Measuring guide
Tips and Key Steps for Installing Your Gate Outdoors
Looking to install a gate to secure your property and enhance your outdoor space? Before you buy, taking accurate measurements is crucial. This guide walks you through how to measure for your gate, choose the right type (swing or sliding), and avoid common mistakes.
1. Measuring the Width Between Posts

Measure the inside distance between the two posts at three different heights:
Why three measurements? Posts may not be perfectly parallel—especially on older installations or if they've shifted over time.
Record the smallest of the three measurements—this is the usable width for your gate.
If the difference between measurements is more than 1/2 inch, check the alignment of your posts before installation. For example: If you measure 119.3" at the top, 118.5" in the middle, and 118.9" at the bottom, use 118.5" as your reference width.
2. Measuring the Height from Ground to Under the Post Cap
Next, measure the total height available from the finished ground level up to the bottom of the post cap (or post cover).
- • Measure on both sides, as the ground may slope slightly.
- • The final gate height should be 2 to 4 inches less than the available height to allow clearance for hinges and opening.
Make sure the rack and gate opener will fit without interfering with the gate height.

3. Special Case: If You Don't Have Posts Yet
If you're building your entryway from scratch:
- • Plan for a total gap = gate opening + 3 to 4 inches (for hinges and hardware),
- • Position your posts based on the type of opening (inward or outward),
4. Check That the Ground Is Level
The ground should be flat and level across the entire width of the gate.
If there's a slope:
- • You can open the gate outward (if allowed by local regulations),
- • Or choose a custom model with adjustable hinges or an asymmetrical swing gate (one leaf smaller than the other).
Pro tip:
Use a spirit level or laser level to check for any height differences.
A slope greater than 3/4 inch per 3 feet can cause issues with opening the gate.
In Summary:
Measure the width between your posts at three heights (top, middle, bottom) for accuracy.
Note the available height from the ground to the post cap, leaving a 2 to 4 inch gap.
Check that the ground is level and posts are plumb before installing.
Consider gate automation when measuring to avoid surprises during installation.
Choose your gate style based on your layout: swing gates for wide, straight entries; sliding gates for narrow spaces or sloped driveways.
If you're unsure, consult a professional for on-site measuring—it's the best way to ensure a perfect fit.
A question about this product?
ZOE Aluminum Swing Gate Kit
The ZOE gate kit is designed to let natural light into your yard while clearly marking your property entrance. Its semi-openwork design creates a welcoming, modern look for any outdoor space.
Available in anthracite gray, black, green, red, brown, or white, it blends seamlessly with any landscape style.
Guaranteed cheapest product on the web
Found it cheaper elsewhere? We'll refund the difference.
Made in
France & Europe
Flexible Payment Options
10-Year
Anti-Corrosion Warranty
Home delivery
or in-store pickup
The stylish ZOE aluminum gate kit is a practical solution for securing your yard and defining your entryway. Featuring two manually operated swing panels, it provides easy access in and out of your property.
Aluminum is a popular choice for outdoor fencing and gates thanks to its weather resistance and lightweight properties. This makes it a long-lasting investment for your home. The gate's clean, understated design complements a wide range of exterior styles.
To offer a high-quality aluminum gate at an affordable price, this model comes as a self-assembly kit. This helps reduce shipping and installation costs. Clear installation guides are included, so even those new to DIY can handle the setup with confidence.
Kit includes
Lock and hardware
Post caps
Center stop
Meeting seal
Stainless steel strike plate
Top and bottom hinges
Benefits of the ZOE aluminum swing gate kit
- Great value: Lower costs thanks to the kit format
- Durable build: Manufactured in France for premium quality
- Easy assembly: Straightforward installation, even for beginners
Additional information
- Qualicoat and Qualimarine certified for rust and corrosion protection
- Made in Gironde, France – 5-year warranty (1 year for accessories and hardware)
Installing the ZOE aluminum swing gate kit
Both gate panels open manually and the gate is reversible for left or right-hand opening. The installation process is straightforward with our step-by-step instructions. For best results, we recommend two people for the installation.
This gate is suitable for installation between:
– posts spaced 3000 mm to 3050 mm for the 3000 mm model,
– or 3500 mm to 3550 mm for the 3500 mm model.
Note: The listed height refers to the measurement from the ground to the top of the installed gate.
Available colours
Green RAL 6005
Gray 7016
Black RAL 9005
White 9010
Brown 1247
Red RAL 3004
Data sheet
- Width
- 3 ft 11 in or 11 ft 6 in
- Weight
- 51
- Infill type
- Bars 200 x 20 mm
- Thickness
- 2 mm
- Post
- 102 x 38 mm
- Opening Direction
- 102 x 30 mm
- Material
- Aluminum
- Origin
- France
- Warranty
- Portail : 5 ans / Accessoires : 1 an
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The aluminum swing gate kit offers both cost savings and quality, as assembling it yourself helps lower installation expenses. Aluminum is highly resistant to weather, lightweight, and easy to handle. Our models are reversible, allowing you to choose left or right opening, and can be motorized later for added convenience.
Assembling a gate kit is straightforward, even if you don't have much DIY experience. Our detailed instructions walk you through each step, making installation clear and manageable. For safety, we recommend having two people on hand when handling the gate panels.
An aluminum gate can last over 20 years with minimal maintenance, thanks to its natural resistance to corrosion. Districlos models feature high-quality powder coating that helps maintain their appearance over time. This durability makes aluminum gates a long-lasting investment, especially when compared to materials like PVC, which typically have a shorter lifespan.
Yes, all of our DIY aluminum swing gates are designed to be compatible with gate openers. The reinforced construction and lightweight aluminum make them ideal for use with articulated arm gate motors. You can choose to add an opener when you purchase your gate or install one later. Our complete kits include remote controls and safety sensors for easy installation.
Our wide selection of kit gates includes both swing and sliding options to suit different needs. The ISY and PIO models feature solid panels for complete privacy, while the LEO, NOA, and ZOE models have openwork designs that let light through. The semi-open ZOE model is a great balance between visibility and privacy, giving your outdoor space a modern and welcoming look.
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