04/17/2026
Cheap gates aren’t good, and good gates aren’t cheap.
Before Zag Fence came into existence, almost everywhere I did a construction project, it seemed like there was always a problem with the gate. Unfortunately, due to how most of them are built and installed, there usually isn’t a good way to “fix it” other than to tear it all out and start over. Sometimes it’s a cheap & fast kit, sometimes it’s a rusted steel frame with a broken weld, sometimes the posts are crooked or settled from improper installation, sometimes the hardware was a bad choice and isn’t adjustable, and the list goes on.
Here at Zag Fence, you’re going to get the best combination of gate hardware and building techniques for a better gate experience, and a better looking gate.
This design uses a combination of Consolidated Gate Foam blocks in a 4”x4” vinyl gate post, 5” steel liner in main posts, rail locks, heavy duty adjustable hinges with 3.5” screws, a double-latch with custom grab bar on one side, double drop canes, steel reinforcement in top and bottom rails, and support wires with turnbuckles for making minor adjustments. Reinforcement on reinforcement, with a side of reinforcement. Compliments to the Chef.
Since it’s technically - , I’m taking the L this week and here’s why:
The support wire came slightly loose after a few years so I went back to adjust this gate for free. It was only about 3mm out of alignment, but due to the tight fit, there was a part of the latch that was just barely rubbing the other gate when opening. Luckily it’s back to 100% because it was built with the future in mind.
I do not recommended installing with as extremely tight of margins as you see here. Most gates are installed with 1.5” margins (gaps between post and gate), but in an effort to give the maximum amount of privacy along a back alley in this north Spokane neighborhood, I installed these gates with 0.75” margins - a.k.a. everything has to be PERFECT. Margins this tight require a level of detail that most installers don’t have - and I know because I’ve had to fix their gates.
*If you are a fence contractor and want to copy this design, please do because I don’t want to get a repair call for fixing your gate that either doesn’t open, or doesn’t shut. We do craftsman quality around here, even if it’s a plastic fence 😉
2nd drop cane was added after installation. New design fixes the asymmetry.
Contact Zag Fence for a free estimate in Spokane and eastern Washington. Licensed and insured, WA Lic # ZAGFEF*782Q1
FB, text, or email is usually the easiest way to reach out during the busy season. [email protected] , and thanks for coming to my TEDtalk
