Wood Gates Can Sag - But We Can Help
July 21, 2025
Ah, the infamous sagging wood gate—a charming quirk of Lake Charles living. When nature's finest material meets the test of time, it seeks its own path. Trees shed their age like leaves, leading
to drying, cracking, and the occasional rogue rot. Therefore, wooden gates can’t cling to perfection forever. But fear not! We've got some savvy tips to help keep your gate standing proud for years.
Too Much Weight:
A hefty gate can weigh you down—in more ways than one. If the gate leaf is larger than 5 feet, it risks drooping. At Fence Pro Lake Charles, we won’t install a single gate leaf beyond that width unless it boasts extra support, such as a sturdy wheel.
Some woods are just too dense for large gates. That's where cedar enters the scene, light as a whisper and tough as nails. It's our go-to choice for gate craftsmanship—be it wholly or in parts. Pressure-treated wood can be heavy, but cedar is the light champion. It’s perfect for privacy fences. Want to know why cedar reigns supreme? Dive deeper here.
Age :
Time is the great equalizer, and wood is no exception. It will inevitably crack, twist, and age with elegance (or not), which can complicate gate operations. Gates
have a busy life, swinging open and shut, bearing the brunt of life’s daily hustle. They take on more stress than their fence partners. So, you might need to replace them before the rest of your fence is ready to retire.
Weather:
Oh, the whimsical dance of the weather! Wood thrives on moisture but can swell like a sponge under rainy skies, transforming your gate into a stubborn sentry. When the clouds open, you might find your gate becoming an unwelcome puzzle. Never fear, however—it will regain its poise after a good drying spell. Keep a handy helper, like a bungee cord, for those times when your gate plays hard to get, especially when furry friends are at stake.
How we can help:
Your gate is the heartbeat of your fence, pivotal for everyday operations. If you’re grappling with gates that groan under age or sag like an old hammock, Fence Pro Lake Charles can swoop in to replace just the gates and posts. It’s an economical way to breathe new life into your fence, without a complete overhaul.
We know the ground has its way of settling, and we’re here to spring into action when misalignment strikes. Need an adjustment? Call us today, and let the experts assist you!
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