How to block gap above side gate?

[bigtony386]

I’m looking for an attractive way to block the wide but short gap above our side gate. The goal is to stop any possible intruders from climbing over, but I’d like it to look neat and not bulky. Privacy isn’t important - in fact, I’d prefer it to remain as open and see-through as possible.

The gap is approximately 450-500 mm high and 2800 mm wide, so it just needs to be covered enough to discourage anyone from trying to squeeze through. Tricky part is, the gate opens in the middle and has two solid posts, that could potentially be used as anchor points.

[MitchellMc]

Welcome to the Bunnings Workshop community @bigtony386. It's wonderful to have you join us, and many thanks for your question about covering a gap.

There are likely a number of ways to prevent access through the gap. One of the most straightforward would be to construct a simple 70 x 35mm timber frame and install it into the gap, fixed to the roof beam, top of the steel posts and the timber post on the right. This creates a solid structure that bridges over the top of the gate. I've created a rendering below to illustrate. Using this frame, you could clad it with Merbau decking similar to the gate and fence, or even install a sheet of clear polycarbonate over the frame to block passage but keep it more open and airy. Mesh is also an option, as well as various types of screening products. The timber frame makes a great and solid backing for a range of finishes.

Let me mention @TedBear, @Dave-1 and @Jewelleryrescue to see if they have any thoughts.

Please let me know if you have any questions.

Mitchell
 

[bigtony386]

Fantastic Idea, thank you Mitchell

[Dave-1]

Good Afternoon @bigtony386 

I have a similar idea tho was thinkiing of a similar frame and some vertical slats of Merbau timber with wide-ish gaps between them. 

So the same 35 * 70mm timber frame connecting the roof to the top of the fence. Then vertical slats spaced one slat, empty slat then one slat across the length. You could also go for a shortened length that can open seperatly to the gate that sits above the gate in case you need to have large items to come through. Kind of like an old fashined half door situation.

Dave

[bigtony386]

Thank you @Dave-1 !

> You could also go for a shortened length that can open seperatly to the gate that sits above the gate in case you need to have large items to come through. Kind of like an old fashined half door situation.

Yes, I had thought about that situation and how to tackle getting big items through if needed. I googled photos of half doors, but I'm struggling to visualise how that would work above the gate. Where are you thinking the hinge would be attached? and would it bare the weight of half the timber frame?

[Dave-1]

Good Afternoon @bigtony386 

I would have the top third of the gate attach to the vertical post next to the gate. I wuld have it open so the door ends up under the carport area, sotha it still allows for tall items to come through the gate and then right (of the photographer) if needed. I would install a latch in the garage to hold the top open when needed. 

I was thinking of hinges like Pinnacle 300mm Zinc Plated Tee Hinge - 2 Pack  to hold it. Plus a solid sliding bolt across to the fixed new frame to provide that protection you want.

Dave

[EricL]

Hi @bigtony386 

Just to add to @Dave-1's suggestion, I propose using lightweight materials for the gate so that the load on the gate fixings will not be so heavy.

Eric