A garden gate that has swung freely for months can gradually start to stick, sag or squeak as dirt and moisture work their way into the hinges over time. This is rarely a sign of anything seriously wrong, and more often than not, a simple clean and a little oil is all that is needed to have the gate working smoothly again. Left unattended for too long, however, stiff hinges can wear unevenly and become harder to fix later on.
A simple clean and oil
Begin by brushing away any visible dirt, cobwebs or flaking rust from around the hinge with a stiff brush, working into the gaps where grime tends to build up unnoticed. A cloth dampened with a little water can help lift more stubborn dirt, though the hinge should be dried thoroughly afterwards, since trapped moisture is one of the main causes of rust in the first place. Take the opportunity to check the screws or bolts holding the hinge in place, tightening anything that has worked loose over time.
Once clean and dry, a few drops of general household oil worked into the hinge pin usually restores smooth movement almost immediately. Open and close the gate a few times after oiling, so the oil can work its way properly into the moving parts rather than sitting only on the surface. Wipe away any excess oil afterwards, as it can otherwise attract dust and dirt that build up again more quickly than before.
If a hinge shows more serious rust or has become stiff despite cleaning and oiling, a wire brush can help remove the worst of it before oil is applied, restoring much of the hinge's original movement. Badly rusted screws sometimes need replacing altogether, particularly if they have begun to weaken the fixing itself.
A gate that swings freely and closes properly is more than just a small convenience, since it also keeps pets and children safely within the garden. A short check of the hinges every so often, followed by a clean and a little oil where needed, keeps the whole gate working well for years.
