KATE'S BACKYARD
This job was basically a total backyard makeover. Partly inspired by a new dog in the family, one goal was to make a fully fenced yard. What can't be seen in the photos are the huge laurel hedges that previously bordered the yard. The laurel, while it was nice, occupied a huge amount of yard space, and was planted pretty far off of the property line. We removed the hedge, ground the stumps, built a low retaining wall, brought in several yards of fill and topsoil to level the yard, and constructed cedar gates, fence, and raised garden beds.
Trellis-top fence for climbing vines, and raised beds for garden veggies.
The alley behind this fence line allows great access for garden supplies. Because the yard is actually elevated above the level of the alley, a six-foot fence provides
plenty of privacy.
Joinery detail.
Because of the extra width (and weight) of this 38" gate, I wanted to build it extra strong. Concealed pocket screw joinery and a half-lap joint (the diagonal brace is continuous) add significant strength. I'm confidant the gate will never sag. Beefy diagonal braces are built into the fence on the ally side to hold the post plumb.
