TACKLING COMMON INSTALLATION CHALLENGES WITH BABY GATES
CRUCIAL INSTALLATION DISCLAIMER
These installations require a certain degree of expertise; attempting this task without the assistance of a professional may lead to risks and unforeseen expenses.
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The scenarios outlined below highlight various challenges I have encountered during installations, which may resonate with your own experiences and offer valuable solutions.
INSTALLATION CHALLENGE 1: DEALING WITH UNEVEN SURFACES
RESOLVING THE ISSUE OF UNEVEN SURFACES
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- Measure the widest point at the top to determine the size required for the gate and any necessary extensions. (CLICK HERE FOR MEASURING GUIDELINES).
- Once you have the gates/extensions, use an angle grinder fitted with a metal/aluminium disc to accurately cut the gate, following the measurements indicated in the reference images above.
- Remove the plastic component from the section you plan to cut and reinsert it into the cut area of the gate to ensure proper fitting of the tension knob.
- This process will become clearer once you have the gate in your possession.
INSTALLATION CHALLENGE 2: FIXING A GATE ON AN ANGLED WALL
ADDRESSING THE ISSUE OF INSTALLING ON AN ANGLED WALL
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- Ensure the gate/extensions are ready for installation.
- Use Pratley Putty Quickset to fill any gaps and create a level surface on the wall.
- Allow the Putty to fully cure BEFORE tightening the tension knobs to securely fix the gate using pressure.
- Do not rely on the gate for safety until all steps are completed and the gate has been tested for stability.
INSTALLATION CHALLENGE 3: INSTALLING BABY GATES OUTDOORS
OVERCOMING THE CHALLENGE OF OUTDOOR INSTALLATION OF BABY GATES
Installing baby gates outdoors might seem like a quick and economical solution, however, it may void the warranty on these gates.
I recommend that outdoor installations of baby gates be regarded purely as temporary and cost-effective solutions. This may risk invalidating your warranty on the gates.
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- Baby gates are specifically designed for indoor use and are not suitable for outdoor conditions due to potential exposure to harsh weather elements.
- This limitation is explicitly stated in the warranty documentation provided with the product.
- Failure to comply with warranty conditions will lead to the loss of warranty coverage.
For a durable solution, consider hiring a contractor who specialises in security or latch gates. While this may incur higher expenses, it is the most reliable approach.
PREPARING THE BABY GATE AND EXTENSIONS FOR OUTDOOR USE:
Disclaimer: None of these measures can ensure complete rust protection; however, they aim to extend the lifespan of the gate under South African climatic conditions.
Regular treatment every 1-2 months can significantly decrease the risk of rust.
To minimise rust and moisture build-up, adhere to these guidelines:
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- Before installation, treat the baby gate, extensions, and mounting kit, ensuring to cover all surface areas, particularly at the base.
- Drill holes at the bottom of the gate using an 8mm steel drill bit. This will facilitate water drainage and prevent rust from accumulating inside the hollow gate, where moisture can gather at joints, connectors, and tension knobs. The holes will enable ventilation to avert moisture build-up.
- Apply a light coat of Rustoleum Painters Touch 2X Ultra Cover – Satin Clear 340g, available at takealot.com, to the baby gate, extensions, and mounting kit.
- Allow to dry completely (approximately 2 hours), then apply a second coat.
For existing rust:
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- Spray the affected areas with Rust-Oleum Rust Reformer 291g, following the product guidelines.
- Refer to the product description on takealot.com; you may need to obtain mineral spirits to clean any overspray on non-rusted areas.
- The rust reformer will convert rust to a black substance, which should then be coated with Rust-Oleum Stops Rust Enamel Gloss White 340g, available at takealot.com.
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