Natures Composites Modern Horizontal Privacy Full Size Gate

Product Overview

Natures Composites offers the Modern Horizontal Privacy Full Size Gate, designed for durability and aesthetic appeal in outdoor living spaces. This guide provides comprehensive instructions for assembly and installation.

The gate is approximately 90 pounds and requires robust support for optimal performance and longevity.

Patents: US 11,053,707; US 12,110,703; US 12,084,880. Other patents are pending.

For more information or questions, visit www.naturescomposites.com or call (307) 338-2608.

Components

The Modern Horizontal Privacy Full Size Gate (Nominal: 65 in. x 45.5 in.) includes the following components:

*Please note hardware kit is included in-between U-Posts in box.

Before You Begin

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

• 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 will be placed within your property boundaries to prevent encroachment and comply with legal requirements.
• Review Local Building Codes: Check local codes for compliance and obtain any necessary permits before installation.
• Use Appropriate Safety Gear: Wear protective equipment, including gloves, safety goggles, and work boots.

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

Follow these steps for assembling the Horizontal Privacy Full-Size Gate:

1. Assemble the Metal Frame according to provided 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 by pre-drilling 8 holes and inserting 8 cutting screws (F) into the U-Posts and metal frame.
5. Attach Top Caps to each corner of the gate and secure with provided screws.

Refer to additional instructions for mounting hardware and hanging the gate onto posts after assembly.

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 for structural stability.
• Use a rubber mallet to gently tap components together, ensuring they are securely connected without damaging the frame. Start with light taps and gradually increase force until parts are firmly joined.

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

2. Install the T&G Boards

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 Description: Shows the assembled metal frame resting on two 2x4 wood pieces.

2.1 Position the T&G Boards:

1. Take the 10 Tongue & Groove (T&G) boards and begin inserting them into the frame.
2. Position the first board at one edge of the frame, ensuring it aligns properly within the U-channel.
3. Insert subsequent boards one by one, sliding each board's tongue into the groove of the previous board to create a snug, interlocking fit.

Tip for the Final Board: The last T&G board may require careful maneuvering to fit its tongue into the groove of the preceding board. Use a gentle side-to-side motion to guide the board into place without forcing it, ensuring it sits flush within the frame.

After all 10 boards are securely installed and aligned, confirm that the frame and boards remain stable on the support structures.

Diagram Description: Illustrates T&G boards being slotted into the gate frame, showing the tongue-and-groove connection.

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 T&G 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 T&G boards. Slide the U-Post into place until it fits securely and is fully enclosed within the U-Post channel, securing both the T&G boards and the metal frame.
• Repeat this process for the opposite side, ensuring alignment 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 to maintain proper alignment.

Diagram Description: Shows a vertical U-post (B) being slid into place along the edge of the gate frame, enclosing the T&G boards (C) and metal frame. Arrows indicate the direction of insertion.

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 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 its channel fits snugly over the edge of the metal frame and secures the Square Edge boards. Push the U-Post all the way in.
• Carefully slide the support structures to provide space for the second Horizontal U-Post (A) and insert it in the same manner.

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

Diagram Description: Shows a horizontal U-post (A) being slid into place over the top edge of the gate frame, securing the T&G boards (C). Arrows indicate the direction of insertion.

4. Secure the Gate

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

4.1 Verify Alignment:

Ensure the composite U-Posts are perfectly aligned with the metal frame beneath. The pre-drilled holes on the U-Posts must align with 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 where the pre-drilled holes in the U-Posts 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.

4.3 Insert Cutting Screws:

• Insert the cutting screws (F) into each pre-drilled hole on the composite U-Posts.
• Use a power drill to drive the screws securely into the metal frame.
• Tighten all 10 screws until they are flush with the U-Posts' surface, ensuring a seamless and robust connection. DO NOT OVER-TIGHTEN.

Diagram Description: Shows the gate frame with screw locations marked by red circles. A close-up shows a screw being driven into the U-post and metal frame with a drill.

4.4 Check Stability:

After securing all screws, verify the gate's stability. Ensure all screws are tightened and 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).
• Fix into position using one 1 5/8" Torx composite screw (E) and a drill.
• Repeat for all Vertical U-Channel Posts (B).

Diagram Description: Shows a top cap (D) being slid onto a horizontal U-channel post (A). A screw (E) is shown being used to secure it. The process is repeated for vertical U-channel posts (B).

Part B: Hanging the Modern Gate

Premium Hardware for Optimal Performance

NC gates are crafted for durability and weigh approximately 90 pounds. Proper installation is essential for smooth functionality and longevity. Note that D&D Technologies recommends different positioning; Natures Composites recommends their own positioning (see image).

Diagram Description: Shows the recommended hinge placement on the vertical U-posts (B), indicating placement 2.5 inches from the top and bottom.

Hinge Installation Note:

• The NC Gate requires hinges to be secured through the composite material and into the metal frame to properly support the gate's weight.
• Pre-Drill for the Gate Side: Pre-drill holes using a 5/32" drill bit for the hinge screws. Screws must penetrate the composite U-Post and the metal frame. Ensure proper alignment so screws securely fasten into the metal frame; 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 additional reinforcement. Ensure hinge screws penetrate both the 5x5 post and the 4x4 post insert for a secure connection.

D&D Manuals

Natures Composites partners with D&D Technologies for reliable gate hardware. Every NC gate kit includes D&D hinges and a latch. For further installation instructions, refer to the provided links:

• Download Hinge, SKU# TCHDMA1S3BT: us.ddtech.com/products/truclose-multi-adjust-heavy-duty-series-3?variant=43821580943517
• Download Latch, part # 210003, instructions: us.ddtech.com/products/wood-hardware-standard-post-latch

Note: For hinge screws, the pre-drilled hole must go through the composite material and penetrate the internal metal frame.

Part C: Installing Gate with NC Modern Fence System

Gate Opening Requirements

For proper hardware spacing, the opening between posts should measure 48 inches. This accommodates the 45.5-inch-wide gate plus 1.25-inch clearance on each side for hinges. Use two NC 5x5 Commercial Posts; standard posts will not support the weight. Space posts 58" apart (outside to outside) to ensure proper hinge and latch function.

Proper Support for Your Gate

The full-size NC gate weighs approximately 90 pounds and requires robust support for smooth operation and to prevent sagging.

• Natures Composites offers a 5x5 Commercial Grade Composite Post that matches the gate's color and material.
• NC 5x5 Commercial Post dimensions: Outside 5"x5", Inside 3.87" (3 7/8").
• For gate support, reinforce the NC 5x5 post by inserting a 4x4 treated wood post (3.5"x3.5") inside it for increased strength and durability.

Post Burial Recommendations

• Select the Correct Post Length: Choose a post length suitable for your 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: Bury at least 1/3 of the post length in the ground. 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 the post is plumb.

Diagram Description: Shows a gate opening with dimensions: Gate Width 45.50", Post Clearance 48.00", Gap 1.75" on each side. Also shows a diagram for post burial, illustrating a post in the ground with concrete, with a note to ensure the post is plumb.

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 inserted within for extra strength.

Diagram Description: Illustrates the attachment of the U-channel fence post to the 5x5 NC Commercial Post, showing the 4x4 Pressure Treated Post inside the 5x5 post. A detail shows the connection points and a note about tight screwing.

2. Bury the Posts Together into the Ground

Assembled posts should be buried together in the ground.