How to fasten a garden gate post to a wooden log retaining wall to improve its rigidity?

[akoong]

I have just installed a new aluminum slats gate in the garden. One gate post is fastened to the brick wall and the other is fasten with a base plate to the concrete path against the wooden log retaining wall.

I find that the post fastened with the base plate is not sufficiently rigid in spite of tightening the bolts on the base plates to prevent movement which I think will get worst over time.

I am thinking of drilling into the aluminum post and fastening the post to the wooden log retaining wall. My questions are:

1) Would that improve the rigidity of the post?

2) What fasteners should I use?

3) The wooden log retaining wall is leaning inwards and the top of the wall is 35mm away from the post. What is the best way to fasten the post to this top log position.

[MitchellMc]

Hi @akoong,

I'd suggest using landscape screws to fastest the post to the wall. I'd probably pop one at the bottom in the fourth log up from the bottom and then one in the top log. For the top log, you'll need to stack some shims to fill the gap. Predrill them and screw through them with the landscaping screw.

Please let me know if you have any questions.

Mitchell

[akoong]

Hi Mitchell,

Thanks for your advice below. It is much appreciated. I think the "landscape screw" link is pointing to something else. Please check and update.

Regards

Alan

[MitchellMc]

No problems @akoong. 

The link should now be fixed.

Mitchell

[akoong]

Hi Mitchell,

I followed your advice using the landscape screws and the shims. Worked like a charm and no more lateral movement. 😊

Many thanks again.

Regards

Alan

[MitchellMc]

Love your work, Alan (@akoong)!

Many thanks for the update.

Mitchell