gates can have a variety of structures. Many people equip their canvases with built-in gates for convenience. Before creating a gate, you will need to carefully consider how the finished canvas will look, draw a diagram or sketch of the structure. This decision will help you decide on the tools and materials that will be required to create the canvas.

The standard list of components for creating gates consists of the following items:

  • sheathing for sashes, support pipes;
  • reinforcement for creating stiffeners;
  • a pipe made of a profile or a square of metal for the frame of the structure;
  • primer, material for painting;
  • bolts, latches or bolt mechanisms;
  • hinges for sashes, guides and closers if necessary.

You will also need the following tools:

  • construction cord made of nylon;
  • welding machine;
  • hammer;
  • screwdriver or drill;
  • electric grinder;
  • special scissors for metal.

When planning a new gate, you will need to pay special attention to the dimensions of the structure and the presence of a gate. Due to the large sashes, the weight of the entire structure increases, so the frame should be made of reinforced material.

How to do it yourself?

Gates are manufactured in stages. The process is divided into two steps:

  • installation of racks for hanging the canvas;
  • creation of swing gates.

You can replace the stages, but the posts for the gate structure must stand for at least seven days, after which you can hang the frame on them. In order not to waste time, you can start welding.

Installation of supports

Supports can be made from:

  • profile pipe;
  • concrete pillars. You can buy a finished product or fill it yourself;
  • brick or natural stone.
  • wooden beam.

Installation of supports can be carried out using the following methods:

  • driving. The driving depth should be about 1.5 meters. This method is considered the fastest and most economical. When choosing this method, you should carefully monitor the level so that the gate does not warp;
  • concreting with reinforcement. You will need to strengthen the pillar with concrete.

Step-by-step instructions for installing supports:

  • if you decide to do concreting, you will need to drill a pit with a minimum depth of 1 meter. Drilling must be done with a drill whose diameter is more than 200 mm.
  • The depth of the pit will depend on the degree of soil freezing in your region. The width of the sides can be determined using the quality of the soil and the size of the support itself.
  • create a concrete cushion 150-200 mm high. It should consist of sand and crushed stone. The cushion is used to prevent deepening of the racks;
  • then you will need to mount the post and level it using a building level. After leveling the support, you can begin pouring;
  • The concreted structure must last for a week. This is the minimum period required for concrete to harden. Do not forget to periodically moisten the concrete with water to prevent cracks from appearing;
  • to increase the reliability of the supports, it will be necessary to make reinforcement and install a pair of reinforcing embeds under the hinges.

Creating sashes

Before you begin construction of the structure, you should decide on the location and appearance of the gate. The place where the products are installed can influence the appearance of all elements.

If you are planning to install a gate in your backyard, at the entrance to a garden area, or to create a fence for a future construction site, you will need to choose simple materials. For the front gate you should choose more expensive and presentable products.

A universal guide for making gates with your own hands:

  • prepare a drawing of the future structure. Using the diagram, you can make an accurate calculation of the required materials;
  • The gate frame must correspond to the finishing dimensions. By observing this condition, you can simplify the entire work process and will not encounter connecting seams on the front part of the canvas;
  • when making calculations, you should use the indicators of the working width of finishing materials;
  • to create components for the frame, you will need to cut the pipe to the required length and sand it;
  • Grinding is required to clean products from rust. If there is oil grease on the metal, it can be removed using solvents.

Welding

When interacting with welding, do not forget about safety precautions. If you do not have enough experience, contact specialists. Using this method, you can improve the quality of work and get an attractive design.

Joints should be made in such a way that water does not flow into the pipe.. If the joints are welded incorrectly, snow or water will get into the pipe, which will begin to increase in volume in warm weather. This will lead to expansion of the walls of the product and deformation of the entire structure.

If you are welding the outer and inner frames, a staggered order will be required. In this way, it is possible to prevent ruptures of welding seams due to thermal expansion.

Stiffening ribs influence resistance to wind loads. If you are sewing a fence using finishing material, weld the pipe in the middle part of the outer seam. In this way you will mark the place where the sheathing material will be attached.

Welding of the loop should be done to the posts and to the frame. If you used bricks to make the pillars, but no reinforcement was removed, you will need to attach a channel to the brick, and then start welding the hinges.

Primer

No matter what material you use to create the frame, it will require priming. The primer extends the life of the paint and makes the application process more comfortable. Welding areas should be primed more thoroughly.

Painting the frame

Before painting, all dust should be removed from the frame. To paint the part, you can use any type of paint. Most people use a spray gun as it ensures a more even coat application. Using a brush delays the process, but reduces paint consumption.

With this step-by-step guide, you can make your own gate and simplify the process as much as possible.

To learn how to install a gate with your own hands, see the following video.

Beautiful examples and options

A beautifully decorated gate will attract attention to the site and demonstrate the good taste of its owner. Openwork canvases are popular. Decorative doors look expensive and sophisticated. The inner side of the structure can be sheathed with polycarbonate sheets. Externally, such gates look like a real work of art.

The products can be installed in a country house or on a country plot. With patterned elements you can show the individuality of your territory.

Stained glass inserts on the entrance gates give the entire area an impressive and unusual look. The designs demonstrate their brightness and originality, attracting the attention of others. You can choose any design depending on your imagination. The style of the idea must be combined with the rest of the design components.

If you want to give your site a more austere look, pay attention to solid metal gates with forged elements. They will harmoniously combine metal with decorative patterns. The chosen design will show the good taste of its owner and will hide the area from prying eyes.

On the site that borders the plantings, you can install gates made of natural materials. You can use a stone for support. Such canvases look beautiful against the backdrop of nature. Natural components will last a long time if you treat the surface with protective products.

The strength of the gate is guaranteed by stone supports. This design is convenient, since when replacing the main leaf there is no need to dismantle the entire gate.

Compact white gates always attract attention. The white color scheme gives the products lightness and weightlessness. Although the gates have a catchy color, they will blend organically with the overall style of the area.

The design will attract the attention of passers-by, since there is an opinion that only wealthy people can afford such gates.

Sliding products with an original design will look good in the country. They can save space on your site and will delight you with their modern style.

Many people equip gates with wooden gates, which can be used not only as an entrance to the territory, but also for zoning space.

In most cases, the construction of infrastructure facilities on a summer cottage does not require the qualified intervention of builders. Since erecting a fence and organizing an entrance are the primary tasks when arranging any home, it is most advisable to understand the issues of what types of entrance structures exist and which materials are most rational to use when installing them, as well as how to make a gate in a dacha.

To successfully make any type of gate structure with your own hands, you need three main components - facing material, tools and time. Each garden plot and internal area is characterized by the use of a certain type of gate, since each of them has its own opening and installation technology, drawings, recommended finishing, as well as consumables. To determine the optimal one, it is necessary to identify the properties, advantages and disadvantages of the most used types of gates.

The principle of operation of swing gates is determined by their structure, which includes two leaves that swing open in directions opposite to each other. The construction of such gates will help to save a lot of time when organizing entry and exit.

The main advantages are:

  • ease of installation;
  • reliability;
  • durability.

Flaws:

  • the presence of a cleared space for opening the gate leaves, which must be maintained in proper condition during the winter period;
  • in the case of using the gate in automatic mode, you will need to purchase two sets of motors for each of the leaves, which will significantly affect the total cost.

Having an undeniable advantage over the previous type, sliding gates are a structure consisting of one leaf, moving parallel to the equipped support pillars, along the fence line, in a certain direction.

This category of gates, in turn, is divided into three subgroups, which are suspended, cantilever and rail, therefore, when purchasing one or another set of such gates, it is necessary to understand the specifics of construction and the features of further operation. Thus, the suspended type involves the manufacture of a special hinged safety beam, which is the basis for fastening and subsequent movement of the sashes.

The cantilever type involves the installation of cantilever mechanisms and a channel beam, as well as the presence of several additional meters for optimal rollback of the gate, and the rail version is characterized by the placement of a guide rail at the bottom of the structure.

The advantages of such gates are:

  • compactness and no need to prepare a cleared space for opening the doors;
  • possibility of using automation;
  • practicality;
  • moderate pricing policy;
  • organization of a wide passage, as well as the convenience of remote control of the gate).

Flaws:

  • constant monitoring of the cleanliness and availability of lubrication of roller mechanisms;
  • carrying out a number of preparatory procedures (calculating the distance for rolling back the doors and having a perfectly level fence);
  • basic construction skills and knowledge of installation features.

Any owner of a country home can cope with the construction of such a structure by following the step-by-step instructions of the craftsmen, however, due to the high cost of component materials and devices, as well as the high chance of making mistakes in the calculations or assembly of the structure, it is more advisable to seek help from specialists. In this case, you can count on a free specialist visit and warranty service for the agreed period.

Being a type of sliding structures, sliding gates consist of two doors that slide apart in two opposite directions. Based on the technology of movement, sliding gates are also divided into component groups, just like the type of gate described above. The defining advantage of such an opening mechanism is the reduction in the overall weight of the gate by distributing the load across two frames, but this advantage is achieved by using two sets of motors, which significantly increases the final cost.

Among the huge variety of materials presented in the assortments of construction stores, the materials that have become most widespread when arranging entrance gates include metal and wood. In this matter, the choice of one or another raw material mainly depends on the financial capabilities of the owner.

Of course, preference in this category of materials is given to corrugated sheets, since it has a number of important distinctive advantages, however, like every raw material, it has some disadvantages.

The advantages of this material are:

  • strength due to the rigidity of the base;
  • moderate cost;
  • ease of installation;
  • resistance to harmful environmental influences;
  • wide choice of colors;
  • duration of operation.

Flaws:

  • if the protective shell of the sheet is slightly damaged, corrosion may occur;
  • noise when exposed to precipitation.

In the presented category of materials, we can also highlight such a representative as chain-link mesh. Gates of this type have a high light transmission capacity, have low windage and are light in weight. In addition, the mesh is fastened in a short time and without exhausting effort.

Nowadays, wood-based gates are a rare occurrence. This circumstance is due to the endless desire for safety and durability, which are easily achieved by using metal products. Making the frame for the doors and cladding from wood over time leads to sagging of the gate and deformation of the entire structure due to its bulkiness and high specific weight. Of course, the use of wood as a basis for gates, the construction of country houses and site decorations highlights the natural component of the appearance and allows you to feel unity with nature, however, it requires special processing of each element and subsequent regular seasonal repairs.

Among the advantages of such raw materials are:

  • low cost;
  • availability of material;
  • a minimum number of tools and consumables, which significantly saves the budget;
  • pleasant aesthetics;
  • quick installation;
  • ease of processing.

However, the pleasant positive characteristics are largely offset by the negative properties of such a material. The main ones:

  • short period of operation;
  • low strength;
  • exposure to negative environmental factors;
  • fear of sudden changes in temperature and increased moisture content;
  • tendency to ignite.

If, nevertheless, you are determined to use wood for cladding the “calling card” of your personal plot, then it is most advisable to carry out this process on a metal frame made of a profile pipe or any other metal support floors.

The main purpose of the support base is to securely fix all the components of the gate. As a rule, the foundation is represented by a reinforced rectangular concrete block placed along the perimeter of the proposed installation of the structure being built. In our case, concrete pouring is carried out away from the driveway, in the internal area of ​​the house. When manufacturing swing gates, the foundation should be located in the direction of opening of the leaves to reduce the load on the hinges when open.

The issue of high-quality pouring of a concrete base when making metal gates is especially acute, since it ensures uniform distribution of the pressure of metal products on the soil, protecting the entire structure from shrinkage and distortions.

When starting to carry out work on arranging this element, you should clearly understand that the quality of the foundation will be the same as the functioning of the gate. When constructing massive objects, it is most rational to prepare deep foundations, for small structures - lightweight supports.

A useful activity preceding the procedure for pouring a reliable foundation is taking samples and conducting a soil analysis along the perimeter of the future installation sites. Knowing all the characteristics of the soil will subsequently ensure the stability of the gate and determine the optimal type of foundation.

Based on the above recommendations, each owner of a suburban area will be able to easily select the most suitable gate manufacturing option for him and implement it in the shortest possible time. Any work performed by oneself allows not only to significantly reduce the costs of constructing a particular object, but also to clearly understand the structure of each connecting component, which will subsequently significantly simplify possible maintenance and repair processes.

Video

You can learn about the manufacture of different types of gates by watching the videos we offer:

Schemes and drawings

The operating mechanism of swing gates is quite simple, but automated sliding gates are more complex to manufacture. We hope the drawings and diagrams we offer will help you understand this issue:

Reliable, easy to use and easy to manufacture, metal gates are perfect for installation in suburban areas, summer cottages and any other objects. The assembly and installation of the structure in question can be done with your own hands. It’s quite simple and much more profitable than entrusting the same work to professionals. Most often, swing metal gates are installed on individual plots. This is the easiest system to assemble, the device of which can be handled with your own hands without any problems.

Before starting work on installing metal gates, it is necessary to prepare a detailed, competent design of the structure being built. The most important thing is to determine the optimal dimensions.

So, if trucks will pass through the gate, the width of the structure should be 350-400 cm. For passenger cars, a width of 250 cm will be sufficient.

As for the height, for gates in private areas, 200-250 cm is usually sufficient. Everything, again, depends on the size of the car.

Additionally, provide in the design some gap between the ground surface and the gate frame. This gap will allow you to open the gate in snowy weather.

Gate design features

The design of metal gates is based on a frame. To assemble the frame, an ordinary pipe with a diameter of 2-4 cm is usually used. The frame can also be made from a profile with a square cross-section.

Each gate leaf must be equipped with 1-2 horizontal veins, thanks to which a higher rigidity of the system will be ensured. Instead of a horizontal arrangement of veins, you can choose other options, for example, placing one transverse horizontal vein and two diagonal ones.

To assemble the gate yourself, you need to have skills in handling an angle grinder, basic measuring instruments, a welding machine, a screwdriver, and a drill. If you do not have the proper skills, you will have to spend some time learning.

You can use self-tapping screws to secure the sashes, but it is best to use standard fastening using hinges. For one sash, a pair of hinges with a diameter of 2 or 3 cm is enough.

Support posts are made of profiled pipe 2x4 cm or round pipe with a diameter of 7-7.6 cm.

The supports can be erected directly from pipes dug into the ground and secured with concrete mortar. There is also an option according to which the pipes are installed in brick pillars. There must be a couple of embedded parts in the brickwork. Hinged posts of homemade gates will be welded to them.

The locking mechanism of metal gates is usually shaped like the letter “L” and is made of an iron pin. Elements of the mechanism are installed at the bottom of each gate leaf.

In the place where the shutters are fixed, special mounting holes are created in the ground. It is convenient to use metal pipes for their installation. Select pipes such that their internal diameter is approximately 1 cm greater than the thickness of the locking mechanism. It is advisable that the length of these pipes does not exceed 500 mm.

For covering a metal frame, it is most convenient to use profiled sheets. Modern corrugated board fits perfectly into the design of any site. Choose a material that matches well with the fence. The corrugated sheet is usually fixed at a height of about 50-70 mm from the base.

What you need for work: list of tools and materials

Prepare in advance everything you will need in the process of performing the work in question.

Kit for self-assembly of metal gates

1. Pipes of the previously mentioned sizes.

2. Brick.

3. Cement grade not lower than M400.

5. Metal profile.

7. Hammer.

8. Rivets.

9. Self-tapping screws.

10. Pencil.

11. Measuring tools (protractor, tape measure).

12. Emery.

13. Bulgarian.

14. Brush and paint (if you plan to paint the gate after installation).

Step-by-step instructions for assembling and installing the gate

The first stage is the manufacture of supports

Prepare materials for assembling gate supports and assemble them into a single structure. You can use pipes and metal profiles as a base. You will also need a channel. It is important that the width of the channel shelf is at least 10 cm. The stronger the support, the longer the entire structure will last.

Stage two – installation of supports

Gate support pillars will be subject to increased load, especially when closing and opening the structure. Therefore, at the stage of installing supports, you will be required to take much more responsibility than when installing an adjacent fence.

The supports are dug into the ground and filled with concrete mortar or covered with a brick base. There is also the option of installing supports directly on brick foundations, but for a beginner it is very difficult to perform such installation correctly.

Make canopies from garage hinges. Select the number of hinges in accordance with the size and weight of the sashes. In most cases, two hinges per sash are sufficient. If the sashes are very massive, increase the total number of hinges to six.

Weld steel plates about 5 mm thick to both sides of each hinge. The plates should be welded over the entire contact area.

The third stage is the installation of support pillars

Make these racks from square metal profiles. Cut a couple of pieces the same length. The immediate length of these parts should be approximately 20-30 cm less than the height of the gate leaves.

Weld the hinge plates to the finished posts. You should end up with two structures that are identical in size and spatial orientation.

Secure the finished structures to the installed supports. Carry out the fastening in such a way that there is a gap of no more than 3-4 mm wide between the supporting pillar and the supporting structure.

Cut the upper part of the metal profile to a suitable length and secure the cut to the top points of the support posts.

Completely fasten all structural elements using a welding machine. Perform spot welding.

The fourth stage is the final one

Install two central posts in the center of the metal gate. Carry out the installation so that there is a gap of about 1 cm between the mentioned elements. The central pillars must be “grooved” by welding. The steel plates are thoroughly welded to the support posts.

To strengthen a homemade gate, take a sheet of steel about 50 mm thick and cut it into 8 parts. Secure the resulting parts to the corners of the gate leaves. Finally, you need to divide the structure into 2 parts using an ordinary grinder to get two identical sashes.

If possible, make gaps of a couple of millimeters in the hinges. These gaps will prevent the gate leaves from moving in the future.

Finally, you can finish the finished gate with your preferred material, for example, paint it.

There are many tools and devices available on the modern market that allow you to automate homemade metal gates. If you are already tired of moving the shutters manually, buy an ordinary linear electric drive, and the problem will be solved!

The automation tool under consideration consists of two linear electric drives and a control unit. The design also includes an electromagnetic lock, a special antenna and a signal lamp.

An ordinary household power supply of 200 W is suitable for powering the automation equipment.

Gate automation can be performed according to three different methods. The specific method is selected taking into account the direction in which the gate leaves open. They can open inward, outward, or inward with modifications to the support pillars. For beginners, it is best to give preference to the option with the doors opening outward.

The control unit can be installed on the right or left. Specific installation recommendations are provided in the accompanying instructions. The instructions also indicate the requirements for wire cross-section. Check all these points before starting automation work.

The installation process itself varies for different models of automation systems. Consider a specific scheme on an individual basis. You will find it in the instructions for your device.

It is important to know one common installation feature for all systems - the drive must be placed at a certain distance from the support pole. You can also find information about the optimal distance in the instructions for your device.

After installing the control unit, using the gate will become much more convenient. You can control the position of the shutters from a special stationary remote control or a portable device in the form of a miniature key fob. There are also designs that automatically open when a car approaches them, but this option is more suitable for sliding gates.

Thus, there is absolutely nothing complicated in building metal gates yourself. You only need to determine the optimal dimensions of the structure, assemble the base, secure all the necessary elements, and finally, if such a desire arises, perform simple work to automate the system. Follow the instructions and everything will definitely work out.

Good luck!

Video - DIY metal gates

A garage is a structure that receives special attention, especially in terms of burglary resistance. And an element such as a gate must have double strength and reliability, and, of course, an attractive appearance. Traditionally, garage doors are a swing structure of two leaves, hung on a frame. Making them yourself is not a problem if you have the skills to work with simple plumbing tools and a welding machine. This is what we will discuss in the article: about the options for swing gates, about the manufacturing technology and the nuances of the installation process.

Types of garage doors

In addition to the fact that swing garage doors are traditional and very reliable, they have other advantages.

  1. The cost of construction is cheaper than all other models.
  2. The swing modification can be insulated using various thermal insulation materials.
  3. Can be installed in limited space.
  4. They can open outside or inside the garage, depending on the owner’s requirements.
  5. Possibility of installing an electric motor for automatic opening.

The only big drawback is that free space is required to open the doors of the structure. This is sometimes problematic in winter, when snow piles up in drifts in front of the garage. Therefore, you have to swing a shovel.

The disadvantage of swing gates is that you have to clear the area of ​​snow from the area in front of them

In addition to swing gates, other types are installed in garages.

Folding

This is a sectional type of gate, the elements of which are installed vertically and connected to each other using a hinge method. The outer sections are attached, like the swing sections, to the frame with hinges. Additional fastening - along the upper or lower guide. Sections are made from different materials, most often from aluminum alloys or wood.

Design advantages:

  • unusual appearance,
  • ease of opening and closing,
  • do not take up much space when open,
  • sections can be individually changed, repaired,
  • low price.

Cons: rapid wear and low protective functions.

Folding gates

Lift-and-swivel

Purely structurally, it is a solid shield that covers the entire entrance opening. To open, the gate is raised and rotated 90° so that it is at the top in the horizontal plane. For this, a system of levers, a gearbox and an electric motor are used.

Pros of the model:

  • high reliability,
  • when open, the gate does not take up any space,
  • amenable to insulation,
  • amenable to automation.
  • high installation accuracy is required,
  • the gate remains in the opening, reducing its height by 20-30 cm,
  • It is not recommended to use them intensively.

Up and over gates

Lifting sectional

This is a structure of several sections located horizontally and interconnected by special hinges. Using a lifting mechanism located on the ceiling, the gate is lifted along guide profiles and positioned horizontally along the ceiling. Sections are mainly made of sandwich panels.

Pros of the model:

  • versatility in terms of opening sizes,
  • saving space when opening,
  • good resistance to deformation and mechanical loads,
  • full automation,
  • presentable appearance,
  • high heat and sound insulation qualities,
  • long-term operation.
  • high price,
  • constant maintenance is required: lubrication of hinges and guides, checking electrical and automation systems,
  • low burglary resistance.

Up-and-over sectional doors

Rolled

These garage doors got their name from the way they open. Purely structurally, these are several strips (lamellas) assembled into one sheet, which is rolled into a roll. Therefore, in addition to the door leaf, the gate includes two guides that hold the structure in the opening, a shaft on which the slats are wound, and an electric drive.

Advantages:

  • compactness,
  • acceptable price,
  • ease of installation,
  • long term service,
  • presentable appearance,
  • possibility of automation.
  • almost zero burglary resistance,
  • it is not possible to carry out insulation, because there are always gaps between the lamellas,
  • do not work well at low temperatures.

Rolling gates

Recoil

In this design, there is one leaf, which is supported on a guide profile located on top and rests against the rail from below. The device is opened by rolling it to the side along the wall.

The advantages include:

  • functionality does not depend on snowdrifts,
  • does not take up space when opened,
  • high burglary resistance,
  • possibility of automation.
  • rapid wear of the rollers,
  • The width of the wall along which the gate is moved must be greater than the width of the leaf.

Sliding gates

Do-it-yourself swing garage door manufacturing technology

So, swing gates for a garage are two doors (usually equal in width), which are hung on a U-shaped frame using hinges. Therefore, when the task is set to produce gates of this type, several issues are resolved:

  • manufacturing of sashes,
  • making a box (frame),
  • installation of the latter,
  • installation of sashes on the frame.

Before you start making swing gates, you need to decide on their dimensions.

Sizes of garage swing doors

There are no strict size requirements. The main thing is that the car can freely enter the garage without hitting the gate. And this allows you to make any opening, the width and height of which is 30 cm larger than the dimensions of the car on each side. But this is inconvenient, especially for novice drivers.

  • height for cars – 2.0-2.2 m, for minibuses – 2.5 m;
  • optimal width is 2.5-3 m, maximum – 5 m.

Standard sizes of swing gates

Preparing to make gates

Required tools:

  • welding machine and electrodes;
  • grinder with cutting and grinding disc;
  • tape measure, ruler and marker (chalk);
  • level and corner.

Required materials. The outer side of the gate is a sheet steel sheet with a thickness of 3-4 mm or corrugated sheeting with a thickness of at least 1.2 mm. If the first material is used in the design, then the entire connection process is carried out by electric welding. If the latter, then the corrugated sheeting can be fastened to the frame using metal screws.

As a material for assembling the frame, you can use either a 63x63 mm corner or a 40x40 mm profiled pipe with a thickness of 2-3 mm. The second option is cheaper and easier to use.

Drawing of swing gates for a garage made from a profile pipe

And the last element is the hinges, which are made from a steel bar with a minimum diameter of 25 mm. There must be at least four hinges, two for each sash.

Now, as for the U-shaped box. It consists of two racks and a crossbar (crossbar). The first ones can be made from a 63x63 corner or a round pipe with a diameter of 80-100 mm, or a profiled pipe with a cross-section of at least 80x60 mm. The crossbar is made of the same materials. If you plan to build a two-story garage, then it is better to use channel No. 12 as a crossbar.

Gate assembly drawing

Manufacturing of frames for sashes

The first stage is cutting eight pieces of material prepared for assembling the frames. Four of them should be equal to the height of the gate minus 1-2 cm, four to the width of the leaves, that is, half the width of the gate structure minus 2-3 cm. For example, if the total width of the gate is 3 m, then it is necessary to cut four elements 1 at a time. 48 m.

Aligning the frame on blocks in a horizontal plane

An important point is that the frames must be assembled on a horizontal plane. It is not necessary that it be a flat area; any type of stand will do, the upper ends of which are aligned in the same horizontal plane. You can use bricks or blocks for this. They are installed in the corners of a rectangle, the length of which is equal to the height of the leaf, the width is equal to the width of the gate section. Appropriately cut sections are laid on them, and then a level is checked to see if they lie horizontally. Deviations are leveled out by placing blocks of thin planks, stones or sheet metal under them.

The laid sections are fixed to each other by spot welding with precise alignment of adjacent elements to each other at 90°. A construction corner is used for this. This is an important point that determines the exact dimensions of the future gate structure, which will fit exactly into the frame without distortions or large gaps.

Scheme of stiffeners

Two frames have been formed, now it is necessary to increase the rigidity of the structure by installing additional elements: horizontal or vertical. If the gate is large, then both are used. Sometimes they are supplemented with oblique elements. The material used is a corner or a smaller profile pipe. For example, if the frames were assembled from a 40x40 mm pipe, then 40x20 mm can be used for reinforcement. Additional elements are evenly distributed relative to each other.

After assembling the frames, it is necessary to weld the joints on both sides and sand them to remove scale and metal stains.

The rigidity of the frame structure is determined by additional elements installed vertically and horizontally

Connection of frame and steel sheet

A rectangular section must be cut from a sheet of iron for each sash. There are certain requirements for their sizes:

  • the length of the segments should be 3-4 cm greater than the height of the gate opening;
  • One of the rectangles should be 2 cm smaller in width than the width of the frame, and the second one should be larger by the same size.

For example, if the width of the doors is 1.5 m, the height is 2.5 m, then one sheet will be 1.52x2.54 mm in size, the other 1.48x2.54 mm.

Now, in height, two sheets are placed on the frames so that their edges protrude beyond the frame structure by 2 cm on each side. The protrusions of the sheets will close the gap between the sashes and the frame. As for the width, on the hinge side the sheets are laid flush with the profile pipe. In one sash, the sheet will protrude from the opposite side by 2 cm, in the other, on the contrary, its edge will not reach the edge of the frame. This is done so that when the gate is closed, the protruding sheet closes the gap between the leaves.

Attention! The sheets are welded to the frame pointwise from the edge to the center. After that, welding is carried out in small sections within 3-4 cm in increments of 10-15 cm.

The sheet is fastened to the frame using short seams

Assembling the swing gate frame

The dimensions of the box are determined by the dimensions of the opening. In this case, half a meter is added to the length of the support posts, with which the structure will be recessed into the prepared pits, followed by concreting.

The box is assembled using the same technology as the sash frames, with installation on bricks or blocks. The dimensions of the box along the internal contour are slightly larger in width than the total width of the sashes. The difference is 2-3 cm. In height, the difference can be significant - up to 5-6 cm. Although optimal is 3-4 cm.

Box for swing gates

Installation of hinges

To do this, the sashes are laid on a U-shaped frame with an exact location in the plane, forming gaps between all elements. The assembled hinges are placed at their required location and welded: their lower parts to the frame posts, their upper parts to the frame of the sashes.

To strengthen the fasteners, you can additionally weld metal strips or reinforcement to the hinges.

Correct and high-quality loop welding

Installation of swing gates

Ideally, the gate frame should be installed during the construction of the garage, when half of the walls are already raised from bricks or blocks. But regardless of this, installation is carried out using the same technology.

  1. Holes are dug for the racks with a depth of 0.5 m.
  2. One or two crossbars made of reinforcement or a corner 10-20 cm long are welded to the lower edges of the racks, the purpose of which is to serve as holding elements in the concrete.

Preparing the stand before concreting the pit

  1. At the bottom of the supports, metal plates are welded in the form of a nickel to rest on the ground.
  2. The half-meter ends of the racks are treated with a waterproofing compound, for example, hot bitumen or covered with roofing felt.
  3. The box is installed in the pits with precise alignment in the opening, for which a building level is used.
  4. The racks are welded to the embedded parts, which are installed during the wall laying process. Reinforcement with a diameter of 12-16 mm and a length of 50 cm is often used as mortgages. The laying step is every 6-8 rows.
  5. Concrete is mixed at the rate of cement-sand-crushed stone in the ratio 1:2:2, if the cement grade is M400.
  6. Pouring concrete into pits with a tamper. This is done not only in order to compact the concrete solution, but also in order to squeeze out the air that got there during the mixing process. Air pores reduce the strength of concrete.
  7. You can hang the sashes on the frame after the concrete has set and dried.

How to make a gate with a wicket?

The process of assembling swing gates with a door is exactly the same. Simply, four elements are inserted into one of the leaves to form an opening for the door. Vertical ones are installed at full height, horizontal ones between them in the form of crossbars. The doorway structure is assembled at the stage of manufacturing the frame for the sash.

Door location in gates with standard dimensions

The door itself is manufactured in exactly the same way as the gate sections, with the assembly of the frame and installation of the metal sheet. The complexity of the manufacturing process of the leaf itself, in which the door is installed, lies in the fact that the doorway remains uncovered by a sheet of metal, and the remaining planes must be closed with it. All of them will not be equal to each other, so each section must be accurately measured, transferred the dimensions to the sheet and cut them out. After which, each cut piece is transferred to the frame with spot welding around the perimeter. In this case, the laid sections of sheets must be joined on additional profiles that create rigidity of the frame structure.

Drawing of a swing garage door with a wicket

The size of the gate is selected taking into account the convenient passage through it, as well as the dimensions of the gate leaf. For example, if the leaf width is 1.5 m, then the width of the gate should not exceed 1 m. As for the height, the height of the gate and the location of the door itself relative to the lower elements of the gate frame are also taken into account. At the same time, the maximum height of the location is 40 cm. The height of the door itself is within 1.8-2.1 m.

Welded wicket for garage doors

Options for ready-made swing gates













Video - how to make a garage door with your own hands

Conclusion

Despite the apparent simplicity of the assembly process, it should be noted that the manufacture of swing garage doors requires attention from the manufacturer and the ability to accurately carry out all measurements and calculations. In this case, you should not let go of the measuring instruments. A slight deviation in shape or size may result in the doors simply not fitting into the frame. You will have to make adjustments in place, which will affect the evenness of the elements.

The arrangement of any territory requires the presence of a boundary fence. A mandatory attribute of such a design is a gate to ensure unimpeded entry into the facility. Such systems are used both in industrial enterprises and in private areas. Products of this type can vary in complexity and design. Preliminary preparation will allow you to choose the best product option, taking into account all the nuances.

Peculiarities

Gates are universal enclosing structures that are installed at the entrance to a specific facility or private territory. Today there are many varieties of such structures, which allows you to select them depending on their purpose.

Regardless of what type of gate is being considered, the product consists of several basic elements:

  • Canvas. This part is the main part of the entire system. Depending on the design, there may be several canvases. Some models may have a complex geometric shape, given to create a unique design.
  • Supports. These products take the main load created by the sash or leaf. The shape and technical features depend on the method of fastening the gate.

The gates have several distinctive features:

  • Simplicity. The manufacture of some modifications does not require knowledge and experience in working with different materials.
  • Durability. High-quality products can last up to 15-20 years with proper care.
  • Ease of control. Today, all types of gates are supplemented with special hinges, rollers and other systems that simplify opening the doors.
  • Variety of designs. Products are manufactured using various materials and approaches. This allows you to obtain not only durable, but also beautiful products.

Kinds

Gates are an integral element of many enterprises and private estates. These designs must solve several universal problems. Today you can build them yourself, using special drawings or sketches. Depending on the technical parameters, gate systems can be divided into several types.

Recoil

The leaf of such a gate moves parallel to the fence or one of the walls. The main components of the products are the canvas, cantilever beam, rollers and supports. The fastening scheme of these attributes depends only on the selected type of sash and its location.

The frame is shifted by means of a cantilever beam and rollers.

The most popular type is cantilever gates, but there are also suspended and rail systems. The latter, for example, are very similar to console ones, but movement is carried out on a special rail. There are also so-called folding gates. In them, the sash seems to enter into itself. This is achieved by using metal profiles of various thicknesses and its fastening. Sliding gates are universal, as they can be installed both at the dacha and at an industrial facility.

Among the disadvantages are the need for free space on one side, as well as the high cost of the product.

Swing

This type of gate consists of one or two leaves that open in an arc. The use of swing systems today is very diverse. They are used both in private households and in large agricultural enterprises where additional fencing for areas is needed. The construction of these gates is one of the simplest, which has led to their widespread use. To install them, you will need metal and welding, with which the frame of the canvas is welded, and then the gate is installed in the right place. Today swing gates are used as entrance gates.

Rolled

A feature of such designs is that the fabric is wound on a special shaft when moving upward. This was made possible by dividing the canvas into small sections that are interconnected. Theoretically, roller gates can be installed outdoors as fencing systems, but this process is quite labor-intensive, so they are installed in garages or warehouses, where the frame can be attached to the base of the building. Among the disadvantages of these structures is their low strength.

There are varieties in which the canvas is not rolled into a roll, but folded into an accordion, but they are used quite rarely, since they are not so practical.

Sectional

Gates of this type consist of a large leaf of several sections, which moves along special guides. Similar systems are used in the construction of large warehouses, garages and other industrial facilities. To increase thermal insulation, insulation is inserted inside the canvas. The gate lifts up, so no additional space is required near the base. Some modifications can be supplemented with windows and gates.

Among the disadvantages are the high cost and limited use (installation is carried out only on solid foundations).

Tilt&Turn

Materials

Theoretically, gates can be made from almost any material. Today, several types are used for such purposes:

  • Metal sheets. Often, for such purposes, a profiled sheet is used, which is selected according to thickness and color. The canvas itself is formed from it. Please note that iron sheets not only cover the frame, but also form the top layer of the roll mechanisms. To protect the metal, the surface is coated with PVC solutions.
  • Pipes. Both round and profile products are used. Homemade gates are often made from a profile: you just need to weld the blanks correctly.
  • Metal corners. They are necessary to create or strengthen the frame. This material is not used for heavy gates.
  • Wood. This material is the most affordable and widespread, but wooden gates are becoming increasingly rare today, as they are quite demanding on climatic conditions.
  • Metal rods. Decorative elements are made from them. They are the basis of forged gates, which are distinguished by their originality and beauty.

How to make it yourself

Gates can differ radically from each other in design and technical parameters. The construction of some modifications is technically impossible at home. These include hanging or roll varieties.

Before you start building a gate in a private house, you should take into account several recommendations and proceed in stages.

  • Decide on the type of structure you plan to build. Today, many people prefer sliding systems, but they require free space along the fence. This must be taken into account when planning. At this stage, it is advisable to take all measurements in order to have data from which the main parameters of the canvas will be calculated.
  • Calculate all the parameters of the canvas and the wicket (if there is one). To do this, it is better to make a small drawing on which all the main dimensions of the future sash should be plotted. Particular attention should be paid to cantilever and fan systems: for them, accuracy is most important.
  • Stock up on tools. The construction of some types of gates requires not only a hammer and welding, but also other auxiliary tools: circular saws, grinders and many others.
  • Before starting work, buy building materials in the required amount: plastic pipes, corrugated pipes, rollers, loops and the like. The required set is determined by what kind of gate you are going to build.

Installation of supports

Technically, supports can be called system elements that hold the canvas in a certain position. These structures take the main load, so they are built from durable materials. The simplest option is to install fence posts for swing systems.

It consists of several sequential steps:

  • Initially, they determine the location. Often, for double-leaf gates, the support posts are placed at a distance equal to twice the width of one leaf plus a small margin. It is also important to consider the direction of movement of the web. If it opens into the yard, then you need to leave room for plowing.
  • Concreting pillars. Concrete structures, wooden beams or metal channels of varying thickness are used as supports. They are selected depending on the weight of the gate. When concreting, it is important to deepen the pillars by no less than 50 cm. It is advisable to position them strictly vertically, since any displacement can affect the ability to close the doors.
  • When the concrete is poured and the pillars are aligned, you need to install a brace so that the pillars do not change position while the solution hardens.

Installing a support system for sliding panel gates is a more complex process.

It can be described in several points:

  • Digging a ditch for the lower support beam. It will take the main load from the departure track. The ditch is located along the opening, and its length often does not exceed half its width. The depth of the pit reaches 1-1.5 m.
  • Construction of the beam. This structure consists of a steel channel and metal supports that are welded to it. As a result, the entire structure resembles the letter “P”. The channel is installed with the legs down, its flat side should be flush with the ground.
  • Concreting. When everything is ready, the ditch with the support beam is poured with concrete. It is important to control that the elements do not move in space. The beam must be in a horizontal plane. If this condition is not observed, then the movement of the exit track on the rollers will be complicated.
  • When the support beam has frozen, they begin to form the side support pillars. They are needed to optimize the operation of the folding structure. Closers, support rollers, motion sensors and other auxiliary attributes are mounted on them. Many experts recommend making decorative fence posts first, and then attaching the remaining parts to them.

As for armored gates or structures made of sandwich panels, they are not installed on the street. These systems are attached directly to the building frame, which acts as supports.

Some modifications are equipped with a metal frame that is easy to attach at the factory.

Installation

Before you begin installing the gates, they should be assembled. Swing and sliding systems are considered the easiest to assemble. The technology of construction and installation of swing-type structures should be considered.

It can be divided into several stages:

  • Frame installation. The door can be made of either wood or metal. The latter option is preferable, since the metal is stronger and more durable. Initially, profile pipes are cut into blanks, which, when folded, should form a rectangle. The corners of the elements are connected to each other by welding. To strengthen the product, metal corners are welded at the joints, adding rigidity.
  • Sheathing. When the frame is ready, it is sheathed with profiled sheets, wood or chain-link mesh. If you want to get a beautiful and unusual design, then you can use forging elements as decoration. They require experience working with metal, because it needs to be bent into a certain shape. If you do not have experience, you can purchase ready-made options.
  • Fastening. Hinged hinges are welded to the finished canvases and support posts. It is advisable to do this before laying the stone, so that both halves of the loops can be aligned perfectly evenly. If the hinges are welded correctly, then you can simply “put” the sash on the support pin. At the very end, locks and a gate are installed.

Installing sliding gates is much more difficult. It involves performing the following operations:

  • Construction of a metal frame. It is made from durable, thick profile pipe. The length of the canvas is often about 50% greater than the width of the opening. This is necessary to create a kind of counterbalance. If the width of the canvas is small, you don’t need to make a counterweight. The technology also involves cutting metal into blanks and then welding them at the corners, which need to be given special attention. Vertical supports should be welded along the entire length of the frame, to which the sheathing will then be attached.
  • Installation of the support beam. Outwardly, it resembles a profile pipe with a longitudinal section. The length of the beam is equal to the width of the lower end of the gate. It is attached to it using spot welding.
  • Sheathing. Sheets of profiled steel are placed on top of the frame. They are attached using special self-tapping screws that are not afraid of moisture and do not damage the metal.

  • Installation of rollers and top guide. Support rollers are attached to a metal platform. It is advisable to fix it by welding on a channel, which acts as a base. The rollers are securely screwed with ordinary bolts. The top guide is a small bar that moves along the rolls. The rolls, in turn, are attached to the support pillars. They do not allow the canvas to move to the sides when moving. The procedure is completed by installing removable polypropylene plugs, which are attached to the ends of the pipes, preventing moisture or dirt from entering them.
  • Gate installation. When all systems are secured, the canvas should be put on the rollers and tested. It is advisable to perform all operations with at least two people, since the gates are quite bulky and heavy.

For more information on how to install sliding gates with your own hands, see the following video.

Automation

The frame of many gates is made of metal, which increases its weight. Opening such systems manually is not always comfortable. This problem is solved with the help of automatic drives. It is impossible to make them yourself, since this requires special equipment. They install automation on roller shutters, sliding and swing gates. This process can be broken down into several sequential steps:

  • drive mount. It is a motor with gears that drive the entire system. They are located inside a special housing, which allows them to be protected from external factors. At this stage, the device is adjusted relative to the blade so that the rail moves without load.
  • Rail fastening. It is fixed on the canvas so that it coincides with the internal gear. It is important to take the product in length with a small margin. When fastening the gate must be completely closed.
  • Setup. In order for the motor to move the sliding gate, the teeth on the gear and rack must match. They are combined using special methods, which you can ask experienced craftsmen about.
  • Connection. The motor is connected to the electrical network of the house, and sensors are used to open the gate using a phone or a regular button.