Fence Gate Planning in Felida, WA: Measure the Opening and Swing
A gate-specific checklist for clear width, grade, latch, access and post stability before requesting a Felida fence quote.
Illustration · not a completed project photoSource-reviewed homeowner guide
Quick takeaways
- ✓Measure clear passage, not only gate panel width.
- ✓Check ground clearance along the full swing.
- ✓Price weak posts separately from hardware.
- ✓Test the gate and latch at handoff.
Measure what must pass through the opening
A gate panel’s advertised width is not the usable opening between posts. Measure the clear passage with the existing gate fully open, then list what needs to pass: a person, mower, bins or a vehicle. Take a photo from both sides and note any path, step, planting or drainage feature that narrows approach. A fence line can look generous while the working passage is too tight.
For a Felida request, distinguish a pedestrian gate from a vehicle gate and identify whether the job replaces hardware, a leaf, the posts or a whole fence section. Include the actual jobsite address privately. Do not assume every parcel has a slope; if yours does, show the high and low points along the gate’s travel.
Trace the swing before ordering hardware
Mark the preferred swing direction and photograph the arc in the open position. Check ground clearance through that arc, not just when the gate is shut. A slope, gravel buildup or seasonal ground movement may cause dragging. Ask the installer to explain hinge placement, latch reach, stop position and how the gate remains secure when closed. A heavier panel may require different posts rather than stronger hinges alone.
If the gate is used for access to equipment or emergency egress, tell the provider that purpose before selecting width and latch. Do not invent a universal dimension from a neighbor’s gate. Any applicable access, HOA or permit requirement should be checked for the exact property and proposed use. Price a repair and a new gate separately when the post condition is uncertain.
- •Clear width measured with gate fully open
- •Equipment and users listed
- •Swing arc and grade photographed
- •Posts, hinges and latch assessed together
- •Repair and replacement scopes separated
Include the site work in the quote
A complete scope includes post repair or replacement, footing work, gate frame and infill, hinges, latch, finish, demolition, disposal and final adjustment. Ask how access for materials and protection of paths or planting is handled. If a new post hole is needed, request a Washington 811 utility locate and identify private irrigation or lighting lines separately before digging.
Verify the contractor through Washington L&I. At handoff, operate the gate through its full arc, check the latch and ground clearance, and save the hardware information. KABLAY can receive the description and check Felida availability; this planning guide does not guarantee a crew, completion date or particular gate design.
Plan the next step
Continue with a relevant local service, named request or supporting guide.
Homeowner questions
Is gate width the same as usable opening?+
No. Posts, hinges and the open position affect clear passage. Measure the opening with the gate fully open.
Will new hinges fix a dragging gate?+
Not necessarily. A loose post, distorted frame or ground clearance problem may also need work.
Do I need an 811 locate for a latch replacement?+
A hardware-only repair may not involve digging. Request a locate before any new post holes or other excavation.
Primary sources
Official requirements can change. Confirm the current rule for your address and project with the named authority.
