Baby Gate Hacks to Overcome Daily Parenting Challenges

INSTALLATION STEPS:

• • Start by measuring the widest point at the top to determine the required size for the gate and any necessary extensions. (CLICK HERE FOR MEASURING GUIDELINES).
  • After acquiring the gates and extensions, utilise an angle grinder with a metal/aluminium disc to cut the gate accurately, following the reference images provided above.
  • Detach the plastic component from the section you intend to discard, then insert it into the cut portion of the gate to ensure that the tension knob fits appropriately.
  • This process will become clearer once you have the gate physically on hand.

INSTALLATION STEPS:

• • The gate and extensions should already be assembled.
  • Utilise Pratley Putty Quickset to fill any gaps and level the wall surface.
  • Ensure the Putty has fully set BEFORE tightening the tension knobs to secure the gate using pressure.
  • Do not rely on the gate for safety until all steps are finalised and the gate has been tested for stability.

Installing baby gates outdoors can be a budget-friendly and rapid solution, but this might void the warranty on the gates.

I recommend that outdoor installation of baby gates should only be viewed as a temporary and cost-effective solution. This may void your warranty on the gates.

• • Baby gates are primarily intended for indoor use and are not designed for outdoor installation due to potential exposure to harsh weather conditions.
  • This limitation is explicitly stated in the warranty documentation included with the product packaging.
  • Failure to adhere to these warranty guidelines will lead to the warranty being rendered void.

For a more durable solution, consider hiring a contractor who specialises in security or latch gates. Although this may entail higher costs, it is the recommended approach.

STEPS FOR OUTDOOR INSTALLATION:

PREPARING THE BABY GATE AND EXTENSIONS FOR OUTDOOR USE:

Disclaimer: None of these measures guarantee complete rust protection; they are intended to prolong the lifespan of the gate in South African weather conditions.

Regular maintenance every 1-2 months can help prevent rust formation.

To avoid rust and moisture accumulation, follow these guidelines:

• • Before installation, treat the baby gate, extensions, and mounting kit, ensuring to cover the bottom surfaces as well.
  • Drill holes at the bottom of the gate using an 8mm steel drill bit to facilitate water drainage and prevent rust from forming inside the hollow gate, where moisture may accumulate at joints, connectors, and tension knobs. These holes will provide ventilation to avoid moisture build-up.
  • Apply a light coat of Rustoleum Painters Touch 2X Ultra Cover – Satin Clear 340g, available on 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:

• • Spray the rusted areas with Rust-Oleum Rust Reformer 291g, carefully following the product instructions.
  • Refer to the product description on takealot.com; you may need to purchase mineral spirits to clean any overspray on non-rusted areas.
  • The rust reformer will convert rust to a black colour, which should then be coated with Rust-Oleum Stops Rust Enamel Gloss White 340g, available on takealot.com.