The first two gates I built did not get cemented support posts. The main garden entrance gate didn't budge. The supporting posts for the large back gate shifted a bit, but not enough that I have had to fix them.
Given that this new gate is going to have a roof, I didn't want to take a chance, so cement it was. I also decided to brace the posts in place with temporary supports that I screwed in. This ensured that the posts were exactly where I wanted them in relation to the main posts and that they wouldn't budge while I poured the cement. Doing this alone was tough, especially since the cement I used was quick setting. I had to watch my timing and make sure everything was in place before I started, hence the temporary support posts.
I also installed the crosspiece to add some stability to the main posts - they are only bolted to brackets and have been moving a bit. Once everything was all secure, I pored the cement.
Later, I attached the cross supports with bolts, further securing the structure. I then removed the temporary cross supports.
It took almost the full day to get all this done. Its secure, but sort of looks odd, like I am building a giant chair. Doesn't really look like a gate at this point. Honestly, I am worried. The proportions seem off. I am using formulas I obtained from the Journal of Japanese Gardening, but I might be messing it up. For instance, I know that I extended the support posts too far from the main posts, about twice the distance I should have. Its how I did my previous gates, and I am worried about the main posts only being bolted down. I am hoping the wider span will help support the main posts better by spreading out the support. I am no engineer, so I could be wrong. Only time will tell. It may not look authentic when done, but in the end it will either work or I will have a very goofy looking gate.
I'm o.k with goofy.
