A fence gate that won’t open, won’t close, or has fallen off its hinges is a security issue. Most gate problems are fixable in under two hours.
Fix 1: Tightening Loose Hinges
Tighten all hinge screws. If screws won’t grip, fill the holes with wooden toothpicks and wood glue, let dry for an hour, then reinsert the screws.
Fix 2: Replacing Broken Hinges
Remove the gate from the post. Unscrew the old hinges. Screw new gate hinges to the gate first, then to the post. Check the gate hangs level before fully tightening.
Fix 3: Fixing a Warped Gate
Attach a wire tensioner diagonally from the top corner on the hinge side to the bottom corner on the latch side. Tighten gradually until the gate sits square.
Fix 4: Repairing the Latch
Loosen the latch plate screws, reposition so the latch engages correctly, and retighten. If the latch mechanism is broken replace it entirely.