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Strata communities face ongoing challenges in maintaining secure, compliant, and functional access points, particularly around pool areas and pedestrian gates. As major maintenance projects are planned, upgrading gate hardware is a critical consideration that directly impacts safety, security, and long-term maintenance costs. This article explores the
importance of reliable gate hardware and highlights key solutions that committees, owners, and managers can consider when addressing these essential access points.
The Importance of Reliable Gate Hardware
Gates in Strata properties endure high traffic and exposure to harsh environmental conditions. Over time, traditional spring hinges and standard latches can wear out, leading to gates that slam shut, fail to latch securely, or require constant adjustment. These issues not only create noise disturbances for residents but also pose significant safety and security risks.
In pool areas, non-compliant or malfunctioning gates are a major liability. Standards Australia require pool gates to be self-closing and self-latching from any position to prevent unauthorized access by young children. Similarly, pedestrian and security gates must close reliably to maintain the integrity of the property’s perimeter. Addressing these challenges proactively during major maintenance projects ensures compliance and enhances the overall safety of the community.
Soft Close Technology for Enhanced Safety
One of the most significant advancements in gate hardware is the development of soft close technology. Unlike traditional spring hinges that forcefully slam gates shut, soft close hinges provide a controlled, dampened closing action. This
technology offers several benefits for Strata properties:
• Noise Reduction: Soft close hinges eliminate the loud slamming noise associated with traditional gates, significantly improving the acoustic environment for residents living near access points.
• Increased Safety: The controlled closing action prevents gates from rebounding or failing to latch, ensuring that the gate secures properly every time. This is particularly crucial for pool fences and security perimeters.
• Reduced Wear and Tear: By absorbing the impact of the closing gate, soft close hinges reduce stress on the gate frame, latch, and surrounding structure, extending the lifespan of the entire assembly.
Solutions for Diverse Gate Applications
When planning gate upgrades, it is essential to select hardware that is suited to the specific application and material of the gate. Modern hinge systems offer versatile solutions for various scenarios.
Utility Surface Mount Hinges
For general-purpose applications, utility surface mount hinges provide a robust and adaptable solution. These hinges are designed to fit a broad range of gates and doors without the need for specific fitment. Advanced models, such as the
Polaris 200 Utility Surface Mount Soft Close Hinge, feature adjustable speed settings and interchangeable dampers,
allowing for a customized closing force. Constructed from durable materials like 2205 Duplex Stainless Steel, these hinges are built to withstand harsh outdoor environments and heavy usage.
Polymer Hinges for Aluminium Gates
Aluminium and light-weight metal gates require hardware that complements their construction. Polymer soft close hinges offer a strong yet economical option for these applications. Made from highly engineered, UV-stabilized polymer composites, these hinges provide the benefits of soft close technology while being resistant to corrosion and degradation. They are ideal for retrofitting existing noisy or slamming metal gates, offering a quick and effective upgrade path.
Overcoming Stubborn Closing Gates
In some situations, gates fitted with electric strike locks or those subject to high wind loads can be difficult to close
securely. Regular hinge systems may not provide sufficient force to engage the latch reliably. To address this, specialized power close systems can be employed. Products like the Polaris Powerclose work in conjunction with soft close hinges to provide an additional closing force at the final stage of the arc, ensuring a secure and engaged close. This is particularly valuable for security access gates where a positive latch is essential.
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