There’s nothing complex about building a gate made of Trex
Trex, a composite of plastic and wood, is a popular choice for decks because it’s totally weatherproof and perfect for outdoor features. In addition to decks, it’s also commonly used in fencing and is a fan favorite for privacy fences because of the solitude it provides. Whether you already have a Trex fence around your deck or are thinking about installing one, you’ll need a deck gate to go with it. The following steps will show you exactly how to build a Trex gate and attach it to your existing or future fencing from there.
Like many exterior or public-facing projects, constructing a gate may require following certain building codes. Check with your local town hall to find out if there are any regulations you’ll need to consider during the process—like the height of your gate, for example.
Another common guideline is that deck gates must open onto the deck itself rather than the stairs or toward the street. Finally, deck gates made from other materials, like wood, need strap hinges for proper support, but these aren’t necessary for a Trex gate because of their unique composition.
First things first: Measure the width and height of your deck fence opening to find out what dimensions your gate should be.
Start by measuring the width. Extend a tape measure from one post to the opposite post and jot down measurements in centimeters for easy calculations. Subtract 4.8 centimeters from the current width to factor in enough space for a gap, allowing the gate to open and close comfortably.
Next, measure the opening posts from the top down on both sides in case of any height variations. As long as the selected gate is a minimum of 36 inches and not taller than your existing fence, it’s good to go.
Lay the gate down on a flat, padded surface. Be sure to differentiate between the top and bottom panels so that you don’t accidentally install your gate upside down.
Using a washable marker or pencil, mark the gate with the appropriate width measurements. If the measurements fall on or in between a baluster, you will need to cut the gate with a reciprocating saw to remove excess.
Before doing that, lay the posts on the marked measurements to ensure they are properly positioned. The posts shouldn’t line up with the balusters, and there should be the same amount of space between balusters from both posts.
Lay the gate down on a sturdy, cushioned surface—one that you’re not worried about damaging. Working from top to bottom and wearing goggles and gloves, use a reciprocating saw with a metal blade to remove excess width from the gate on both sides. Be sure to follow the marked measurements to get the best results.
After cutting the gate, install the posts on both sides. You’ll see cutouts on both the top and bottom of each post. Make sure they are properly aligned to the top and bottom of your fence, and then simply slide them into place.
Use the provided self-tapping screws and a drill to secure the posts to the gate. The top and bottom of both posts will require four screws each.
Place the short side of the hinges onto the top and bottom of the gate post that will attach to your fencing. Use a drill to attach the hinge to the post with provided metal screws. While you’re at it, attach the part of the gate latch that affixes to the gate with a drill and metal screws.
If you desire a bit of gapping between your deck and gate, use wood blocks 1 to 4 inches in height to hold the gate in place during installation. Place the blocks on the deck below where the gate will go. Then, slide the gate into the opening. Use a level to find out if it is evenly placed.
Place the large side of the hinge onto the fence posts and drill into place with the remaining metal screws. Once everything is secured and you’ve removed the blocks, open and close the gate to ensure it works properly. If it doesn’t, you may need a larger gap between posts. In that case, disassemble the gate and use a reciprocating saw to remove more excess.
Return the wood blocks back underneath the gate for support during this next step. Then, position the post caps on top of each post and secure them with a rubber mallet. You’ll know you’ve installed it correctly when you try to remove it by hand and it doesn’t budge.
Finally, install the remaining gate latch piece to the fence post with a drill and the last of your metal screws. Although a gate latch comes with the Trex gate hardware pack, you can use another gate latch type with more security if you prefer.
Although a project like this is costly, whether you choose to do it yourself or not, you’ll still save a bit by going the DIY route. The price for composite deck gate installation from a pro ranges from $200 and $400 for labor fees alone, so you could save that much by installing it on your own. However, if you’re not comfortable using a reciprocating saw or would simply rather not break a sweat, don’t hesitate to hire a fence company near you to take the work off your plate.
A Trex gate costs $750 plus another $200 for the hardware pack necessary for installation. By contrast, Trex fencing ranges in price from $22 to $38 per linear foot, so you may pay a lot or a little depending on just how much space you need to enclose in your yard.
Because this composite fencing and deck material is made from both wood and plastic, it’s more durable than either alone. It’s so popular for outdoor purposes because it really does stand the test of time. Heavy rain and high heat won’t greatly change its structural integrity; it can last up to 25 years in total with proper care.
Caring for a Trex fence is easy because you won’t need any special materials, and you’ll only need to clean it a few times a year. In general, you can use a bit of dish soap, warm water, and a bristle brush to remove almost all kinds of blemishes. Plan on doing this project as the seasons change—once before summer and once after before packing up for the winter.
