gate post splitting/cracking

[Kassee]

I have large wooden gates in my sideway, and one of the gate posts is beginning to crack (vertically). Is there anything I could put round the gate post to support it and hold it together - like a tie - I am sure there must be - but not sure what they would be called or where I can buy them. Thanks

[sandyRoe]

What about screwing a rectangular piece of metal over the crack? Might keep it from getting any worse.

[RATTER15]

Just drill a hole right through and bolt it or get a piece of 1" by1/8th steel bar and just wrap around it and bolt the ends to pull it together tight.

No problem.

[RATTER15]

of course, second method isnt quite so easy if the post is not round but can still be done.

[RATTER15]

^^WHAT?

[heathfield]

^^Eh?

[Kassee]

I dont know what is causing it. The other post isn't splitting. Its a square post and 6 foot high, and large wooden gates. The post is splitting in the middle on one side only (front) and almost straight down the middle. It is holding the gate that we open the most - the other gate is rarely opened.

I was hoping there would be some strong ties (like that are on cargo containers) that could be put round the post at intervals to hold it together and give it support. Thanks

[Kassee]

No the gate hinges are attached to the back of the post, and the split is on the front. The gate hinges dont go right through the post and they are attached - not in the middle - but nearer the gate side of the post - if you see what I mean. Whereas the split is the front of the post and in the middle of it.

The posts and gates were only put up about 18 months/2 years ago. Thanks for your help.

[tufty7]

I had something similar some years ago , I measured the post , contacted a local fabricator and he made me some square collars with two holes in each side , these were then placed over the post and screwed into place , I also did the same on the opposite side to make them match up, (you could also do it with bracing straps for cheapness)

the split never got any worse as it was the wood just naturally doing what wood does......

[RATTER15]

If you were local to me, I would knock these straps up for you in an hour, very simple. any metal fabricator would make them easily or any good DIY guy with a little experience in working with metal.

[Kassee]

Thank you for your answers - I will try what you suggest - not so worried about it now - thanks