How to Make a Gate for a Poultry Fence

All poultry fences need a gate for access to the inside of the poultry run and to prevent carnivorous animals from entering the run. Gate designs are simple and easy to make with some 2-by-4s, chicken wire and hardware. The size of the gate depends on the size of the poultry fence, but it should be large enough for the owner of the birds to comfortably fit through to clean the coop and bring food and water to the birds.

Things You'll Need

  • 2-by-4 lumber
  • Circular saw
  • Hand saw
  • Hand drill
  • Drill bit
  • 1/2-inch wood screws, 2
  • Heavy-duty staple gun
  • Staples
  • Chicken wire
  • Wire cutters
  • Door hinges
  • Door latch
  • Door handle
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Instructions

    • 1

      Decide on the location of the gate door. The gate must be installed between two vertical posts and should be positioned on flat ground.

    • 2

      Determine the size of the gate door. Measure the height of the poultry fence and the width of the opening where the gate will be installed. Allow for a 1/2-inch gap on each side of the gate for a proper fit, and 1 to 4 inches of ground clearance at the bottom of the gate.

    • 3

      Cut four 2-by-4s to the measurements from Step One. Assemble a rectangle frame so the 4-inch side of the lumber is facing out, then drill two pilot holes in each corner on the top and bottom of the frame and insert the screws.

    • 4

      Measure the frame diagonally from the upper-left corner to the lower-right corner. Cut a 2-by-4 to size, angling the cuts with the circular saw to fit flush against the sides of the frame. Drill two pilot holes on each end of the 2-by-4 and insert screws.

    • 5

      Clip the chicken wire to the size of the frame with wire cutters and staple the wire to the gate frame. Drill pilot holes and screw in a door handle.

    • 6

      Position the gate in between the vertical posts of the fence. Put wood blocks under the door to prop it up to the correct high for installation.

    • 7

      Mark the spots where the door hinges will be installed, one must on the top of the door and one on the bottom. Drill pilot holes into the vertical post and the gate frame, then insert the screws.

    • 8

      Install the door latch to the outside of the fence with screws.