Natures Composites Modern Horizontal Privacy Full Size Gate Installation Guide

Product Overview

This guide provides comprehensive instructions for the installation of the Natures Composites Modern Horizontal Privacy Full Size Gate. The gate is designed for durability and optimal performance, weighing approximately 90 pounds. Proper installation is crucial for smooth functionality and longevity.

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

Visit our resources page ? for more information.

Gate Specifications

Product: MODERN HORIZONTAL PRIVACY FULL SIZE GATE

Dimensions: 6 ft Height x 4 ft Width (Nominal: 65 in. x 45.5 in.)

Patents: US 11,053,707; US 12,110,703; US 12,084,880.

Components

The hardware kit is included in-between the U-Posts in the box.

Diagram Description: A visual representation of the gate components, showing the horizontal boards (C), vertical U-posts (B), horizontal frame pieces (G), frame extensions (H), hinges (I), and latch (J).

▶️ 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

The following instructions outline the assembly process for the Horizontal Privacy Full-Size Gate. You will find the CAD drawing 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. Install the T&G Boards: Insert the boards into the frame.
3. Position the Horizontal & Vertical U-Posts: Position the 2 Horizontal Posts around the top and bottom metal frames, then do the same with the 2 Vertical U-Posts.
4. Fasten the Gate: Pre-drill 8 holes (17/64") through the pre-drilled composite holes into the metal frame. Insert the 8 cutting screws (F) into the U-Posts into the metal frame.
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.

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.

   Diagram Description: Shows the assembly of the metal frame using horizontal frames (G) and frame extensions (H).

2. Install the T&G Boards

   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.

   Diagram Description: Illustrates placing the assembled frame on 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. Start by positioning 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 the board 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 before proceeding to the next step.

   Diagram Description: Visuals showing the insertion of 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 the T&G boards inside the frame.
   2. 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 all the way in, ensuring that both the T&G boards and the metal frame are fully enclosed within the U-Post channel.
   3. Repeat this process for the opposite side, ensuring the T&G 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.

   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.
   3. 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 T&G boards and the metal frame are fully enclosed within the U-Post channel.
   4. Once the first Horizontal U-Post (A) is fully inserted, carefully slide the 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.
   5. 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.

   Diagram Description: Illustrates the insertion of vertical (B) and horizontal (A) U-posts into the gate assembly.

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

4. Secure the Gate

   ? STOP! Have you attached all screws to the hinges?

   Your D&D kit package comes with 12 screws. Once you pre-drill your holes (see instructions left), you must attach all 12 screws, including inserting two screws into the leg side of each hinge into order to penetrate the internal steel frame. If you do not do this your gate will sag.

   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 into the metal frame. This process requires 10 pre-drilled holes and 10 screws for a secure and stable assembly.

   4.1 Verify Alignment

   The alignment of the composite U-Posts with the metal frame was completed in the previous step. Before proceeding, double-check to ensure that the alignment has not shifted. The pre-drilled holes on the U-Posts 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 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

   Once the pre-drilling is complete, insert the cutting screws 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.

   4.4 Check Stability

   After securing all 8 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.

   Diagram Description: Shows the locations (F) for securing the gate with screws.

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 (find these in the small package with screws).
   3. Repeat for all Vertical U-Channel Posts (B).

   Diagram Description: Illustrates the installation of the top cap (D) using screws (E) on the U-posts (A, B).

Part B: ? Hanging the Modern Gate

Premium Hardware for Optimal Performance

NC gates are crafted for durability, with the full-size gate weighing approximately 90 pounds. Proper installation is essential to ensure smooth functionality and longevity in your chosen location. *Please note D&D recommends a different positioning, please use NC recommendation (see image right).

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 5x5 Commercial Gate Hanging Post:

You must use an NC 5x5 Commercial Post to hang your gate. Pre-drill the holes on the 5x5 Commercial Post using the same 5/32" drill bit. Insert a 4x4 pressure treated post 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.

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 right).

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 # 210003, instructions here: https://us.ddtech.com/products/wood-hardware-standard-post-latch

Diagram Description: Illustrates the recommended hinge positioning on the vertical U-posts (B), showing a distance of 2.5 inches from the top and bottom.

❓ Can I cut my gate to adjust the size?

No! Our gates cannot be cut due to their metal inserts and structural design.

❓ Can I paint my gate?

No! Painting is not advisable. Our products come pre-finished with durable, lasting color and a textured, non-reflective surface. They're designed to maintain their appearance without the need for painting, staining, or sealing—just occasional cleaning with soap and warm water.

? 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.

Diagram Description: Shows gate dimensions (Gate Width 45.50", Gate Length 65") and post clearance (Gap 1.75" 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 90 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 of a full size gate should be reinforced 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.

?️ Post Burial Recommendations

Select the Correct Post Length:

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

Burial Depth and Concrete Requirements:

To ensure stability, we recommend burying 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 to provide a solid foundation. ✅ Make sure your post is plumb.

Diagram Description: Shows a cross-section of a post being buried, emphasizing the need for it to be 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 - don't forget the 4x4 pressure treated post within for extra strength!

Diagram Description: Shows the U-channel fence post attached to the 5x5 NC Commercial Post, with a 4x4 Pressure Treated Post inside the 5x5 post.

2. Bury the Posts Together into the Ground

2.1 Assembled posts should be buried together in the ground.

✅ Make sure these are tightly screwed (white line shown to differentiate products).

Diagram Description: Illustrates the assembled posts being buried in the ground.