Natures Composites Modern Horizontal Privacy Perimeter Gate

Overview

This guide provides instructions for installing the Natures Composites Modern Horizontal Privacy Perimeter Gate. The gate is designed for durability and requires proper installation for optimal performance and longevity.

Components

The gate frame consists of horizontal and vertical U-Posts and T&G boards, secured with specialized hardware.

Visual Description: A diagram shows the gate components labeled A through M, illustrating their placement in the assembled gate structure. A note indicates the hardware kit is included between the U-Posts in the box.

Before You Begin

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

Tools Required

• Rubber mallet (not included; for securing angle brackets)
• #4 Phillips screwdriver ?
• Power drill (compatible with #4 Phillips head) ?
• Torx T20 Bit (for fastening the top cap)

Gate Installation Summary

The gate frame uses horizontal and vertical U-Posts with a dual securing system:

1. Primary Fastening: Use 3-inch screws (G) through pre-drilled holes in vertical posts (B) into factory-installed female inserts in horizontal posts (A).
2. Angle Bracket Reinforcement: Install 4 angle brackets (F) using 8 round head cutting screws (E) through pre-drilled holes in posts, ensuring they penetrate the metal brackets.
3. Board & Spacer Installation: Boards (C) fit securely between U-shaped posts.

Visual Description: A diagram shows the basic gate frame structure with U-posts and horizontal elements, indicating the dual securing system.

Part A: Gate Assembly Instructions

1. Frame Assembly

This is the foundation of the gate, providing structural support.

1.1 Position the U-Posts:

Arrange one Horizontal U-Post (A) and two Vertical U-Posts (B) into a U-shape. Ensure alignment.

Visual Description: A diagram shows components A and B forming a U-shape.

1.2 Secure the Vertical U-Posts and Spacer:

Insert a 3-inch screw (G) through each Vertical U-Post (B) into the threaded coupler in the Horizontal U-Channel (A). Tighten securely with a manual Phillips screwdriver #4 to stabilize the frame and prevent over-tightening. A spacer (L) with a velcro dot (M) is attached to the angle bracket (F) inside the Vertical U-Post (B).

Visual Description: Diagrams show screws (G) being inserted into U-posts (A, B) and an angle bracket (F) with a spacer (L) and velcro dot (M) being secured.

2. NC Angle Bracket Installation

2.1 Position the Angle Bracket (F):

Place the Angle Bracket (F) in the corner where the Vertical U-Post (B) meets the Horizontal U-Post (A).

2.2 Secure Spacer to L-Bracket:

Affix velcro dot (M) to spacer (L) and attach to the corner of the L-Bracket (F) inside the Vertical U-Post (B).

Visual Description: Diagrams illustrate the placement of angle bracket (F) and the attachment of spacer (L) with velcro dot (M).

2.3 Insert the First Thread-Cutting Screw:

Start by inserting a Rounded Head Thread-Cutting Screw for Metal (E) through the pre-drilled hole in the Vertical U-Post (B) into the Angle Bracket (F). Do not over-tighten. Begin with the Vertical U-Post (B) to stabilize the bracket.

Visual Description: A diagram shows screw (E) being inserted through post (B) into bracket (F).

2.4 Secure the Screw:

Use a #4 Phillips power tool to drive the screw (E) into the Angle Bracket (F). Apply inward pressure to ensure secure penetration.

Visual Description: A diagram shows a power drill driving screw (E) into bracket (F).

2.5 Secure the Second Screw:

Secure the second screw (E) on the other side of the Angle Bracket (F) through the Horizontal U-Post (A). Apply inward pressure.

Visual Description: A diagram shows screw (E) being inserted through post (A) into bracket (F).

2.6 Secure the Second Angle Bracket:

Repeat the entire operation to secure the second Angle Bracket (F) on the opposite side of the bottom gate frame. Ensure all 4 screws (E) are securely inserted for stability.

Visual Description: A diagram shows the completed bottom frame with two angle brackets secured by screws.

3. Insert the First Square Edge Board

3.1 Insert the First Square Edge Board (C):

Carefully position and insert the first Square Edge Board (C) into the U-shaped frame. Ensure it is aligned within the channels of the Vertical U-Posts (A) and sits flush at the bottom. Double-check alignment for a snug fit.

Visual Description: Diagrams show board (C) being inserted into the U-shaped frame formed by posts (A) and (B).

3.2 Repeat for the Next Boards:

Insert the remaining 4 T&G Boards (C) into the Vertical U-Posts (B).

Visual Description: Diagrams show the gate frame with multiple boards (C) inserted.

4. Complete the Frame

Secure the top side of the frame similarly to steps 1 and 2.

4.1 Position the Angle Bracket (F):

Place the Angle Bracket (F) in the corner where the Vertical U-Post (B) meets the Horizontal U-Post (A).

4.2 Position the Horizontal U-Post (A):

Align and position the remaining Horizontal U-Post (A) on the top side of the frame, ensuring it fits securely.

4.3 Insert the 3-Inch Screw (G):

Insert the 3-inch screw (G) through the Vertical U-Post (B) into the threaded coupler in the Horizontal U-Channel (A). Repeat for both corners.

Visual Description: A diagram shows screw (G) being inserted into the top corner of the frame.

4.4 Insert the Thread-Cutting Screws (E):

Use a #4 Phillips power tool to drive the Rounded Head Thread-Cutting Screws (E) through the pre-drilled holes in the Horizontal U-Post (A) and Vertical U-Post (B) into the Angle Brackets (F). Apply inward pressure. Repeat on the opposite side. Ensure all screws, spacers, and brackets are secure for structural integrity.

Visual Description: Diagrams show screws (E) being driven into the top angle brackets. A warning states "Do not over-tighten!"

Part B: Hanging the Modern Gate

NC gates are crafted for durability, weighing approximately 55 pounds. Proper installation ensures smooth functionality.

Premium Hardware for Optimal Performance

Natures Composites partners with D&D Technologies for reliable hardware. Each gate kit includes D&D hinges (H) and a latch (I) selected for optimal operation.

For specific installation instructions for the D&D hinge (H) and latch (I), refer to the provided links:

• Hinge Installation Guide: https://us.ddtech.com/products/truclose-regular-for-metal-gates?variant=27661859717184
• Latch Installation Guide: https://us.ddtech.com/products/wood-hardware-regular-gravity-latch

Note: D&D may recommend different positioning; follow NC's recommendation shown in the diagram. Consult local regulations for latch height.

Visual Description: A diagram shows the gate with hinges (H) and latch (I) installed. A note specifies hinge positioning: approximately 6 inches from the top and bottom of the gate frame.

5. Top Cap Installation

5.1 Slide the Modern Sliding Top Cap (D):

Slide the Top Cap (D) into the routed space on the top of the Vertical U-Channel Post (B).

5.2 Fix into Position:

Use one 1 5/8 Torx composite screw (J) and a drill to secure the top cap. These screws are found in the small package with screws.

5.3 Repeat for all Vertical U-Channel Posts (B).

Visual Description: Diagrams show the top cap (D) being slid onto the post and secured with screw (J).

Part C: Gate Installation with NC Modern Fence System

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

1.1 Attach the NC U-Channel fence post to the 5x5 heavy-duty post.

Visual Description: Diagrams show a 5x5 NC Commercial Post and a 4x4 Pressure Treated Post, illustrating how the U-Channel fence post attaches to the commercial post. A note emphasizes that these should be tightly screwed together.

2. Bury the Posts Together into the Ground

2.1 Assembled posts should be buried together in the ground.

Visual Description: A diagram shows the assembled posts being buried.

Post Installation and Support

Gate Opening Requirements

Accurate measurement is crucial for proper fit and function of hinges and latch.

Recommended Gate Opening: 47 inches between posts to accommodate the 45.5-inch gate width plus 0.75 inches clearance on each side for hinges.

Proper Support for Your Gate

The gate's weight (approx. 55 pounds) requires robust support to prevent sagging. Use the NC 5x5 Commercial Post, reinforced with a 4x4 treated lumber post for extra strength.

Post Burial Recommendations

Select Correct Post Length: Choose a length suitable for local soil and engineering conditions. NC offers 5x5 Commercial Posts in 94", 108", and 132" lengths. Consult a contractor for guidance.

Burial Depth and Concrete Requirements: Bury at least 1/3 of the post length. For a 94" post, bury 31 inches deep. Use a minimum of 80 pounds of concrete per post for a solid foundation. Ensure the post is plumb (vertically straight).

Visual Description: A diagram illustrates post burial depth recommendations: minimum 24 inches burial depth, and the hole for footing should be three times the post diameter. A note emphasizes ensuring the post is plumb. Another note mentions that for double gates, a 4x4 or metal stiffener is required in both NC 5x5 posts.

Diagram Dimensions Summary: The gate opening is 47 inches wide. The gate panel itself is 45.50 inches wide, with 0.75 inches clearance on each side.