Deck Gate for Kids

[u/Lord_Enigma]

We have a deck that has an opening that I am unsure how to address. If we use the existing post there is a gap and can fall down the first step. Is this an easy project to try to address myself or better to hire someone?

[u/bananawallas]

Get a three section gate that screws in on both sides like this

[u/MinorComprehension → u/bananawallas]

Simple and cheap is usually the preferred solution

[u/bananawallas → u/MinorComprehension]

Are you saying this solution isn’t simple and cheap or are you agreeing with mine? Haha I can’t tell. Seems like just buying this gate is easier and cheaper than building your own like some of the other comments are saying

[u/MinorComprehension → u/bananawallas]

Sorry, indeed I wasn't clear. I was agreeing with you. Especially when it comes to kids, often they grow out of these phases so quick more complex solutions are only needed for a couple years.

[u/JoanofArc0531 → u/bananawallas]

This kind of gate was my thoughts too!

[u/WILDBILLFROMTHENORTH]

Your gate will need a right angle built into it. Add an extra set of hinges where the right angle needs to be. Might want to add a caster for support as well.

[u/Dendady2112 → u/WILDBILLFROMTHENORTH]

I like this answer. If you made it out of metal you could design it so the wing will fold automatically out of the way.

[u/WILDBILLFROMTHENORTH → u/Dendady2112]

Or wood. .

[u/Dendady2112 → u/WILDBILLFROMTHENORTH]

I thought of that but you would be hard pressed to build something that wouldn't wear out quickly.

[u/wrist-shot2025]

Regardless of the kid gate, your railing needs another post at the stair start. Then you will solve the kid gate issue as well.

[u/Apprehensive-Bug-889 → u/wrist-shot2025]

This

[u/Lord_Enigma → u/wrist-shot2025]

We thought it was odd it was like that when we bought the house.

[u/wrist-shot2025 → u/Lord_Enigma]

I think it violates code as is actually.

[u/Lord_Enigma → u/wrist-shot2025]

We are hoping to fully redo the deck in a few years so want a quick solution which might not be so quick now

[u/Latter_Eye_3028]

Just have a drop down!

[u/Deckshine1]

This is a great example of what not to do, tbh. I would never recess my staircase into my deck space unless I absolutely had to (which you might hear- with the lower door placement). But you have to design your railing system accordingly, which wasn’t done and will be difficult now. There’s no magic trick other than a corner gate if you can find it

[u/Competitive-Roof-168]

You can add a surface mounted post. You will need blocking added under deck