Tools: Hammer; hammer drill; masonry drill bits; spirit level.

Materials: Eyebolt hinges; gate latch; gate.

Before you start Think carefully about the size of the gate and the leverage it will exert on the pier. Check the piers to make sure that they are in good order before hanging your gate and make any necessary repairs to the masonry. Special hinges are needed for hanging a gate on masonry.

STEP 1

Place the gate between the two piers. When viewed from above the gate should bisect the centre line of each pier. Sit the gate on temporary packing so that it is about 50 to 60mm above ground level.

STEP 2

Place wedges on either side of the gate so that the gate is held firmly. Use the spirit level to make sure that the top rail is level.

STEP 3

Measure down 175mm from the top rail and 250mm up from the bottom of the gate on the hanging side and put a pencil mark at these points. Transfer these marks to the masonry piers then remove the gate.

STEP 4

Drill a pilot hole, then a larger hole, for the hinge: the size is dependent on the hinges that you are using. Hammer in the plug and screw in the hinge.

STEP 5

Attach the other half of the hinge to the gate, check to make sure that it swings properly and that the gap is even. If it is not, screw the hinges in or out of the piers a little to adjust their position.

STEP 6

Finally attach the latch to the other side of the gate and the striker to the pier.

Alternatively If you are building a pier to take a gate, set the gate hangers into the masonry as you work so they provide a stronger point of attachment.