The short answer

Trace the gate’s load path from the latch side to the hinge post and footing. A sagging gate is not always a hinge adjustment. The frame can be out of square, the post can lean, the brace can fail, or a wet or weak footing can allow movement. Identify the moving component before replacing hardware.

Separate the symptoms

Symptom Possible area What to inspect
Hinge leaf shifts Hardware or fastener Screw holes, split wood, and plate contact.
Post leans Post or footing Movement with the gate supported.
Gate twists Frame or brace Diagonal measurement and brace condition.
Latch misses Overall alignment Hinge side, post, and ground movement.
Gate drags after rain Ground or footing Soil, drainage, and clearance at the bottom.

Do not stand under a heavy gate, dig near utilities, or force a latch with a pry bar. Photograph the closed and open gaps, measure the diagonal if safe, and note whether the symptom changes seasonally.

Compare repair scopes

Separate hinge replacement, frame rebuilding, post replacement, footing work, latch adjustment, and gate-weight reduction. A diagonal cable may steady a square frame, but it cannot restore a rotten post. A new hinge cannot correct a footing that has shifted.

Practical decision notes

The key question for this topic is whether the latch side drops while hinges or the post move. Before making a change, focus on measuring diagonals, post plumb, hinge fasteners, gate weight, and ground movement. Record the starting condition with a photo, measurement, weather note, and the symptom that needs explaining. Compare more than one location when possible, follow the manufacturer or owner manual, and separate observations from assumptions. Choose a next step that produces evidence or improves safety rather than hiding the symptom. Stop at concealed water, combustion, energized wiring, structural movement, or unsafe access.

Limits

This guide does not establish property responsibility, pool-barrier compliance, or structural adequacy. A gate that can fall or block a safety boundary needs professional attention.