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Measuring guide

Tips and Key Steps for Installing a Gate in Your Yard

Looking to add 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, select the right style (swing or sliding), and avoid common mistakes.

1. Measuring the Width Between Posts

photo example measuring width between posts

Measure the inside distance between the two posts at three different heights:

A
Top
B
Middle
C
Bottom

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 3/8", check that your posts are plumb before installing. Example: If you get 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 Cap

Next, measure the total height from the finished ground up to the underside of the post cap (or pillar cover).

  • • Take this measurement on both sides, since the ground may slope slightly.
  • • The final gate height should be 2" to 4" less than the available height to allow clearance for hinges and opening.

Make sure the rack and gate opener can be installed without interfering with the gate height.

photo example measuring height from ground to under post cap

3. Special Case: If You Don't Have Posts Yet

If you're building your entryway from scratch:

  • • Allow for a total gap = gate opening + 3" to 4" (for hinges and hardware),
  • • Position your posts based on the gate's swing direction (inward or outward),

4. Check That the Ground Is Level

The ground should be flat and level across the entire gate width.
If there's a slope:

  • • You can open the gate outward (if local codes allow),
  • • Or choose a custom gate with adjustable hinges or an asymmetrical swing (one leaf narrower than the other).

Pro tip:
Use a spirit level or laser level to spot any height differences.
A slope greater than 3/4" per 3 feet can cause issues when opening the gate.

In Summary:

Measure the width between your posts at three heights (top, middle, bottom).
Note the available height from the ground to the post cap, leaving 2" to 4" clearance.
Check that the ground is level and posts are plumb before installing.
Consider automation when measuring to avoid surprises during installation.
Choose a swing gate for wide, straight entries, or a sliding gate for tighter spaces or sloped ground.

If you're unsure, contact a professional for an on-site measurement—it's the best way to ensure a perfect fit.

A question about this product?

LEO Aluminum Swing Gate Kit

REF PORTLEO30001200G

Choose a LEO aluminum swing gate kit for a timeless look. This model secures your yard without fully closing it off. Its openwork design lets in natural light, creating a more open and modern outdoor space. Available in white, black, green, red, brown, or anthracite gray, this DIY gate kit is both practical and stylish.

Color: Gray 7016
Height: 4 ft
Width: 3 ft

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The LEO aluminum gate kit is designed to secure and define your property entrance.
This model features two manually operated swing panels.

Did you know? Aluminum is one of the lightest materials available, making the gate easy to open—even without a gate opener. Maintenance is minimal, so you can enjoy long-lasting performance with very little upkeep.

The LEO aluminum gate kit is delivered as a DIY assembly kit. This format helps lower shipping and installation costs while maintaining high manufacturing standards. Our step-by-step installation guides make setup straightforward, even if you have limited experience.

This kit includes

x1
Lock and hardware
x6
Post caps
x1
Center stop
x1
Meeting seal
x1
Stainless steel strike plate
x4
Top and bottom hinges

Benefits of the LEO aluminum swing gate kit

  • Great value: Lower costs thanks to the kit format
  • Durability: Made in France for premium quality
  • Easy assembly: Straightforward installation, even for beginners

Additional information

  • Qualicoat and Qualimarine certified: Provides protection against rust and corrosion
  • Manufactured in Gironde, Southwest France – 5-year warranty (hardware and accessories: 1 year)

Installing the LEO aluminum swing gate kit

The gate's two panels can be opened manually to the left or right—it's reversible for flexible installation. Our detailed instructions guide you through each step. For best results, we recommend installation by two people.

This gate is designed for installation between posts spaced:
– 3000 mm to 3050 mm for the 3000 mm model,
– 3500 mm to 3550 mm for the 3500 mm model.

Note: The listed height refers to the total installed height, measured from the ground up.

Available colours

Green RAL 6005

Gray 7016

Black RAL 9005

White 9010

Brown 1247

Red RAL 3004

PORTLEO30001200G

Data sheet

Width
3 ft 11 in or 11 ft 6 in
Weight
40
Thickness
2 mm
Section Size
1000 × 150 × 1500 mm / L.3000 (entre piliers) X H.1200 mm, L.3500 (entre piliers) X H.1200 mm
Post
102 x 38 mm
Opening Direction
102 x 30 mm
Material
Aluminum
Origin
France
Warranty
Portail : 5 ans / Accessoires : 1 an
What are the benefits of a gate kit? +

The LEO gate kit provides reliable security with its openwork design, allowing light through while clearly marking your property line. Its lightweight aluminum construction makes manual operation easy and allows for future automation if needed. Delivered as a kit, it helps lower shipping and installation costs, offers an attractive price, requires minimal maintenance, and can be cleaned easily with soapy water.

How do I assemble a gate kit? +

Assembling a gate kit is straightforward when you follow the detailed instructions included with each product. With two people and basic tools like a drill and wrenches, installation typically takes between 3 and 5 hours. Our aluminum gates come with all the necessary hardware and fasteners, making the process manageable even for those new to DIY projects.

What is the required distance between posts? +

Our gate kits are designed to fit various opening widths depending on the model. For a 3000 mm gate, the distance between posts should be between 3000 and 3050 mm. For a 3500 mm model, the posts should be spaced between 3500 and 3550 mm apart. This 50 mm tolerance allows for easier adjustment during installation.

How should I maintain aluminum? +

Aluminum requires minimal maintenance to keep its original appearance. Simply clean it once or twice a year with warm water and mild soap, depending on your environment. Use a non-abrasive sponge, rinse with clean water, and dry with a microfiber cloth. Avoid harsh chemicals and pressure washers, as these can damage the powder coating on your aluminum gate.

Can this gate be motorized later? +

Yes, this gate kit is designed to be motorized in the future thanks to its reinforced rail. Our sliding and swing gates are compatible with a range of gate opener systems available in our product selection. This setup allows you to add an automatic gate opener whenever you need it.

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