I am a first time fence builder, which will be 6ft cedar. I need a gate that is 7 to 8 ft wide. I live in Oregon and the frost line is only a foot deep. I was planning on a 7ft gate with a 6×6 post. Would that hold the gate? How deep should I sink it?
I also thought of 2 4ft gates on 4×4 posts but have the same questions.
The gate won't be opened a lot, just provide access to a barely used trailer and a dog run. I am concerned with the weight and that it might sag.
Best Answer
Rule of thumb is that 1/3 of the post should be in the ground. A 6' fence should be sunk into the ground 3', so you'd need 9' posts.
As Shirlock states, even that won't likely support an 8' wide gate. Two 4' gates would definitely be a better option.
Perhaps the easiest solution, however, is to not even make a gate. Instead, build your fence and then make this an 8' panel that is attached with temporary fasteners...such as bolts. On the rare occasions that you need access, unbolt the fence panel and remove it completely--thereby negating the need for the two posts to cary the load of a cantilevered gate.
On the plus side, it's less gate hardware you need to buy and deal with.