Ordering a new gate is an exciting upgrade for your property. It improves security, boosts kerb appeal, and creates a clear boundary between the public world and your private sanctuary. But if you have never hired a professional fencing company before, you might be wondering exactly what happens between clicking "Get a Quote" and having a working gate.
At Joe's Fencing, we believe in clear communication. We know that having tradespeople at your home can be stressful, so we have refined our installation process to be as smooth, clean, and efficient as possible. Whether you are replacing a rotten side gate in Southville or installing grand entrance gates in Stoke Bishop, here is a step-by-step guide to what you can expect when you work with us.
Step 1: The Site Survey & Consultation
Great gates start with accurate measurements. We never work off "guestimates." When you contact us, we arrange a convenient time to visit your property.
During this visit, we don't just measure the width of the gap. We assess:
- The Ground Level: Is the ground sloped? (A common issue in hilly Bristol!). If so, the gate may need to be hung higher or open outwards to avoid dragging.
- Existing Posts: Can we use the existing wall plates or posts, or are they rotted? In 90% of cases, we recommend replacing old timber posts to ensure the new gate has a solid anchor.
- Obstructions: We check for drain pipes, gas meters, or downspouts that might interfere with the swing of the gate.
This is also your chance to browse our portfolio. We can discuss styles—from privacy-focused tongue and groove to decorative ironwork—and help you choose the right furniture (latches and locks).
Step 2: Fabrication and Preparation
Once you approve the quote, the work begins—but not at your house just yet. Unlike "off-the-shelf" gates from a DIY store, many of our installations require bespoke sizing. Standard gates are 900mm wide, but most Bristol Victorian terrace side paths are closer to 850mm or 1000mm.
We prepare the timber or fabricate the metalwork off-site. This minimizes the time we spend making noise at your property. We also ensure all timber is pressure-treated and any metalwork is galvanized and powder-coated before it arrives, ensuring every inch is protected against the weather.
Step 3: Removal and Groundworks
On installation day, our team arrives at the agreed time. The first job is "out with the old."
We carefully remove the old gate and posts. If the old posts were concreted in, we may need to break out the old concrete foundation. This can be the noisiest part of the job, especially if we hit the infamous Bristol bedrock or old Victorian footings, but we use professional breakers to make quick work of it.
Note: We adhere to a "leave no trace" policy. We load all old timber, rubble, and green waste onto our vehicles for responsible disposal, leaving your garden tidy.
Step 4: Installing the Posts
This is the most critical stage. A gate is only as good as the post it hangs on. If the post isn't plumb (perfectly vertical), the gate will swing open on its own or refuse to latch.
- Timber Posts: We dig a hole usually 600mm to 900mm deep. We place the post, check the levels with a spirit level, and fill the hole with rapid-setting Postcrete. We slope the top of the concrete away from the wood to shed rainwater.
- Wall Plates: If we are hanging a gate off a brick wall, we use heavy-duty masonry fixings (chemical anchors or thunderbolts) to attach a timber wall plate. We never hang hinges directly into brickwork, as the repeated movement eventually pulls the bricks loose.
Step 5: Hanging the Gate
Once the posts are solid (usually after allowing the concrete to cure firmly), we hang the gate.
We space the hinges to distribute the weight evenly. For larger driveway gates, we use adjustable hinges. These are a lifesaver in the UK climate—as timber naturally expands and contracts with the seasons, these hinges allow us (or you) to tweak the gate's alignment with a simple spanner turn, ensuring it never sticks.
Step 6: Fitting the Furniture
Now comes the security. We install your chosen ironmongery:
- Latches: Ring latches or thumb latches for easy access.
- Bolts: Drop bolts (cane bolts) for securing double gates into the ground.
- Locks: We can install long-throw key locks that allow access from both sides, or digital keypads for automated systems.
We test the closing mechanism repeatedly to ensure it engages smoothly without rattling.
Step 7: Final Walkthrough and Handover
We don't leave until you are happy. We will walk you through the installation, showing you how to operate any locks or automation features.
We also provide advice on maintenance—such as when to oil the hinges or how often to re-treat the timber—to ensure your investment lasts for decades. Finally, we sweep the area, wash down any dust, and leave you to enjoy your new entrance.
Ready to Get Started?
A professional installation makes the difference between a gate that sags after six months and one that closes with a satisfying "clunk" for years to come.
If you're ready to upgrade your home's security and style, we are ready to help.
Featured Image Image [A photo of two installers in work gear adjusting the hinges on a new, high-quality wooden side gate, with tools neatly arranged nearby] Image Alt Text [Professional gate installers adjusting hinges in Bristol] Tags Select Tags Gate Installation Home Improvement Bristol Services Garden Security SEO Settings Meta Title Gate Installation Process: What to Expect | Joe's Bristol Meta Description New gate installation explained. From site survey to final fitting, we walk you through our professional process for Bristol homes.