Aluminum Fence and Gate Installation
Installing an aluminum fence yourself is easier than you might expect. At GreatFence.com, we specialize in rust-free, USA-made aluminum fence panels and gates designed specifically for DIY installation. Whether you’re handling a full aluminum fence installation or simply installing an aluminum gate, our American-made system ensures you can get the job done with basic tools. This guide covers how to install aluminum fence posts, panels, and entry gates without hiring a contractor — saving time and money.
Before You Begin: Read This First
Successful aluminum fence installation starts with proper planning. Before you set your first post, take a few minutes to review the critical setup steps that will ensure smooth DIY installation. Many of our customers install their entire fencing system in a weekend — but it’s essential to start with accurate measurements, the right post types, and awareness of any underground utilities.
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Measure your yard or project space accurately
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Choose between line, end, corner, blank, or gate posts
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Download the Installation Manual (PDF)
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Plan gate openings and determine if surface mounting is required
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Check with your local HOA and/or your local building codes
Do not dig all your holes in advance; install posts as you build your barrier
Required Posts and Mounting Options
Every aluminum fence installation starts with choosing the correct posts. GreatFence.com offers five types of posts — line, end, corner, gate, and blank — each engineered for specific points in your layout. Whether you’re installing an aluminum fence around your yard, pool, or driveway, selecting the right post type ensures a strong, secure fit and smooth panel connections.
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Line Posts – Used between panels in a straight run
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End Posts – Terminate a run or end a fence line
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Corner Posts – Used at 90-degree corners
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Gate Posts – Heavier wall thickness to support gates
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Blank Posts – No punched holes; used for making hard angles or connecting heavy rackable fence panels, mounts sold separately (see: Aluminum Fence Accessories.
Aluminum fence and gate installation is easy with greatfence.com fencing because our products have been designed with home owners and business owners in mind. Spend no money on costly installation fees. Let greatfence.com help you on your next DIY project. Browse through our aluminum fence and gate installation page to find instructions and other useful tips that can help you set up our aluminum fencing products.
Do-it-Yourself Made Easy
We believe that pre- and post-installation are just as important as the installation process itself. Read our installation manual to have an idea about the tools you’ll need for your project. From string or chalk line and stakes to bungee cords, we list everything you need to prepare.
Save Money!
No need to hire someone if you can do the process yourself. Save money on installation by ordering from greatfence.com. Call us at 888-379-1312 if you still can’t find what you’re looking for. Our customer support and corporate and sales team will be glad to help.
Insert, Set and Forget!
ALUMINUM POST CONFIGURATIONS:
Cemented in Ground – For grass or dirt surfaces
Surface Mounted (Welded Plate) – For concrete or hardscape
Surface Mounted with Cover Plate – Decorative option to hide bolts and fasteners
Always check your local building codes when it comes to your posts. This is not difficult. Ask your HOA or search for your city/town + building codes.
Cementing your posts in ground, most US jurisdictions require a minimum of 2 feet below surface level; 3 feet if you have a frost-line issue. Always check your local building codes. Welded Plates require your Posts to be 3 INCHES longer than the height of your fence panel or gate. Cement and/or anchors are not included with your purchase; purchase locally. If your specific application requires both types, Cemented In Ground and Welded Plate Posts, always start your installation with the products using the welded plate posts as this will “set” the template for your entire barrier. And, welded plate posts have no vertical adjustment flexibility on-site; whereas posts Cemented In Ground do.
STEP-BY-STEP ALUMINUM FENCE INSTALLATION:
Installing an aluminum fence is a straightforward process with GreatFence.com’s pre-punched posts and easy-to-install fence panels. You won’t need welding or specialty tools. This step-by-step guide outlines the key stages for a smooth DIY aluminum fence install.
GreatFence.com aluminum fence systems use custom-routed posts — not pre-punched ones. Each line, end, and corner post is routed based on its function, your chosen fence style, height, and number of horizontal rails. Fence panels attach to these routed posts by inserting the horizontal rails directly into the routed holes on the posts. Then, you set the panel-to-post connection by self tapping stainless steel screws (with powder coated screw-heads) through the post and into the rail.
Unlike lower-grade systems where you set all posts first, our installation process works best when you build your fence section by section. Once your first panel is installed, it becomes your visual guide for the rest of the fence line — greatly reducing guesswork.
1. Mark Fence Line and Gate Locations
Use string lines and marking paint to lay out your full fence run and any gate openings.
2. Set First Post and Panel Together
Begin with your first post and panel in place. Insert the panel rails into the routed holes. Cement the post only after ensuring the panel is level and aligned. Some customers like to use large rubber bands and/or a couple of 2x4s to hold the first panel and post into place until it has been installed.
3. Use First Panel as Visual Template
Once the first panel is secure, use it to set post-to-post spacing and maintain consistent elevation and flow.
4. Continue One Panel at a Time
Insert the next panel into the routed holes of the previous post. Then set the next post accordingly and repeat the process.
5. Trim Panels if Needed
Panels may be trimmed on-site using a metal-cutting blade to accommodate tight spaces or irregular runs.
6. Allow for Concrete Cure Time
If installing posts in-ground with concrete, allow 24–48 hours before applying any pressure or hanging gates.
🛠️ Pro Tip: With custom-routed posts, you’re not locked into rigid panel spacing. Adjust your layout panel by panel for a precision fit — no welding required.
ALUMINUM GATE INSTALLATION:
GreatFence.com aluminum gates are fully welded, made to order, and delivered ready for installation — with no cutting or on-site modification required. Unlike our aluminum fence panels, gates cannot be trimmed. Gate width includes the necessary spacing for both hinges and the gate lock, so the total width refers to the clear opening between gate posts — not the actual leaf size.
Gate posts are not included with the gate purchase and must be ordered separately. You can select the correct posts from our Aluminum Posts section. Both single and double gate installations require two gate posts total — one on each side. Double Gates do not require a post in the middle.
Some customers begin their project by installing the gate first and then working outward with fence panels. This method can simplify alignment and spacing, especially in driveways or narrow access areas.
Gates are non-trimmable — all widths are set at the factory
Gate width = opening + hinge and lock spacing
Order gate posts separately — they are not bundled with your gate purchase
Both single and double gates require 2 gate posts total
Install gates before fencing, if preferred, to anchor alignment
Standard and Truclose hinges allow you to decide the swing trajectory on-site
Use our Adjustable Heavy Duty Gate Hinges for single gates 7 feet wide and wider and double gates 14 feet wide and wider
We also offer Steel Gate Posts which are required for single gates 9 feet wide and wider and for double gates 18 feet wide and wider.
Reminder: All gates include the required spacing for your selected hinge and lock hardware. Do not adjust the opening width — we’ve done the math for you.
🔐 Remember: All GreatFence.com gates are made to order. Double-check your gate width and post configuration before installation.
All Gate Widths include the spacing for the hinges and the spacing for the gate lock.
NOTE: Heavy Duty Gate Hinges require 4″ x 4″ Gate Posts or larger.
Heavy Duty Gate Hinges will not work with smaller posts.
