(ARA) - Fall is the perfect time to inspect all fencing, gates and hardware around your property to ensure they are in good working condition. Gates that no longer close securely are probably the result of old rusty metal hinges and latches, or the gates have settled over time. These conditions can be dangerous or even deadly if ignored.
“ As part of your fall clean up, make sure that your fences and gates are functioning properly and are protected from rust, a destructive force that can render a gate useles... ”
Fences with gates in good working order, especially those that are self-closing and self-latching, can protect your home and property from unwanted intruders. Fences protect children from danger -- whether they're designed to keep toddlers out of swimming pools or to keep them in the yard, away from busy traffic. Fences can help keep your own pets in your yard, and other animals out. They can also reduce homeowners' liability.
Even if your fence has been erected primarily to define your property line, it's ineffective if access gates don't close or latch after opening. When was the last time you checked each gate around your property?
Fortunately, a revolutionary line of gate hardware can easily solve most common problems. Gate hinges and latches by D&D Technologies are made of super strong engineering polymers that will not rust, are self-lubricating and include high-grade stainless steel mounting hardware. They require little or no maintenance over the years and are backed by a limited Lifetime Warranty.
Updating your gates so that they are self-closing and self-latching, improving their security and overall look, can be done in just a few minutes with these unique products. D&D latches feature a built-in key lock, which eliminates the hassles and extra cost of a separate padlock. Their hinges have a built-in self-latching spring that is tension adjustable for different gate weights with a twist of a screwdriver and eliminates those dangerous and unsightly external springs.
If you have a pool, spa or want to prevent children from opening any gate, D&D's Magna-Latch is specifically designed for these situations. In fact, Magna-Latch is the number one selling child safety gate latch in the world. It meets most pool barrier codes and is endorsed by many safety experts.
D&D Technologies' Senior Vice President Jim Paterson recommends, "As part of your fall clean up, make sure that your fences and gates are functioning properly and are protected from rust, a destructive force that can render a gate useless. Common gravity latches are inexpensive and function fine when new. However, as soon as rust sets in, these latches no longer close without manual assistance."
He notes that rust-free gate hardware by D&D Technologies is now available through fencing contractors, hardware and home improvement stores, and online.
D&D's hinges and latches are simple to install and most models offer vertical and horizontal adjustment to correct gate misalignment caused by ground movement, children swinging on gates, or other factors.
"For the fencing itself, rust can present greater challenges," Paterson notes. "Steel fences and gates, if not protected with an effective sealant such as powder coating, must be periodically repainted with rust-resistant paint to prevent weather-related damage. Be sure to remove existing rust before painting, and use a rust-preventive primer. For wood fences, use paint specifically designed for fencing.
"Aluminum, vinyl or wood fencing can protect against rust on the fence itself," Paterson remarks, "but the hardware must still be rust-free and adjustable to ensure the gate will be in working order. A quick inspection, and, if needed, the minutes spent installing new gate hardware, can help protect your family and property, increasing security and decreasing liability."
For more information, visit www.ddtechglobal.com.
Courtesy of ARA Content
