erick@spiewakgroup.com
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Gate hinge size depends on gate weight, gate width, material, and hinge type. There’s no single “correct” size—hinges must be large enough to carry the load, prevent sagging, and withstand outdoor use.
Below is a practical sizing guide used by installers.
Hinges must support the gate’s total weight with a safety margin.
Rule of thumb
Use at least 2 hinges
Each hinge should be rated for 50–70% of the total gate weight
Example:
Gate weight: 60 kg
Two hinges → each hinge rated ≥40 kg
Heavier gates may require 3 hinges.
Wider gates create more leverage and need longer hinges.
| Gate Width | Recommended Hinge Length |
|---|---|
| Up to 900 mm (3 ft) | 300–400 mm (12–16 in) |
| 900–1200 mm (3–4 ft) | 400–450 mm (16–18 in) |
| 1200–1500 mm (4–5 ft) | 450–600 mm (18–24 in) |
| Over 1500 mm (5 ft) | 600 mm+ (24 in+) or adjustable hinges |
Longer hinges spread the load across more of the gate.
Best for wooden gates
Size is based on strap length
Strap should cover ⅓ to ½ of the gate width
Ideal for heavy or sag-prone gates
Allow alignment correction over time
Size by weight rating, not just length
Suitable only for light, narrow gates
Must be heavy-duty and outdoor-rated
| Gate Material | Hinge Size Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Softwood | Larger hinges to prevent sag |
| Hardwood | Strong pin + longer hinge |
| Steel | Heavy-duty hinges, larger pin |
| Aluminum | Oversize hinges with good bearings |
Outdoor exposure increases stress—bigger is safer.
The hinge pin carries the load.
Light gates: 10–12 mm pin
Medium gates: 12–16 mm pin
Heavy gates: 16 mm+ pin
A longer hinge with a thin pin can still fail.
| Gate Height | Hinges Needed |
|---|---|
| Up to 1200 mm | 2 hinges |
| 1200–1800 mm | 3 hinges |
| Over 1800 mm | 3+ hinges |
The top hinge carries the most load.
Choosing hinge size by appearance only
Ignoring gate weight
Using Door Hinges instead of gate hinges
Undersizing pin diameter
Using too few hinges
If you’re unsure:
Choose longer hinges
Choose higher weight ratings
Use adjustable hinges for outdoor wooden gates
Oversizing hinges is far safer than undersizing.
Gate hinges should be sized based on:
Gate weight
Gate width
Material
Hinge type
Pin diameter
For most residential gates, 300–450 mm heavy-duty strap or T hinges are appropriate, while larger or heavier gates need 600 mm+ or adjustable hinges.
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