| Scenario | Size | Frame | Infill | Hinges | Estimated Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Light timber slats | 1200x1500 mm | 40x40x2 steel, 1V + 1H | Pine slats 70x18 mm, 12 mm gap | 2 | ~ 33 kg (73 lb) |
| Aluminum frame, mesh | 1000x1200 mm | 35x35x2 aluminum, 0V + 1H | Mesh 2.0 kg/m^2 | 2 | ~ 9 kg (20 lb) |
| Solid panel privacy | 1500x1800 mm | 50x50x3 steel, 2V + 1H | Composite panel 18 mm | 3 | ~ 73 kg (161 lb) |
The frame is treated as a hollow rectangular tube. The metal volume equals total tube length times cross-sectional area.
- A = (W*H) - ((W-2t)*(H-2t))
- L = 2(Wg + Hg) + Nv*Hg + Nh*Wg + Ldiag
- Mass_frame = L * A * rho_frame
Infill mass depends on the selected style. Solid panels use area times thickness. Slats use a counted set of boards. Mesh uses area times weight per area.
- Mass_solid = (Wg*Hg*thk) * rho_infill * moisture
- Count ~= floor((span + gap) / (slat + gap))
- Mass_mesh = (Wg*Hg) * mesh_wpa
Total weight is the sum of frame, infill, and hardware. Per-hinge load is total divided by hinge count, then multiplied by a safety factor for a minimum suggested hinge rating.
- Pick your unit system, then enter gate width and height.
- Enter your frame profile size and wall thickness.
- Add internal members and an optional diagonal brace.
- Choose an infill type, then fill the related options.
- Enter hinge count, hardware weights, and safety factor.
- Press calculate, then download CSV or PDF if needed.
Weight drivers in garden gates
Gate weight is controlled by material density, member length, and infill coverage. A steel tube frame near 7850 kg/m3 can weigh about three times an equivalent aluminum frame near 2700 kg/m3. Adding internal rails, stiles, or a diagonal brace increases tube length, so weight rises linearly. Infill choices change weight quickly because they scale with gate area.
Frame profile and tube wall effects
The calculator models a hollow rectangular tube. Cross sectional area equals outer area minus inner void area, so wall thickness has strong influence. For a 40×40 tube, increasing wall thickness from 2 mm to 3 mm raises area by roughly 50%, which raises frame mass by the same ratio. Larger profiles improve stiffness and reduce sag risk, but they add mass that hinges carry.
Comparing slats, solid panels, and mesh
Slats estimate volume using slat width, thickness, length, and a count derived from the gap pitch. This fits picket style gates where airflow matters. Solid panels use area times thickness, so privacy boards can become the dominant load, especially when wet timber is considered via the moisture factor. Mesh uses weight per area, matching how wire products are specified.
Hardware, hinge loading, and safety factor
Hardware weight is small but should be counted for planning. The calculator divides total weight by hinge count to estimate per hinge load, then multiplies by a safety factor to suggest a minimum hinge rating. A factor of 1.3 to 2.0 is common for outdoor gates to cover dynamic loads, wind, and long term wear in posts and fasteners.
Using results for design and purchasing
Use the breakdown to test alternatives: swap frame material, reduce profile size, change slat spacing, or choose mesh for a lighter leaf. Compare totals in kg and lb and keep the per hinge recommendation below the hinge datasheet rating. Confirm final weight with a scale before installation, then adjust hinge selection, post size, and anchoring accordingly for smoother swing and longer service.
FAQs
How accurate is the estimate?
It is a planning estimate based on typical densities and simple geometry. Weld beads, coatings, moisture, and hardware variation can change final mass. Weigh the finished gate for confirmation before choosing hinges and posts.
Should I use metric or imperial units?
Use whichever matches your measurements. The calculator converts internally to meters and kilograms, then reports both kilograms and pounds. Keep densities consistent with the selected density unit for reliable results.
What safety factor should I choose?
For most outdoor garden gates, 1.3–2.0 is practical. Higher values help with wind loading, slamming, and long term wear. If your gate is automated or heavy, consider the upper end and consult hinge ratings.
How do slat gaps affect weight?
Gaps reduce the number of slats and total timber volume. Larger gaps can lower weight noticeably while improving airflow. If you change gap size, recheck slat count and ensure spacing still meets your privacy and safety needs.
Why include a moisture factor?
Timber and some composites gain mass when wet or freshly treated. A moisture factor lets you add a realistic allowance, helping avoid undersized hinges. For dry, seasoned wood use 1.00; increase for damp conditions.
Can I download results for records?
Yes. After a successful calculation, use the CSV or PDF buttons to download the latest result stored in your session. The export includes inputs, totals, and hinge guidance for quick sharing and documentation.