Questions & answers
Sizing, materials, finishing, hardware and delivery.
Can I order a custom size or shape?
No, and it isn't for lack of ability. We could build almost any size or shape. The problem is getting it to you. At the shipping rates available to a small business, sending one oversized custom gate to one customer costs almost as much as the gate itself. So we build our four sizes in batches and ship them in bulk to Amazon's US warehouses. Amazon stores them and delivers them through its own network for a fraction of what a single shipment would cost, and that saving goes to you. The bottom rail is extra-wide, so any of our gates can be shortened by up to 2" at the bottom if you need it.
Which size do I need?
Measure the opening between your posts at the top and at the bottom, and choose the gate that leaves 1/2" to 3/4" of clearance: a 38" gate fits a 38 1/2" to 38 3/4" opening, a 40" gate a 40 1/2" to 40 3/4" opening, a 42" gate a 42 1/2" to 42 3/4" opening, and a 44" gate a 44 1/2" to 44 3/4" opening.
Can I cut it to fit?
Only at the bottom. You can shorten the gate by up to 2" at the bottom, where the rail is extra-wide. Never trim the sides.
What is the gate made of?
Bamboo plywood. Each 12 mm panel has three cross-laminated layers, and three panels are laminated together to make a gate 1 7/16" (36 mm) thick. Bamboo is a grass that regrows from its roots and is ready to harvest again in three years or more.
Will it sag?
No. The gate is laminated into one solid piece with no joints to loosen, so there is nothing that can rack or sag. Hang it on three sturdy hinges and solid posts.
How does it compare with a cedar gate?
A cedar gate is boards held by about six joints and grooves that trap water, with exposed end grain. Ours is one laminated piece with no grooves under the rails and every edge sealed. Bamboo also has up to 2.8 times the bending strength of cedar and more than 8 times its hardness. The videos on the How It's Built page show the difference.
Does the back look the same as the front?
Yes. The front and back frames are identical, so the gate looks finished from both sides.
Does it come finished?
No. It ships unfinished and sanded, so you can stain, oil or paint it to suit your fence and house. A finishing and care guide comes with every gate.
Should I stain or paint it?
Either works. Stain or oil shows off the bamboo grain; paint gives the most weather protection and any colour you like. Give the top edge an extra coat.
Are hinges and a latch included?
No. Hardware is a personal choice, so we leave it to you. Use three hinges with straps no wider than the 5 1/2" stile.
Is it thick enough for a standard door handle or lockset?
Yes. At 1 7/16" thick, the gate fits standard gate and door hardware, including locksets, handles and latches.
How high should it hang?
Leave at least 2" between the bottom of the gate and the ground, and keep that gap clear of soil and debris.
How heavy is it?
61.1 lb (38"), 65.7 lb (40"), 68.3 lb (42") or 70.8 lb (44"). Two people are recommended for installation.
How much does it cost?
$799 (38"), $829 (40"), $859 (42") or $889 (44"), with free shipping to the continental US.
Why do you sell on Amazon and Etsy instead of this website?
Because it protects you. Amazon and Etsy both enforce their own buyer protection, your payment details stay with them rather than with us, and we never add you to a mailing list. Amazon also stores and delivers our gates for far less than we could ship them ourselves.
What if it isn't what I expected?
You can return it within 30 days. Returns are handled through Amazon or Etsy under their return policies.
Where do you ship, and what does it cost?
Shipping is free to anywhere in the continental US on both Amazon and Etsy.
Can I ask a question before I buy?
Yes. Email info@miraclewoodworks.com, call or text 1-778-872-4072, or message us on Etsy.