Installing a New Fence

A sliding gate is a great choice for any residential home, or for a commercial property where you want to control incoming and outgoing traffic. This gate can be made with metal bars, or with a solid panel of wood, which offers even more privacy on the property, and which keeps the gate from looking overly industrial and imposing.

While sliding gates are good for adding a layer of security, they can eventually break down and need repair. Note a few common problems with sliding gates so you know what might be wrong and if you can even make this repair on your own.

Gate shakes when it operates

Shaking is usually caused by faulty guide rollers. These rollers are installed on the post called the gate tower, which is the post that the gate slides toward when it opens. Guide rollers include a bracket attached to the post, with rollers that sit on either side of the gate; these rollers keep the gate steady as it opens and closes. If the bracket of the guide rollers has come loose from the gate tower, they may then allow the gate to sway or shake when it operates. Tighten this bracket or replace this roller piece, and this may keep the gate steady as it moves.

Gate leans inward or outward

Your sliding gate should always stay upright, so if it seems to lean inward or outward, check the gate holder. This is a bracket on the gate keeper, which is the post the guide slides toward when it closes. As the gate closes completely, it should slide into this bracket and fit snugly. The bracket provides support for the gate, alleviating pressure on the rollers and other pieces that are meant to keep the gate upright. If this bracket is bent or not firmly connected to the gate keeper, the gate has no support and will lean. Tighten this bracket or replace it as needed.

Gate gets stuck or struggles to move

One of the first things to check when a sliding gate doesn't want to move is the track itself; it may need to be cleaned of some obstruction, built-up mud and twigs, or other such debris. The chains may also need oiling, as rust can cause them to tighten up and not pull the gate as they should. You might also check the wheels at the bottom of the gate; if either of these has come loose or is dented or otherwise damaged, this can keep the gate from sliding easily.