Definition:  ON-CENTER SPACING:
The total width/distance (of a fence panel AFTER INSERTED into 2 posts) from the center of the first post to the center of the 2nd post.

Important Notes and Tips:

Remember that you always need 2 posts for any Single-Swing Gate OR Double-Swing gate.  Gate posts can ALSO ACT as line posts or corner posts...if PUNCHED (Gate-Punched Post).  You never need to install 2 posts next to each other.  For DECK applications (where you are using Deck Mounts) you most likely will have to cut down the post on-site...but this is very easy to do.  Deck Mounts and Welded Plates can be ordered along with your posts in the POST area of the Online Store.  In regards to Deck Applications, as you move up in height in your fence choice, you MUST use welded plates in lieu of Deck Mounts.

NEVER use 2.5" posts as GATE posts because the thickness (.075) is not optimum for Single-Swing Gates or Double-Swing Gates.  Many clients who MOVE-UP to 2.5" line, corner, end, T, blank posts for their project will then MOVE-UP to 3" x 3" x .125" Gate Posts.  These larger posts really make a visual impact for any fencing project (however, they're NOT necessary for structural purposes unless you're purchasing an INDUSTRIAL grade fence and gate system.)

When you purchase Deck Mounts with posts, you (or the installer) will most likely have to trim down the length of the posts prior to installation.  When you purchase Welded Plates, the plates are welded on to each post during production and prior to shipment.  Welded Plates are automatically set (punched) to leave 2" of clearance AFTER fence panel insertion unless otherwise instructed.  If you would like more/less than 2", just let us know how much clearance you would like on your welded plate-posts. 

If your application requires a combination of welded plate posts with (let's say) in ground posts....make sure you first install the welded plate posts because the clearance is set.  Then, you can follow with your in ground posts and match the clearance so that your entire aluminum fence, gates and horizontal rails....LINE UP.  It is always strongly urged that you read the Installation Manual which can be downloaded off of this website in EASY INSTALLATION.

For very large and wide Commercial and Industrial GATES (Single Gates WIDER than 6' OR Double Gates WIDER than 12') it is strongly recommended to purchase GATE POSTS that are a little bit longer than the minimum recommended post length (mrpl) and, sometimes, even larger (like the 4x4s.).