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 | Assembling and fitting garden arches
Installing garden arches and other garden structures is a straightforward task.
You need just basic skills and tools.
Just unpack and follow the checklist of components to ensure you've got everything you need.
If in doubt contact us for advice.
Please do this as soon as possible after delivery.
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 | Caring for your metal garden furniture and garden structures
Metal garden furniture will give many years of care-free service, but will stay looking like new for longer if you follow these steps. Most metal garden and patio furniture is powder coated with a paint finish which is durable and hard wearing. It is easy to keep clean and the colours stay bright and fresh for a considerable time.
We recommend protecting your new metal garden furniture or structure with an additional coat of clear lacquer. We suggest a spray-on matte lacquer, for example Plastikote. It may be easier to do this before assembly depending on the design of the piece and your chosen location.
Read the manufacturer's instructions and take any advised precautions especially the use of gloves and masks. Work in a well ventilated area. Protect plants, walls and patios from overspray by using a suitable dustsheet, or even the product packaging. More ornate designs may need a second application, or use a suitable paint brush for fine detail. Don't forget the nuts and bolts - they may rust faster if left. And don't forget surfaces that will be placed against walls or fences, treat them first.
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 | Tools and tips for installing your garden arch
You will need a power drill to fix against masonry.
If fixing to soft a surface like lawn you will need tent pegs and a hammer.
In both cases it's good to get your arch plumb so a spirit level with plumb glass is helpful.
If fixing between two features (windows or doors) us your tape to get the structure central.
An extra pair of hands is also helpful when:
rasing the arch into position
checking for plumb or level
standing back to make sure the overall effect is spot on
passing tools when you've left them just out of reach!
First remember the work safe rules.
Work in a clear space without danger of tripping or falling.
Don't rest heavy or sharp objects where they can be accidentally knocked off.
Use an appropriate circuit breaker when using electricity out doors.
Use ear defenders, gloves, goggles and mask when necessary.
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 | Assembling a garden arch
Assemble your arch on level ground as close as possible to the final position.
Make sure the surface will not scratch or damage the paint finish.
Use the packaging to work on if necessary.
Have your fittings and tools nearby.
Trial fit the fixing bolts.
Add the washers.
Finger tighten the locking nuts.
Keep the whole thing loose until you're happy it's correctly aligned.
Tighten the nuts gradually, moving on to the one opposite every few turns.
You might need to hold the nut/screw with a second spanner/screwdriver.
I necessary get you helper to do this.
Final tightening and then a check to see the whole assembly looks right.
If it doesn't check the handing of the components, are they right way up?
Once any problems are sorted out.
Get your helping hand to grab the other side so you can both raise together.
Make sure the bottom end can't skid as you begin to raise.
Once upright, gently lift into final position and secure with pegs, screws or masonry bolts. |
![Don't want to DIY?]() | Don't want to DIY?
If you don't fancy self-assembly than call us for a quote for professional installation.
01638 552809
enquiries@SandEdge.com |
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