TACKLING COMMON INSTALLATION CHALLENGES WITH BABY GATES
CRUCIAL INSTALLATION DISCLAIMER
Installing baby gates requires a certain level of skill; taking on this task without the assistance of a professional may lead to safety hazards and unexpected expenses.
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The following examples highlight various challenges I have encountered during installations, which may reflect your own experiences and offer valuable solutions.
INSTALLATION ISSUE 1: UNEVEN SURFACES
ADDRESSING THE CHALLENGE OF UNEVEN SURFACES
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- Measure the widest point at the top to determine the necessary size for the gate and any required extensions. (CLICK HERE FOR MEASURING GUIDELINES).
- Once you have the gates/extensions, use an angle grinder fitted with a metal/aluminium disc to cut the gate accurately, following the measurements indicated in the reference images above.
- Remove the plastic component from the section you plan to detach and insert 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 at hand.
INSTALLATION ISSUE 2: MOUNTING ON A SKEW WALL
RESOLVING THE ISSUE OF MOUNTING ON A SKEW WALL
STEPS TO FOLLOW:
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- Ensure that the gate/extensions are fully prepared for installation.
- Use Pratley Putty Quickset to fill any gaps and create a level surface on the wall.
- Allow the Putty to cure completely BEFORE tightening the tension knobs to secure the gate in place using pressure.
- Do not rely on the gate for safety until all installation steps are completed and the gate has been tested for stability.
INSTALLATION ISSUE 3: INSTALLING BABY GATES OUTDOORS
NAVIGATING THE CHALLENGE OF OUTDOOR BABY GATE INSTALLATION
While installing baby gates outdoors can be a quick and cost-effective solution, it may also void the warranty on these products.
I recommend that outdoor installations of baby gates be regarded as a temporary and economical solution. This may risk voiding your warranty on the gates.
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- Baby gates are specifically engineered for indoor applications and are not intended for outdoor use due to potential exposure to severe weather conditions.
- This limitation is clearly stated in the warranty documentation provided with the product.
- Failure to adhere to warranty conditions will result in the loss of warranty coverage.
For a durable solution, consider employing a contractor who specialises in security or latch gates. Although this may entail higher costs, it represents the most effective approach.
PREPARATION OF THE BABY GATE AND EXTENSIONS FOR OUTDOOR USE:
Disclaimer: None of these measures can guarantee complete rust protection; however, they are intended to extend the lifespan of the gate under South African climatic conditions.
Regular maintenance every 1-2 months can significantly lower the risk of rust.
To reduce 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 the surface areas at the base as well.
- 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 ensure 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 issues:
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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 from non-rusted areas.
- The rust reformer will transform rust to a black hue, which should then be coated with Rust-Oleum Stops Rust Enamel Gloss White 340g, available on takealot.com.
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