I want to bring to your attention an item produced by D&D Technologies. First, from a safety standpoint, they'll help keep children safe by keeping them from areas where they shouldn't be, such as swimming pools (Figure 12-11). Second, they're injection-molded glass-fiber reinforced polymers, not metal like most hinges and latches. This makes then 100 percent rust free for life. It's not enough to build a fence around the pool to discourage little ones from entering. You have to have the proper hardware for controlling the gate.

Photo Courtesy of: D&D Technologies

Figure 12-11 The right hardware helps protect children around swimming pools

A tension-adjustable, self-closing hinge, Tru-Close offers over 30 models to choose from. They're available in two categories, Regular and Heavy Duty, to handle gates made from vinyl, wood, aluminum, and heavier metal that weigh up to 132 pounds. They can be adjusted in a matter of minutes. The spring is made of stainless steel to ensure powerful, reliable closure.

Why is tension adjustment important and required? Gates differ in size and weight and will experience different wind loads. Lighter gates should close softly while heavier gates (including those in windy areas) require greater closing tension. Pool inspectors, as the manufacturer points out, require a gate to close from any position, including at rest on the latching mechanism. If it doesn't meet the test, the inspector will require hinge replacement. Fixed tension hinges aren't recommended for swimming pool or other safety gates. As you can see in Figure 12-12, it's a simple matter of removing the cap by taking out the screw, then adjusting the tension with a screwdriver.

Photo Courtesy of: D&D Technologies

Figure 12-12 Adjust tension in both hinges

Tru-Close hinges carry a limited lifetime warranty and have been tested to meet BOCA, CSPC (Consumer Products Safety Commission), AFA (American Fence Association), and NSPI (National Spa & Pool Institute) barrier codes. The "quick-fit alignment legs" give added strength, and allow for quick and easy hinge alignment on both the post and the gate. They were designed to set a gap which is large enough not to jam children's fingers. Regular models are available with two legs (or none) and fixed screw holes or vertical slots. The heavy-duty range includes two legs, one leg (or none), and fixed screw holes or horizontal slots for sag adjustment.

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