DIY guideGate
Make a gate close and latch on its own
Test that it swings shut and latches from any opening, then adjust the hinge spring or the latch until it does. Pool gates first.
- 15 to 30 min
- 6 steps
- Every step animated
6 steps
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Open the gate all the way and let go. It should swing shut and latch by itself.
Open it a hand's width and let go. It should still close and latch.
If it stops short, turn the self-closing hinge's tension screw a little tighter, the way its maker says.
If it closes but bounces off, loosen the latch, move it to meet the gate's catch, and tighten it again.
Try it from wide open and from a little open, a few times each.
A pool gate that won't close and latch on its own: keep the pool off limits and ask Handyman for a fence pro.
What you need
- A hex key or a screwdriver for the hinge
- A screwdriver
Call a pro if
- The gate sags or drags on the ground
- A post is loose or leaning
- A pool gate still won't latch on its own
Handyman says: Keep the pool shut. I'll find a pro.
Free for every home. Handyman asks a few questions, then books a pro it trusts.
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Rather have
a pro do it?