Planning to pack up the campervan or car this summer and head away for a long-overdue summer break? With many of us getting ready to escape for the holidays, the last thing you want is to return to find your place has had an unwelcome visitor whose nicked a few souvenirs.
Alarmingly, new research by D&D technologies – highlighted in the Safe Gates Report – found 32% of Aussie homeowners are missing the first, and easiest, line of defence when it comes to protecting their property: a fence or gate. Further to this, of those homeowners who did have a fence or gate, 42% admitted it wasn’t adequate or secure, with 44% also admitting they didn’t check their gates and fences regularly.
And with 9.4% of Aussie households (919,500) having experienced a break-in or attempted break-in in the June 2020 to June 2021 period, according to ABS data, you’d need to have your head read if you *didn’t* install a gate or fence before you hit the road, or make sure what you have in place is in in tip-top shape.
INSTALLING GATES AND FENCES
Before shopping for materials check your local requirements; each city council across the country has its own set of regulations that dictate materials that can be used, as well height, colour, style, location, size and slat spacing.
Think about the climate as well, as this will affect whether you should choose steel, timber or aluminium. For instance, aluminium is best for seaside homes as it’s rust-proof.
When it comes to the install it’s best to hire a professional as this isn’t a project for DIY beginners; three quotes from contractors will give you a good overview of the task at hand and cost involved.
LOCK IT IN
With your gates and fence now in place, it’s time to make it secure with a lock. Good news is this part you can do yourself! Our top picks…
1. LockLatch
Operates and locks from both sides of the gate and can be rekeyed to match other household keys for convenience. Made from super-strong, rust-free materials and stainless-steel components for long-lasting durability.
Unlike conventional gate hinges, this lockable model won’t rust, bind, sag or stain. Ideal for child-proof gates, the decorative trims ensure there’s no visible fasteners. Available with black trims (as standard), chrome or polished metallic.
A magnetic gate latch cleverly designed to be adjusted 10mm horizontally and vertically to correct gate sag or ground movement over time. With no visible fasteners and a rust-free finish, it’s available in lockable and non-lockable models.
GATE MAINTAINANCE CHECKLIST
Checking the integrity of your gates and fences is a really simple process that only takes a few minutes and should be done every couple of months. Here’s how:
1. Make sure the screw fixtures and fixing points are secure.
2. Look for binding in the hinges, replace them if necessary.
3. Check the hardware for excess wear. If it is present, it may be a sign the hinges or latches are underrated for the size of the gate and are not fit for purpose.
4. Check the latch operates effectively. Basically, is the gate latching and locking properly and easily. If it is not working or damaged, then it is time for a new one.
5. Determine the integrity of your gate and fence. Is it sagging anywhere, are the post secure, has the ground moved because of excessive rain or dry weather?
6. Make sure the fence and gate hardware get a regular washdown and the gate hardware is regularly adjusted for correct alignment and closing speed of the gate.
Brought to you by D&D Technologies.
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