Do-it-yourself gate closer in the country house. We fix the bringing device on the street door on our own. Why are not all door closers frost-resistant?

Usually, all fences are equipped with gates. And if, to increase comfort, automation is installed on the gate, then the gates can be equipped with a door closer. This accessory ensures smooth and, most importantly, complete closing of the gate. Indeed, in a hurry, you may not notice that the sash is not completely closed.

Closer

What is a closer

The gate closer is very useful device, which provides safety and increases the comfort of use. Its main functions:

• ensures smooth closing of the gate;
• makes sure that the sash is completely attached to the sugary bar;
• can fix the door in open position.

Also, the gate will not slam much when closing - and this is also a plus, since it increases the service life of the locking mechanism.

Device diagram

Operating principle

Despite the abundance of models on modern market, circuit diagram The operation of all devices is approximately the same:

• when opening, it is necessary to apply a certain force - it is transmitted to the door closer;
• because there is a spring in it, it is unclenched under the influence of this force;
• also, the mechanism involves the use of a pneumatic or hydraulic piston;
• thanks to this, the closing of the doors is smooth.

And besides, in many models, it is possible to set the desired clamping force and speed.

Pneumatic closer

Primary requirements

Since the gate closer is used on the street, a number of strict requirements are imposed on it:

• frost resistance - it is very important that it works at low temperatures, because if the device freezes, it will simply break during the first winter;
• moisture resistance - again, the use of this accessory outdoors involves direct rain and snow, so the design must have reliable protection from water penetration;
• durability - according to normal, a good device should work for more than one year without problems.

Based on this, it is better not to purchase the cheapest models. And besides, it is necessary to take into account the wicket windage and weight - the power of the unit should assume the effect of wind on the plane of the structure.

Important! It is desirable that the mechanism be equipped with a special lock - it allows you to leave the gate in the open position. This is necessary in cases where you have to bring something into the yard, because if you just support the gate with a stone, this will create tension inside the door closer, which obviously will not extend its service life.

hydraulic mechanism

Kinds

Today, three main types of closers are offered:

• electric - provide silent and safe operation. As an additional option, you can purchase a mechanism that will open and close the door with a button, however, for operation, you will need to supply electricity to the fence;
• hydraulic - work is based on the use of a hydraulic piston, these are quite powerful and durable devices;
• pneumatic - the most unpretentious closers, able to work in conditions of low temperatures and high loads. The work is based on the use of an air cylinder with compressed air.

Naturally, when choosing, it is worth proceeding from the budget, operating conditions, as well as specifications device.

electrical view

Choice

For right choice accessory, you need to consider the following parameters:

• working conditions;
• door weight - the power of the mechanism should be selected with a small margin;
• you need to consider in which direction the gate opens;
• the device must provide free opening to the maximum required position;
• the ability to mount on the right or left door;
• material for the manufacture of the unit body;
• the possibility of adjusting the mechanism.

Also, when buying, you should pay attention to the complexity of the installation - the easier it is to do, the better.

Operating rules

As with any other thing, there are some rules when using a closer. If you are guided by them during the operation of this unit, then it can last a long time and without breakdowns.

Important! Most often, the working elements of the door closer cannot be repaired. Therefore, in the event of a breakdown, you have to buy a new device.

• the gate should be closed with the help of a mechanism, you should not press it down with your hand and try to cover the sash faster - this can cause the mechanism to quickly fail;
• you should not leave the gate open for a long time - since a strong voltage arises in the chamber and the spring, the mechanism wears out quickly;
• periodically you need to make adjustments, the recommended frequency of maintenance is 2 times a year;
• during adjustment, it is necessary to lubricate all rubbing parts.

Also, before installing the closer on the street gate, it is recommended to check the operation of the sash - it should open and close smoothly and effortlessly. If, for example, there are distortions of the canopies or the canvas itself, then such problems are best eliminated immediately. Otherwise, the closer will not be able to function normally and will quickly fail.

Adjustment scheme

Mounting the mechanism

First, you need to choose the right device. And here it is important to understand that there are closers that are designed for indoor use only. Therefore, in no case should they be used on the street, because. their elements are not designed for operation in sub-zero temperatures and exposure to high humidity.

Next, you need to select the type of device. In fact, all proposed types provide the necessary functionality. However, there are certain limitations in their use. For example, for electrical appliances, you need to connect to the mains. Those. such points must be taken into account initially.

Basic installation rules

Regardless of the type of accessory, there are several simple rules to be considered during installation:

• most often you have to change the fasteners that come with the kit to more powerful ones;
• it is better to mount the closer on the inside of the doors - it can be broken or stolen;
• in order not to make a mistake with the markup, you should use the marking template that usually comes with the accessory;

Also, before installation, you should carefully study the instructions - this way you can avoid possible errors.

Installation

Installation instructions:

• first, you need to make markings on the sash and on the support post, for this, a template is applied to the selected place and marks are made through it;
• if the pillar is brick, then you will first need to fix a metal plate on it;
• further, the device is attached to the door;
• then, you need to fix the counterpart on the pole;
• after that, the closing speed and pressure density are adjusted;
• if the accessory is equipped with a lock button, then it should also be configured.

If it is necessary to install a closer for a street gate without a top crossbar, then models without a lever must be used. In this case, one part is attached to the pole, and the second to the sash. And such a mechanism works due to a spring and a piston. They ensure smooth operation of the outdoor door.

Thus, there is nothing complicated in the installation and it is not necessary to be a professional to carry it out yourself. The main thing is to initially choose the device itself correctly, and after installation, adjust according to the instructions.

The smooth automatic return of the wicket leaf eliminates impacts of the working parts when closing, prevents arbitrary opening, as well as premature breakage of the locking devices. The installation of a door closer on the gate solves these problems, the installation of which can be done by hand.

After installation on the gate

The street closer must meet the following requirements:

1. Uninterrupted operation at temperature conditions from −50 °С to +50 °С.
2. Possibility of installation to the right and to the left of the opening leaf of a door.
3. Must provide a comfortable opening angle of at least 90°.
4. The work of the mechanics provides a door closing force of at least 50 N.
5. The product should not be large, it should be comfortably placed at the installation site.

You should pay attention to the method of attachment.

If the design of the gate provides for mounting on poles without connecting the top bar, then you should refer to models designed specifically for such operating conditions.

Design Options

Before going to the store for a gate closer, you should consider all kinds of device options. For specific conditions, choose the optimal combination of functionality, quality and price.

Electrical

The electric closer for the gate is represented by the combination in one mechanism of the functions of bringing the gate to the closed position and the locking device. The mover is an electric motor with a reduction gear.

One of the options

Such a product has small size, but at the same time it can perform additional functions: fix the door in the open position, open it using a remote control, and others.

Additional options are especially relevant for use in families with young children and people with disabilities. Electrical products are in a high price category.

Pneumatic

A kind of door closer, where the gate is smoothly closed by air compression. The actuator is represented by a cylinder, piston, spring, sealing elements. When the sash is opened, the piston, moving, creates excess air pressure. Under its action, the piston moves in the opposite direction, the leaf takes its original position, and thus the gate closes.

Pneumatic design

Pneumatic closers have proven themselves positively when operating in harsh conditions low temperature, as well as during the summer heat. The device is used both in horizontal and vertical arrangement, while the opening angle can reach 160°. The cost depends on the brand of the manufacturer and the main characteristics, but the main models presented have a budget price. They are available for families with any income.

Do-it-yourself assembly drawing

When the spring returns to its original position, that is, when the door is closed, the oil returns to the first chamber. Smooth running is regulated by increasing or decreasing the diameter of the passage channels.

For the manufacture of housings of hydraulic devices, special aluminum and metal alloys are used, which allow the closers to be operated under the most adverse weather conditions.

Most of the models are in the middle price category.

Homemade

Self-made closers do not differ in elegance and impeccably smooth operation, but are used in household for a long time.

For a door from a profile pipe

These include:

1. Spring homemade closer. It was mainly installed on wooden gates. The spring was attached to the sash and the support post. It required considerable physical effort to swing open, and if the door did not hold when closing, then it would close to the stop quickly and uncontrollably.
2. Cable. A steel cable of large diameter and a length of 30-40 cm is supplemented with clamps for fastening to the pole and the gate leaf. Install with its closed position, after making several turns of the cable. The principle of operation is similar to the spring finishing system.
3. Car shock absorber for smooth closing of the trunk. Justifies the installation only in the version with light door leaves. Prior to installation, a fastening drawing is developed, taking into account the stem extension and adaptation of the fastening.

Frost resistant design

The choice of a closer system is attributed to the personal preferences of the owner of the household. But only him correct installation will provide a comfortable mode of opening the gate.

Scheme for adjustment

Installation is carried out in the following sequence:

1. Markup. With a pencil or marker, markup is transferred to the frame of the gate and the top bar. Some manufacturers simplify this procedure by adding do-it-yourself closer installation instructions with patterns.
2. The actuator is installed to the leaf of the gate. For fastening, we use self-tapping screws for metal of the required elasticity.
3. The reciprocal plate, in the same plane with the actuator, is mounted on the crossbar above the gate.
4. Then it is necessary to install traction in a regular place. After fixing, their "removal" is regulated. It should prevent the opening door leaf at an angle of at least 90°.
5. The next adjustment concerns the closing speed of the sash. Adjustment screws are used for adjustment. Clockwise rotation reduces the door closing speed.
6. When all installations are completed, the closer is closed with protective covers provided for by the design.

Installation drawing

Having decided how to install the closer on the gate without the top crossbar, it is necessary to take into account that the installation is completed by installing protective covers in regular places and checking the operation of the adjusted mechanism.

Installation of a closer without a top crossbar is shown in the video below.

When choosing an outdoor door closer for entrance access doors and gates, reliability and frost resistance come first. Not all models that work well at room temperature tolerate frost well.

In the online store Technical Laboratory in Moscow, you can buy inexpensive door closers designed and tested in Western Siberia, where frosts below -45 ° C are not uncommon.

Why are not all door closers frost-resistant?

The manufacturer is not obliged to declare the frost resistance of his device, since it is not described in any standard and regulation. GOST 5091-78, the only regulatory document for door closers in the USSR, described only the speed of closing the door and the possibility of adjusting the opening angle of the door leaf.

European devices often lose their functionality already at -15 °C, which will definitely create problems when installing them on gates. At the entrance of a city house with iron door This also needs to be done with care. At -40 °C outside the window in the installation area of ​​the door closer it can be quite cold.

A number of devices from European manufacturers have confirmed their performance at -40 °C. This required additional seasonal adjustment. In particular, operating temperatures down to -40 °C have been confirmed for the Dorma Compakt.

Russian door closers come to the rescue, whose reliability in frost down to -50 ° C has been tested in cold regions of Russia. In addition, the price of Russian developments is quite democratic.

Arctic Line door closers

Its developer is an example of a well-organized full cycle from development to production with honest quality control of products leaving the factory.

• Pneumatic design with reliable mechanism tested to 1.5 million open/close cycles.
• Work in a wide temperature range from -50 to +50 °C. The manufacturer claims that ice, which interferes with the operation of the device, does not form on polymer parts.
• Installation on any door weighing up to 120 kg or a gate. Protection against moisture and dust is not required.
• Added bonus: vandal-resistant construction. Supports the weight of an adult without damage.
• Affordable price.

An additional seasonal adjustment is required to ensure that the door closes smoothly in cold weather. The oil thickens at low temperatures, and the operation of the closer changes. Adjustment is made by valves to change the closing speed.

Door closers DRS

Two more masterpieces from Russian developers:

• designed for installation on wide doors with a leaf of more than 90 mm.
• for narrow doors up to 90 mm wide.

Frost-resistant street closer on the gate - a device that is designed for smooth and complete closing of the gate (door, gate). The installation of this device allows you to automatically close the doors without taking any action. Homeowners, summer residents and builders are showing a keen interest in such modern structures.

Such devices play an important role in long-term operation.

Pros of closers

The benefit of this mechanism is obvious - the door closer will smoothly close the gate or door left in the bustle. When driving a car into a fenced area, there is no need to return to the gate to close it, the gate closer will do its job perfectly.

The positive side is the prevention of hitting the gate on the frame

The smoothness of the movement of the mechanism allows you to significantly extend the life of the door device, its locking elements, hinges and eliminates the appearance of extraneous noise from closing.

At present, the frost-resistant gate closer is a very popular product. Manufacturers offer a wide range of this device on the market. They can be for gates, as well as be installed on doors and gates.

Example of a door closer with increased resistance to weather conditions

Features of closers

Despite its prevalence and external simplicity, a number of important features must be taken into account in the manufacture and purchase of a mechanism for sashes.

The door closer is a movable device, and as a result, friction strongly affects all its nodes. As a result of the swing of the gate, vibrations occur, often it hits foreign objects.

Each type of device has its own strengths and weaknesses.

These features determine:

• vibration resistance;
• impact resistance;
• wear resistance.

Very often, the device is installed outdoors, so when used, the mechanism will be affected by temperature changes, excessive dampness, snow, ice and many other natural factors.

Most often, frost-resistant options have durable protective covers.

Based on these features, the design should have the following qualities:

• frost resistance (even at a negative air temperature, the device must properly close the gate);
• moisture protection (as a rule, moisture has a very negative effect on any mechanisms. Therefore, the closer must have moisture protection, or be made of moisture-resistant nodes. In any case, moisture should not affect the performance of the device).

Read also: The height of the fence from corrugated board according to the law: optimal and standard options

Principle of operation

Today, there are many samples on the market that have fundamental differences in their device, but the principle of operation of any of them is the same.

When opening the gate, the applied force is transferred to the mechanism of the device. The most common mechanism has a metal spring and a piston. It moves along the gate, the spring is compressed, the created pressure forms an energy directed in the opposite direction to the initial movement of the mechanism.

Door mechanism device

When the opening force ceases to act, the energy of the compressed spring begins to return the piston, and therefore the entire gate, to its original position. Due to the fact that there is compressed air and oil in the cylinder with the piston, the gate moves smoothly and evenly when closing. There are models with the ability to adjust the stroke of the piston, which allows you to adjust the speed of closing the gate.

Speed ​​control

Varieties

Currently, the consumer is increasingly buying door closers. Although the principle of operation of all mechanisms is the same, today there are many varieties of these devices.

Depending on the type, the price for them can vary significantly. In order for the buyer to choose the most suitable model, it will be useful to familiarize yourself with their main types.

Installation on the door depending on the direction of opening

All closers are usually divided into three types:

1. Hydraulic.
2. Pneumatic.
3. Electrical.

hydraulic

Closers with a hydraulic mechanism are the most common devices today. Their work is based on the movement of the piston and the compression of the spring. They consist of two parts, one for the gates, the other for its frame. This type can work with any kind of loops.

Diagram of the device of the hydraulic mechanism

To install a hydraulic closer, no special knowledge and skills are required, it can be done by one person without outside help.

After installation, the majority of hydraulic mechanisms will be able to adjust the smoothness of movement and the speed of closing the gate.

Pneumatic

One of the newest types of construction is an outdoor frost-resistant door closer with a pneumatic mechanism.

Read also: Fence on an uneven site with a slope: installation on a slope, how to build, photo and video

Its principle of operation is also based on the movement of the piston in the cylinder, however, such models do not have a spring. When the flaps are opened, air is compressed on one side of the piston, and a vacuum is formed on the other. Compressed air pressure returns the open gate to its original position.

The principle of operation of the device with pneumatics

Closers of this design have many advantages:

1. They remain operational in a wide temperature range, as a rule, from −50°С to +50°С, with ice and heavy snow cover.
2. The working units of the device are made of high quality stainless steel, so the device is not afraid of corrosion.
3. The sealing elements are made of wear-resistant polyurethane, which minimizes the effects of friction and allows the device to remain mobile for a long time without maintenance.
4. They have a wide opening angle of up to 160°, thus they are the most convenient in places of construction, repair, congestion of large groups of people.
5. Such closers can be installed regardless of the opening side of the gate.
6. The device can be placed in a vertical or horizontal position. That is why they can equip not only gates, doors, gates, but also furniture in production.

The idea of ​​​​installing pneumatics on the gate

Electrical

One of the most complex in their design and installation method are electric door closers. Their design can be without the top crossbar. The complexity of this design is due to the presence of functions that it does not have in any other types of door closers.

Electric mechanism mounting option

These functions include:

1. Safety of use (the door closer will not close the gate if there is a small child or animal in the opening).
2. Smooth not only closing, but also opening the gate.
3. Maximum quiet operation.
4. Automatic opening and closing by arranging a separate button or remote control.
5. The presence of a large number of options and settings in itself allows you to choose the most suitable device for the needs of the client.
6. Possibility of temporarily disabling the functions of the door closer without dismantling the device itself.
7. Aesthetic look.

Schematic representation of an electric gate closer

What to look for when buying a door closer

Choosing a street closer for a gate or wicket is not the most difficult task, but some features should still be taken into account. Otherwise, the purchased device may not work properly or break down after working for a very short time.

Installation and configuration instructions

The main parameters that deserve attention are:

• power is the main parameter of the closer. A device with low power will fail very quickly if it is attached to a large, massive gate. If a powerful closer ends up on a light, small gate, then there is a high probability of its breakdown, tearing off of the hinges, failure of the locking device;
• the presence of a latch - it is necessary in order to leave the gate open for a while. This is required when furniture and other things are brought through the passage, and a large number of people pass through. In this case, the absence of a latch will lead to inconvenience and increased wear of the closer mechanism.

Methods for placing mechanisms

Some owners, instead of a latch, put props from improvised means under the gate. In this case, there is a risk of creating excessively strong tension in the cylinder, which will also reduce the life of the door closer.

Simple and reliable pneumatic device

Are you tired of the constant loud slamming of the gate? The slightest breeze makes your gate close with a roar? Why endure and listen, there is an opportunity to eliminate this trouble, all the more serious financial investments, on the mechanism holding the sash, will not be needed.

More enterprising and inventive owners find a way out in a simple way- an ordinary strong spring can keep the door in the opening from the wind. One end of the spring is attached to the leaf of the gate, and the other end is located on its support post. But such a mechanism is not always convenient because little child or it is difficult for an elderly person to open a sash fixed with a powerful spring. Yes and appearance such a device is not very attractive.

In building supermarkets there is a huge selection of pneumatic, electric or hydraulic closers that can be installed on street doors. These devices provide smooth closing of the gate, which reduces the likelihood of breakage, softens the blow, and they look more presentable.

Types and design features

Schematic representation of a pneumatic device

This additional accessory improves the functionality of swing systems, both wickets and gates. Manufacturers have taken care of the quality of these devices, which allows their use in various climatic conditions. High-quality closers are frost-resistant, wear-resistant and durable. They do not corrode and are able to withstand severe loads.

When choosing, you should pay attention to the degree of load, frequency of use and, accordingly, to the characteristics of the product. By their own design features mechanisms are divided into three main types:

1. Electric - silent, reliable mechanisms that provide multiple movements of the gate. This mechanism increases the level of safety for children and the elderly. It is a versatile, rugged and compact device that is easy to install yourself.
2. Hydraulic - adjustable mechanisms in which the force is regulated, as well as the speed of closing the sash. Installation of such a mechanism is quite easy, as it comes with instructions with a detailed and consistent description. Mechanisms are designed to work in various weather conditions.
3. If operation of a gate in the strengthened and severe conditions is necessary, it is better pneumatic closer you can't find. Its simplified design allows gentle closing by compressing air with a piston, on the other side of which a vacuum is created. These are just those mechanisms that do not require additional care. In addition, they can work at low temperatures, and their possible opening angle is up to 160º.

Prevention and inspection of knots

Such closers are made of high quality steel, their cuffs are made of polyurethane, and the swivel assembly and cylinder are equipped with a swivel joint. Such mechanisms are mounted on any side of the opening and in any direction. This device is the most durable and unpretentious in maintenance, moreover, it does not require regular adjustments.

You can make a door closer yourself, you will learn about one of these from the video.

Rules for mounting a useful accessory

To ensure a long service life, it is necessary to follow the rules for installing and operating the mechanism. The conditions are not so unrealistic as to be ignored. First, about the installation.

You should carefully consider the choice of fasteners for the mechanism. This takes into account the force of opening the gate, and the greater the effort, the more reliable the fasteners should be. Even if the kit is equipped, in your opinion, with unreliable fasteners, it is better to replace them.

Do not use closers for internal use on street gates. And after installing the device, you should adjust its actions with a screwdriver.

Some models of closers have additional functions, for example, fixing an open gate. To ensure that the sash is held, tighten the nut on the lever.

The sequence of the entire installation process of any type of door closer is practically no different from each other. You can learn more about this procedure from the video.

Operational Requirements

Well, the most important thing! If your gate or its hinges are installed poorly, that is, there are distortions or the instability of the hinges is noticed, then the life of the door closer is significantly reduced.

It is important to comply with all operational requirements:

• it is not recommended to make efforts to close the sash more quickly;
• any objects inserted into the opening, in order to keep the sash open, lead to damage to the mechanism;
• you should not once again unnecessarily close and open the doorway. Often children arrange games with the participation of protective structures.

It is extremely rare that a device can be repaired, more often it has to be replaced. Like any other mechanism, the door closer requires a careful attitude, and in gratitude, it serves its owners for a long time and without fail.