All You Handy Folks Out There...A DIY Question, Need ASAP

spring loaded baby gates are the way to go


or you could just chain that kid of yours down. Sheesh

What about big U bolts?

I suppose an electric fence is out of the question...



(they learn real quick )

Spring loaded won't work as there is no where to base the one side. The banister being round and all.

And a dog gate and baby gate are basically the same thing and the same problem arises.

However.....

I worked and worked and 2 hours later, presto! I had the gate up. I got 2 4ft 1x8s and drilled holes in the top and bottom. Then I got 6 inch carriage bolts (with washers) and wing nuts so that they can be tightened down periodically and easily. Sammiched the banister, dilled the hardware for the gate in and there she be.

In other words, it worked. And for about $10. And it doesn't look as bad as I originally thought it would.

Thanks all!!!

Wingnuts are a safety hazard; littlie can trip and bang head.

Actually, any nuts/bolts are a safety hazard unless they're countersunk. (See how playground equipment is made.)

Sorry to be so late with contrary advice....

Edit: And make sure you trim the ends of the bolts, if any are exposed.

Edit Edit: I think your idea of zip ties is pretty good, actually. As long as you use four or five of the heavy-duty ones.

Edit Edit Edit: That's how some friends did it, and it works great.

I totally agree with Drewdad on this. Countersunk nuts are the safe way.

I would also sand the edges of the boards rounded to prevent possible injury from the sharp corners.

You didn't indicate whether your post was stained or painted. if it is painted you could easily fill the holes and paint again after you no longer need the gate.

We'll be getting covers for the bolt ends and hacking off the stuff hanging out.