How to add deck gate with offset 4×4’s

deckdeckinggates

I'm looking to add a gate at the top of deck stairs, where the gate swings inward and the hinges are towards the yard side of deck. There are two issues.

  1. The 4×4 posts are offset

    • What would be the best way to make the gate line up on both sides without a lot of added work?
    • I was thinking adding a 4×4 to the inner post to bring it out more, and just cut a new topper?
    • I'm not sure of water will collect under the post and rot it out. 

  2. The hand rail goes up and anchors to the outward side 4×4 post.

    • What should I do with this?
    • Should I cut the hand rail lower? If so, how would I anchor it.
    • Given the current set up, is it better to leave the hand rail, and design the gate to fit around it?

Pic

Best Answer

It looks to me like the offset is minor. I would hinge a gate underneath the existing grippable rail, mounting the hinges toward the stairs, and swing it to the post in the foreground. A standard gate latch should mount up and work just fine. If necessary, block out the latch as needed. 

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            |____|***  <-- latch location
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