[ 1 ] Overview [ 2 ] Plan [ 3 ] Layout [ 4 ] Set Posts [ 5 ] Install Fittings [ 6 ] Hang Gate [ 7 ] Install Latch [ 8 ] Install Operator

Tools for Layout:

Measuring Wheel

Measuring Tape - Large

Measuring Tape - Small

Sledge Hammer

Marking Paint

Small Auger

Large Auger

    Cantilever gates typically require three posts which make them unique; two are used to mount the rollers and gate and a third is required as a latch post. The two roller posts will be the same size and typically larger than the latch post. Important: although the latch post is smaller in diameter, you will set it in concrete the same distance from your guide string as the roller posts. The cantilever latch makes up for the offset once the gate is installed. Cantilever gates only have chain link stretched on the 'opening' portion of the gate. The portion of the gate which is stretched with chain link is typically 6" more than the 'opening' to provide security where the rollers will offset the gate. The counterbalance is not stretched with chain link as it is typically behind the rest of the fence. Set your gate posts according to the 'opening' size of the gate you've ordered. In example, a 20' wide 'opening' size gate opening should have exactly 20' from inside to inside of the latch post and first roller post Fig A-1. If you must error, error on the small side by setting posts too close together. Since the gate overlaps the opening, posts set to close together will not make much difference.

Fig A-1

Fig A-2

Cantilever gates are large and heavy as are their posts. Consult local building practices and codes for proper depth and diameter of holes and concrete footings. In general, footers should be three times the diameters of posts installed. The depth for fence post footers is often recommended to be 1/3 it's length and below frost. You can further anchor posts and concrete footers by digging the hole diameter larger at the bottom of the hole compared to the top. This will result in a 'bell-shaped' hole in contrast to a 'carrot-shaped' hole.

For locating placement of the last roller post, you'll need to measure the stretched portion of your gate and counterbalance to confirm proper fit Fig. A-3. In general, the stretched portion of the cantilever gate is 6" more than the opening to assure it overlaps any gaps caused by the offset of the rollers. Hardware varies therefore it is always best to take measurements once you receive your gate to plan installation.

Fig A-3

To set gate posts, dig holes 12-30" in diameter and 42-48" deep. The depth and diameter of the concrete footers vary depending on your location. The hole size above works well in areas with freezing ground. Holes should be "bell-shaped" not "carrot-shaped" Fig. B. Next, fill hole(s) with concrete and "stick" the post into the wet concrete and plumb post with a level. Make sure your concrete consistency is not too wet or soupy.  Concrete should be of a plastic-like consistency, dry enough so the post will not sink to the bottom of the hole.  The gate post should NOT extend to the bottom of the hole; there should concrete under the post as well as all around it.   You will want to leave the concrete level approx. 2-4" below grade or the ground level especially in areas which freeze, back fill with dirt.  Replumb post.    When the ground freezes it can cause the concrete footer to "heave" if you fill the concrete to the top of the hole.  Leave the post(s) alone for approx. 24 hours or a sufficient amount of time for the concrete to harden.  

Fig. B

Post Hole Diggers - Large

Post Hole Diggers - Small

Shovels

Level

Spud Bar