Natures Composites Modern Horizontal Privacy Perimeter Gate Installation Guide

Components

Note: Hardware kit is included in-between U-Posts in the box.

Diagram: Gate components layout illustrating the placement of parts A, B, C, D, E, F, G, H, I, and J.

Frequently Asked Question: Can my gate be Surface Mounted or only Buried?

Answer: Our gates are too heavy to be surface mounted. Please purchase and bury two NC 5x5 Commercial Grade Posts to hang your gate.

Before You Begin & Guidelines

Before You Begin:

• Verify Underground Utilities: Contact local utility companies or use utility location services (call 811) to ensure the installation area is clear of underground lines and potential hazards.
• Locate Property Lines: Confirm the fence placement is within property boundaries to prevent encroachment and comply with legal requirements.
• Review Local Building Codes: Check local codes for compliance and obtain necessary permits.
• Use Appropriate Safety Gear: Wear protective equipment including gloves, safety goggles, and work boots.

Tools Required:

• Rubber mallet (not included)
• #4 Phillips screwdriver
• Power drill (compatible with #4 Phillips head screwdriver)
• Torx T20 Bit
• Two 2x4 (6 ft long) wood lumber pieces

General Guidelines:

• Assembly requires an intermediate skill level and prior experience with tools.
• Position components on a sturdy work table.
• NC Gates are a fixed size (45.5 inches wide by 65 inches tall) and are not adjustable. Plan the gate opening accordingly.
• This full-size gate weighs approximately 90 pounds and requires strong support. You must purchase the matching NC 5x5 Commercial Post for mounting. Reinforce the composite post by inserting a 4x4 treated lumber post for extra strength.
• Ensure precise post positioning before securing them into the ground.

Frequently Asked Question: How should I space my posts if I'm adding a gate?

Answer: Use two NC 5x5 Commercial Posts. Space them 58 inches apart (outside to outside) to ensure proper hinge and latch function. For added strength, insert a 4x4 treated wood post inside each composite post. For gates with 3.5" ground clearance, burial depth is 24 inches. For 2" ground clearance, burial depth is 25.5 inches. For 2 or 3-board Ranch Rail Gates, burial depth is 16.5 inches.

Gate Installation Summary

1. Assemble the Metal Frame according to specifications.
2. Install the T&G Boards into the frame.
3. Position the Horizontal & Vertical U-Posts around the metal frames.
4. Fasten the Gate: Pre-drill 8 holes through composite holes into the metal frame and insert 8 cutting screws (F).
5. Attach Top Caps and secure with provided screws.

After assembly, refer to further instructions for mounting hardware and hanging the gate.

Part A: Gate Assembly Instructions

1. Metal Frame Assembly

Begin by assembling the metal frame, which serves as the structural backbone of the gate.

1.1 Connect the Frame Components

• Connect 2 Horizontal Upper/Lower Frames (G) with 2 Frame Extensions (H).
• Ensure components are aligned properly for a seamless connection.

Tips for a Secure Fit:

• The fit between parts (G and H) is designed to be tight for structural stability.
• Use a rubber mallet to gently tap components together, ensuring they are securely connected without damage.
• Start with light taps and gradually increase force as needed until parts are firmly joined.

Verify that all connections are tight and properly aligned before proceeding.

Frequently Asked Question: Can I cut my gate to adjust the size?

Answer: No, gates cannot be cut due to their metal inserts and structural design.

Diagram: Illustrates the connection of Horizontal Upper/Lower Frames (G) with Frame Extensions (H) to form the gate's metal frame.

2. Install the T&G Boards

Prepare the Work Area

Place the assembled frame on two support structures, such as 2x4 wood pieces, for stability and easier access.

Diagram: Shows the assembled gate frame supported by two 2x4 wood pieces.

Frequently Asked Question: Can I paint my gate?

Answer: No, painting is not advisable. Products are pre-finished with durable, lasting color and a textured, non-reflective surface. Occasional cleaning with soap and warm water is sufficient.

2.1 Position the T&G Boards

1. Insert the 5 Tongue & Groove (T&G) boards (C) into the frame.
2. Position the first board at one edge, aligning it within the U-channel.
3. Insert subsequent boards, sliding each board's tongue into the groove of the previous one for an interlocking fit.
4. Tip for the Final Board: Maneuver the last board gently side-to-side to fit its tongue into the preceding board's groove without forcing it.

Confirm the frame and boards remain stable on the support structures after installation.

Diagrams: Illustrate the insertion of Tongue & Groove (T&G) boards (C) into the gate frame.

3. Position the Horizontal and Vertical U-Posts

3.1 Insert the Vertical U-Posts

1. Take the 2 Vertical U-Posts (B) and insert them into the metal frame and T&G boards.
2. Align the U-Post channel with the edge of the metal frame and the sides of the T&G boards. Slide the U-Post fully in, ensuring it encloses the boards and frame securely.
3. Repeat for the opposite side.
4. Note: The length of the Vertical U-Post (B) should be equal on the top and bottom relative to the metal frame for proper alignment.

Diagrams: Show the insertion of Vertical U-Posts (B) into the assembled gate frame.

3.2 Insert the Horizontal U-Posts

1. Take the 2 Horizontal U-Posts (A) and prepare to insert them into the metal frame.
2. Adjust support structures to allow room for the first Horizontal U-Post (A).
3. Slide the first Horizontal U-Post (A) into the frame, ensuring its channel fits snugly over the metal frame edge and secures the square edge boards. Push it fully in.
4. Carefully slide supports to make space for the second Horizontal U-Post (A) and insert it similarly.

Key Notes: Double-check that all U-Posts (Vertical and Horizontal) are properly seated and aligned, fully enclosing the T&G boards and metal frame. The assembly should be secure with no visible gaps or misalignment.

Diagrams: Show the insertion of Horizontal U-Posts (A) into the assembled gate frame.

Part A: Securing the Gate

4. Secure the Gate

Fasten cutting screws (F) through the pre-drilled holes on the horizontal and vertical U-Posts (B) into the metal frame. This requires 10 screws (F) for a secure assembly.

4.1 Verify Alignment

Ensure the composite U-Posts (B) remain perfectly aligned with the factory pre-drilled holes in the metal frame.

4.2 Pre-Drill Holes into the Metal Frame

Using a power drill and a 17/64-inch drill bit, pre-drill 10 holes into the metal frame, guided by the U-Post holes. Drill carefully and perpendicular to the surface to maintain accurate alignment.

4.3 Insert Cutting Screws

Insert the cutting screws (F) into each pre-drilled hole on the composite U-Posts (B). DO NOT OVER-TIGHTEN. Use a power drill to drive screws securely.

4.4 Check Stability

After securing all 10 screws, verify the gate's stability. Ensure screws are tightened and U-Posts are firmly attached to the metal frame.

Diagram: Illustrates the locations for securing the gate with screws (F) into the U-Posts (B) and metal frame.

5. Top Cap Installation

1. Slide the Modern Sliding Top Cap (D) into the Top Cap Routed space on the top of the Horizontal U-Channel Post (A).
2. Fix into position using one 1 5/8 Torx composite screw (E) and a drill.
3. Repeat for all Vertical U-Channel Posts (B).

Diagram: Shows the process of installing the Top Cap (D) using a Torx composite screw (E).

Part B: Hanging the Modern Gate

Premium Hardware for Optimal Performance

NC gates are crafted for durability, weighing approximately 90 pounds. Proper installation is essential for smooth functionality and longevity.

Hinge Installation Note

Hinges must be secured through the composite material and into the metal frame to properly support the gate's weight and ensure optimal functionality.

Pre-Drill for the Gate Side:

Pre-drill holes using a 5/32" drill bit for hinge screws. Screws must penetrate the composite U-Post and the metal frame. Ensure proper alignment; 4 of the 6 screws on the gate side anchor into the metal frame for stability.

Pre-Drill 5x5 Commercial Gate Hanging Post:

You must use an NC 5x5 Commercial Post. Pre-drill holes using a 5/32" drill bit. Insert a 4x4 pressure treated post inside the 5x5 post for reinforcement. Ensure hinge screws penetrate both the 5x5 post and the 4x4 post insert for a secure connection.

Diagram: Shows the recommended hinge (HI) positioning, 2.5 inches from the top and bottom of the U-Post.

Frequently Asked Question: STOP! Have you attached all screws to the hinges?

Answer: Your D&D kit comes with 12 screws. Attach all 12 screws, including two into the leg side of each hinge to penetrate the internal steel frame, to prevent gate sagging.

D&D Manuals

NC partners with D&D Technologies for premium gate hardware. Each NC gate kit includes D&D hinges and a latch selected to support the gate's weight and design, engineered for optimal operation.

For further installation instructions, refer to the specific D&D hinge and latch model link: www.us.ddtech.com.

Note: Pre-drilled holes for hinge screws must go through the composite material and penetrate the internal metal frame.

Download Hinge, SKU# TCHDMA1S3BT: https://us.ddtech.com/products/truclose-multi-adjust-heavy-duty-series-3?variant=43821580943517

Download Latch, part # 210001, instructions: https://us.ddtech.com/products/wood-hardware-standard-post-latch

Post Installation & Support

Gate Opening Requirements

The opening between posts should measure 48 inches to accommodate the 45.5-inch-wide gate plus 1.25-inch clearance on each side for D&D hinges. Use two NC 5x5 Commercial Posts. Space posts 58 inches apart (outside to outside) for proper hinge and latch function.

Proper Support for Your Gate

The gate weighs approximately 90 pounds and requires robust support to ensure smooth operation and prevent sagging.

NC 5x5 Commercial Grade Composite Post:

• Matches gate color and material for a cohesive look.
• Outside dimensions: 5x5 inches.
• Inside dimensions: 3.87 inches (3 7/8").

Reinforcement:

Insert a 4x4 treated wood post (3.5" x 3.5") inside the 5x5 composite post for greatly increased strength and durability.

Diagram: Illustrates the NC 5x5 Commercial Post dimensions and the insertion of a 4x4 treated wood post for reinforcement. Ensure your post is plumb. ✅

Post Burial Recommendations

Select the Correct Post Length:

For full-size gates, choose a post length suitable for local soil and engineering conditions. NC offers 5x5 Commercial Posts in lengths of 94", 108", and 132". Consult your contractor for guidance.

Burial Depth and Concrete Requirements:

To ensure stability, bury at least 1/3 of the post length. For example, a 94" post should be buried 31 inches deep. Use a minimum of 80-100 pounds of concrete per post for a solid foundation. Ensure your post is plumb. ✅

Note: Double gates are not recommended as they are too heavy. Contact Natures Composites for custom solutions.

Part C: Installing Gate with NC Modern Fence System

Frequently Asked Question: Can I make a double gate with this model?

Answer: No, our gates are too heavy to be made into double gates and must be supported by two 5x5 NC commercial grade posts with a 4x4 pressure treated lumber insert.

Diagram: Shows the assembled gate attached to the 5x5 NC Commercial Post, with the 4x4 pressure treated post inserted, indicating dimensions for gate opening and post spacing.

1. Screw the U-Channel Fence Post to the 5x5 Post

Attach the NC U-Channel fence post to the 5x5 heavy duty post, ensuring the 4x4 pressure treated post is included within for extra strength.

Diagrams: Illustrate the 5x5 NC Commercial Post with the 4x4 Pressure Treated Post inserted.

2. Bury the Posts Together into the Ground

Assembled posts should be buried together in the ground.

Diagram: Shows the assembled posts being buried together in the ground. Ensure they are tightly screwed (indicated by a white line for differentiation).