Natures Composites

Product Overview

Product: Three-Board Ranch Rail Gate

Nominal Dimensions: 3.5 ft x 4 ft (42" x 45.5")

Visual: A diagram showing the gate with dimensions 45.50" width and 42.44" height, with 1 1/4" markings.

Components List

*Hardware kit is included in-between U-Posts in box.

Before You Begin

Ensure a safe and compliant installation by following these preliminary steps:

1. Verify Underground Utilities: Before starting, contact local utility companies or use utility location services to ensure the installation area is clear of underground lines and potential hazards (call 811).
2. Locate Property Lines: Confirm the fence will be placed within your property boundaries to prevent encroachment and comply with any applicable legal requirements.
3. Review Local Building Codes: Check local building codes to ensure your installation complies with all requirements. Obtain any necessary permits prior to beginning the installation.
4. Use Appropriate Safety Gear: Wear protective equipment, including gloves, safety goggles, and work boots, to ensure a safe installation.

Tools Required

• A. Rubber mallet (not included; used for securing angle brackets)
• B. #4 Phillips screwdriver
• C. Power drill (compatible with a #4 Phillips head screwdriver)
• D. Torx T20 Bit (for fastening the top cap)
• E. Two 2x4 (6 ft long) wood lumber pieces as support

General Installation Guidelines

Gate Assembly Process Overview

The following instructions outline the assembly process for the shown gate. You will find the CAD drawing exploded view with all components, followed by a fully assembled gate view in transparent format, allowing you to easily identify each part behind the composite U-Posts and boards.

1. Assemble the Metal Frame: Begin by assembling the metal frame according to the provided specifications.
2. Position the Frame: Place the assembled metal frame inside the composite U-Posts.
3. Install the Boards & Spacers: Insert the boards into the frame, ensuring they fit securely within the U-Posts.
4. Secure the Gate: Fasten the structure by installing four 3-inch screws—one at each corner.
5. Attach Top Caps: Slide the top caps onto each corner of the gate and secure them using the provided screws.

Once the gate is fully assembled, refer to the additional instructions for mounting the hardware and hanging the gate onto the posts.

Visual: A diagram illustrating the gate installation summary with dimensions.

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

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

Tips for a Secure Fit:

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

Once the frame components are fully assembled, verify that all connections are tight and properly aligned before proceeding to the next step.

Visual: Diagram showing the connection of horizontal frame parts (G) with frame extensions (H).

2. Install the Square Edge Boards and Spacers

2.1 Prepare the Work Area

To facilitate the assembly process, place the assembled frame on two support structures, such as 2x4 wood pieces.

• This setup provides stability and elevates the frame just enough for easy access in the next step when the U-Posts are positioned.

Visual: Diagram showing the assembled metal frame elevated on two 2x4 wood pieces.

2.2 Insert the First Square Edge Board (C) and 9" Spacers (K)

1. Add First Board: Carefully position and insert the first Square Edge Board (C) into the metal gate frame.
2. Apply Velcro Dots to first Spacer: Attach 4 Velcro dots (included) to the 9" spacer (L). Ensure the adhesive backing of each Velcro dot is applied to the spacer, with the Velcro side facing outward.

Tip: Place the four Velcro dots together (hook and loop connected) to simplify alignment. Ensure the adhesive backing on one side is firmly stuck to the spacer, while the other adhesive side is ready to stick to the Vertical U-Post (B) groove during installation.

2.3 Insert the Spacer (K)

• Place the 9" spacer (K) on top of the installed Square Edge Board (C).
• Ensure the spacer is properly positioned. It should rest fully on the Square Edge Board (C).

Visual: Diagram showing a spacer (K) with Velcro dots (L) attached, and a board (C) being inserted.

4.3 Repeat for the Next Boards

• Insert the next 2 Square Edge Boards (C) into the metal frame.
• Position a 9.8" spacer (L) between each board, ensuring proper alignment and adhesion using the 4 Velcro dots per spacer.

Note: Double-check that each spacer and board are properly seated and aligned before proceeding to maintain structural stability and consistent spacing.

Visual: Diagrams showing the arrangement of multiple boards (C) and spacers (K/L) within 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 the Square Edge boards inside the frame.
• Align the channel of the Vertical U-Post (B) with the edge of the metal frame and the sides of the Square Edge boards. Slide the U-Post into place until it fits securely and is all the way in, ensuring that both the Square Edge boards and the metal frame are fully enclosed within the U-Post channel.
2. Repeat this process for the opposite side, ensuring the Square Edge boards and the metal frame are enclosed and aligned on both vertical edges.

Note: The length of the Vertical U-Post (B) should be equal on both the top and bottom relative to the metal frame. Ensure that the gaps at the top and bottom of the U-Post are identical to maintain proper alignment and aesthetic balance.

Visual: Diagram illustrating the insertion of vertical U-posts (B) into the gate assembly.

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 the 2 support structures (e.g., 2x4s) to provide enough room for the first Horizontal U-Post (A) to fit into the frame.
• Slide the first Horizontal U-Post (A) into the frame, ensuring that its channel fits snugly over the edge of the metal frame and secures the Square Edge boards in place.
• Push the U-Post all the way in, ensuring that the Square Edge boards and the metal frame are fully enclosed within the U-Post channel.
3. Once the first Horizontal U-Post (A) is fully inserted, carefully slide the 2 support structures to provide space for the second Horizontal U-Post (A). Make sure to do this carefully to ensure that the assembled pieces remain in place during this process.
4. Insert the second Horizontal U-Post (A) in the same manner, ensuring that its channel also fits securely into the metal frame and encloses the Square Edge boards.

Key Notes: Double-check that all U-Posts (both Vertical and Horizontal) are properly seated and aligned, fully enclosing the Square Edge boards and the metal frame. At this stage, the assembly should be secure, with no visible gaps or misalignment.

Visual: Diagrams showing the insertion of horizontal U-posts (A) into the gate assembly.

4. Secure the Gate

At this stage, you are ready to secure the gate by fastening the cutting screws through the pre-drilled holes on the horizontal and vertical U-Posts (B) into the metal frame. This process requires 10 pre-drilled holes (pre-drilled at factory - no need for you to do it) and 10 screws (F) for a secure and stable assembly. Follow these steps:

4.1 Verify Alignment

The alignment of the composite U-Posts (B) with the metal frame was completed in the previous step. Before proceeding, double-check to ensure that the alignment has not shifted. The factory pre-drilled holes on the U-Posts (B) must remain perfectly aligned with the metal frame beneath.

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 at each location using the factory pre-drilled holes in the U-Posts as a guide—this way the holes will align.

• Drill carefully through the composite U-Posts and into the metal frame to maintain accurate alignment.
• Tip: Keep the drill perpendicular to the surface to avoid misaligned holes and ensure a precise fit for the screws.

Visual: Diagrams showing screws (F) being driven through U-posts (B) into the metal frame (A/C).

4.3 Insert Cutting Screws

Once the pre-drilling is complete, 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 the screws securely into the metal frame.

4.4 Check Stability

After securing all 10 screws, verify the gate's stability. Ensure that all screws are tightened and that the U-Posts are firmly and uniformly attached to the 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 3/4 Torx composite screw (E) and a drill (find these in the small package with screws).
3. Repeat for all Vertical U-Channel Posts (B).

Visual: Diagram showing a top cap (D) being attached to a post (A) with a screw (E).

Part B: Hanging the Modern Gate

Premium Hardware for Optimal Performance

NC gates are crafted for durability, with the gate weighing approximately 60 pounds. Proper installation is essential to ensure smooth functionality and longevity in your chosen location.

Hinge Installation Note

The NC Gate requires the hinges to be secured into the gate 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 the hinge screws. On the gate, the hinge screws must penetrate the composite U-Post and the metal frame. Ensure proper alignment so the screws securely fasten into the metal frame; 4 of the 6 screws on the gate side will anchor into the metal frame for stability.

Pre-Drill for the Post Side:

If using an NC 5x5 Commercial Post, pre-drill the holes using the same 5/32" drill bit. Insert a 4x4 post insert inside the 5x5 post for additional reinforcement. Ensure the hinge screws penetrate both the 5x5 post and the 4x4 post insert for a secure connection.

Visual: Diagram showing hinge placement on the U-Post, indicating 2.5" from the top and bottom.

D&D Manuals

To provide a reliable and hassle-free experience, NC has partnered with D&D Technologies, the premier gate hardware manufacturer. Every NC gate kit includes a pair of D&D hinges and a latch, selected specifically to support the weight and design of our gates. This premium hardware is engineered to deliver optimal operation, ensuring that your gate functions smoothly and securely over time.

For further installation instructions, please refer to the provided link for the specific D&D hinge and latch model included in the gate kit (www.us.ddtech.com). *Please note D&D recommends a different positioning; please use NC recommendation (see image above).

Note: For the hinge screws, the pre-drilled hole needs to go through the composite material and penetrate through 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, installation guide: https://us.ddtech.com/products/wood-hardware-regular-gravity-latch

Gate Opening Requirements

To properly accommodate the NC gate width and required hardware spacing, the opening between posts should measure 48 inches. This allows the 45.5-inch-wide gate plus 1.25-inch clearance on each side, as needed for the D&D hinges. To add a gate, you must use two NC 5x5 Commercial Posts—standard posts will not support the weight. Since the gate is 48" wide, and each 5x5 post is 5.5" wide, so space them 58" apart (outside to outside). This ensures proper hinge and latch function.

Visual: Diagram showing gate opening dimensions, with the gate width of 45.50" and total opening of 48.00", indicating 1 1/4" clearance on each side.

Proper Support for Your Gate

For optimal performance and durability, it's important to understand that our full-size NC gate weighs approximately 60 pounds. Due to this weight, it needs robust support to ensure smooth operation and prevent sagging over time.

NC offers a 5x5 Commercial Grade Composite Post that matches the gate's color and material, offering a cohesive, seamless look.

• NC 5x5 Commercial post dimension.
• Outside dimensions 5X5 inches.
• Inside dimensions 3.87 inches (3 7/8").

The NC 5X5 NC post, when used as support for a full-size gate, should be reinforced by inserting a 4x4 treated wood post inside the composite post. This added reinforcement greatly increases the strength and durability of the post.

• Commercial 4x4 treated wood post dimension is 3.5 X 3.5".
• This lumber post will fit inside our 5X5 NC Commercial post.

Visual: Diagram illustrating a 5x5 post with a 4x4 post inside, and a note to ensure the post is plumb.

Part C: Installing Gate 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 using 4 screws - don't forget the 4x4 pressure treated post within for extra strength!

Visual: Diagram showing the NC U-Channel fence post attached to a 5x5 NC Commercial Post, with a 4x4 Pressure Treated Post inside the 5x5 post. A note indicates to ensure they are tightly screwed.

2. Bury the Posts Together into the Ground

2.1 Assembled posts should be buried together in the ground.