Baby Gate Challenges and Hacks
Installing a Baby Gate when there is no full/partial wall or pole to pressure mount against can be challenging
Here are some photos of projects I have done that might resemble your scenario and provide a possible solution to the challenge you are facing.
*Scroll down to view full gallery*
SCENARIO 1
NO POLE ON THE BOTTOM RIGHT TO PRESSURE MOUNT THE GATE AGAINST
In most instances (indoors) I have used ‘floating shelves’ available at leading hardware stores (Leroy Merlin or Builders Warehouse) or at home decor outlets (Mr Price).
The shelf creates a “fake wall” for the baby gate to pressure mount against. A good standard size to buy is 90cm (L) x 23cm (Depth) x 4cm (Thickness). Most standard baby gates vary in heights between 74-76cm.
To secure the floating shelf, simply drill at least 3 holes through the wooden panel and use cable ties and bonded washers to secure the panel. The washer will give added support to the hole you have drilled, so that when you tighten it, the cable tie doesn’t tear into the wooden shelf.
VERY IMPORTANT: Before purchasing your gate/with or without an extension; You need to know the size and thickness of the floating shelf or wood panel so that you take this into consideration when working out the size of the gate you need. Also, remember to take the skirting into consideration when working out your measurements.
FOR MORE INFO ON MEASURING AREAS FOR BABY GATES AND WORKING OUT WHAT YOU NEED – CLICK HERE
SCENARIO 2
NO WALL TO PRESSURE MOUNT THE GATE AGAINST ON THE TOP RIGHT – ALSO ITS OUTSIDE, WHAT ABOUT THE GATE RUSTING?
For outdoor areas rather use metal shelves so that they don’t warp or rot like wood would.
Very important: Spray the shelves and baby gate with Rustoleum Painters Touch 2X Ultra Cover – Gloss Clear (340g) and allow to dry thoroughly
(2 hrs) before installing.
Ideally Baby Gates should not be installed outdoors, however you can prevent rust and possible flooding by following these steps:
- Drill holes into the bottom of the gate, underneath out of sight. This is to prevent water from collecting inside the gate as the gates are hollow inside and can rust from the inside.
- Spray the shelves and baby gate with a light coat of Rustoleum Painters Touch 2X Ultra Cover – Gloss Clear (340g). Allow to dry thoroughly (2 hrs) and apply second ‘light’ coat.
- Before positioning the gate, lay down some puzzle playmats (what I normally use) or something that will lift the gate slightly from the floor so that water doesn’t accumulate or cause flooding. When you have finished installing the gate with the mounting cups provided, you can easily just pull the play mats out. These interlocking play mats are available at West Pack Lifestyle at an affordable price.
SCENARIO 3
Childproofing stairs when there is no wall on one side at all
In this case I have used the Dreambaby Royale Converta 3-in-1 Playpen Barrier Gate and mounted it to both sides of the wall with wall mounting brackets that are supplied with the product. Optional 2 Panel Royale Converta Extensions are available for larger areas. Product pages for above have all the information available including sizes, etc.
Remember to measure your area before ordering to avoid disappointment.
PHOTO GALLERY
Spiral staircase – No Space to pressure mount on the right
