How to Fix a Sagging Wooden Gate

Gravity is the natural enemy of every wooden gate, eventually pulling the outer leading edge down until it drags against the ground or misses the latch entirely. When a gate starts to sag, it is usually because the joints have loosened over time or the weight of the wood is slowly racking the frame out of its perfect rectangular shape. Fixing this is a straightforward mechanical repair that does not require taking the gate down or rebuilding it from scratch. By installing a tension-based diagonal support, you can lift the leading edge back into alignment and lock it there. Done well, your gate will swing freely and close with a satisfying click, restoring the clean, functional look of your entry point.

1. Secure the hinges first. Remove any debris or obstructions from the ground that prevent the gate from opening fully. Ensure the hinge screws are tight; if they are stripped, replace them with longer wood screws to secure the hinges to the post.
2. Mount both anchor brackets. Attach the top anchor bracket to the hinge side of the gate near the top corner. Attach the bottom anchor bracket to the leading edge of the gate near the bottom corner.
3. Thread and clip the cable. Thread the steel cable through the turnbuckle and secure the ends to the anchor brackets using the provided wire rope clips. Ensure the cable is relatively taut before tightening the hardware.
4. Tighten until level. Rotate the central body of the turnbuckle clockwise to begin pulling the corners of the gate toward each other. Watch the leading edge rise as you tighten the cable.
5. Lock everything down. Once the gate is square, use the locking nuts on the turnbuckle to prevent the assembly from vibrating loose over time. Double-check that all wire rope clips are tightened to a firm, secure grip.
6. Test and fine-tune. Test the gate by opening and closing it several times to ensure the latch seats correctly. Adjust the turnbuckle slightly if the gate pulls too high or remains low.