Natures Composites

Components Included

Diagram showing the gate structure with labeled components A through L, including horizontal and vertical U-posts, frame pieces, and boards.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Before You Begin

A. 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).

B. Locate Property Lines

Confirm the fence will be placed within your property boundaries to prevent encroachment and comply with any applicable legal requirements.

C. 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.

D. Use Appropriate Safety Gear

Wear protective equipment, including gloves, safety goggles, and work boots, to ensure a safe installation.

Tools Required

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

Gate Installation Summary

Diagram showing the gate's overall dimensions: 45.50" width and 42.44" height.

Guidelines for Correct Operation

• This assembly requires an intermediate skill level. Prior experience with tools and assembly techniques is necessary.
• For assembly, position components on a sturdy work table.
• NC Gates are a fixed size of 45.5 inches wide by 42.44 inches tall and are not adjustable. Proper planning for the gate opening is essential.
• This full-size gate weighs approximately 60 pounds and requires strong support. Use the matching NC 5x5 Commercial Post. Reinforce the composite post by inserting a 4x4 treated lumber post for extra strength.
• Post Installation Accuracy: Take the time to position the posts where the gate will be hung with precision before securing them into the ground.

Part A: Gate Assembly Instructions

1. Metal Frame Assembly

Assemble the Metal Frame

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.

Verify all connections are tight and properly aligned before proceeding to the next step.

2. Install the Square Edge Boards and Spacers

2.1 Prepare the Work Area

Place the assembled frame on two support structures, such as 2x4 wood pieces. This setup provides stability and elevates the frame for easy access when positioning the U-Posts.

Diagram illustrating the assembled gate frame placed on two 2x4 wood support pieces.

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

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

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).

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.

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

Diagrams illustrating the placement of Square Edge Boards (C) and Spacers (K) within the frame, showing the use of Velcro dots (L) for adhesion.

3. Position the Horizontal and Vertical U-Posts

3.1 Insert the Vertical U-Posts

• 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.
• Repeat this process for the opposite side, ensuring the Square Edge boards and the metal frame are enclosed and aligned on both vertical edges.

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.

Diagram showing the insertion of Vertical U-Posts (B) into the gate frame.

3.2 Insert the Horizontal U-Posts

• Take the 2 Horizontal U-Posts (A) and prepare to insert them into the metal frame.
• 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.
• Once the first Horizontal U-Post (A) is fully inserted, carefully slide the support structures to provide space for the second Horizontal U-Post (A). Ensure assembled pieces remain in place.
• 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.

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.

Diagrams illustrating the insertion of Horizontal U-Posts (A) into the gate frame.

4. Secure the Gate

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

4.1 Verify Alignment

Double-check the alignment of the composite U-Posts (B) with the metal frame. 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 for alignment.

• 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.

Diagram showing the placement of screws (F) to secure the U-Posts to the metal frame.

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 the screws securely into the metal frame.

4.4 Check Stability

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

• Slide the Modern Sliding Top Cap (D) into the Top Cap Routed space on the top of the Horizontal U-Channel Post (A).
• Secure into position using one 1 3/4 Torx composite screw (E) and a drill.
• Repeat for all Vertical U-Channel Posts (B).

Diagram illustrating the installation of the Top Cap (D) onto the Horizontal U-Channel Post (A) using a screw (E).

Part B: Hanging the Modern Gate

Premium Hardware for Optimal Performance

NC gates are crafted for durability, weighing approximately 60 pounds. Proper installation is essential to ensure smooth functionality and longevity.

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.

Diagram showing the recommended hinge position on the U-Post, 2.5 inches from the top and bottom.

D&D Manuals

NC partners with D&D Technologies for hinges and latches. This premium hardware is engineered to deliver optimal operation. For further installation instructions, refer to the provided links. Note: Please use NC recommended positioning over D&D's if there is a difference.

• 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

STOP! Have you attached all screws to the hinges? Your D&D kit package comes with 12 screws. Once you pre-drill your holes, you must attach all 12 screws, including inserting two screws into the leg side of each hinge to penetrate the internal steel frame. If you do not do this, your gate will sag.

Gate Opening Requirements

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

Proper Support for Your Gate

For optimal performance and durability, it's important to understand that the 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 for a cohesive look.

• NC 5x5 Commercial Post dimensions: Outside dimensions 5x5 inches; Inside dimensions 3.87 inches (3 7/8").
• The NC 5x5 NC post should be reinforced by inserting a 4x4 treated wood post inside the composite post for increased strength and durability.
• Commercial 4x4 treated wood post dimension: 3.5 X 3.5".

Diagram showing the NC 5x5 Commercial Post with a 4x4 treated wood post inserted for reinforcement, 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

• Attach the NC U-Channel fence post to the 5x5 heavy duty post using 4 screws. Ensure the 4x4 pressure treated post is within for extra strength.

Diagram showing the attachment of the U-Channel Fence Post to the 5x5 post, with the 4x4 post inside.

2. Bury the Posts Together into the Ground

• Assembled posts should be buried together in the ground.

Diagram illustrating the assembled posts being buried in the ground, with a note to ensure they are tightly screwed.