Outdoor frost-resistant gate closer: types and options. Frost-resistant closers for doors and gates Do-it-yourself gate closer in the country house

Construction technologies do not stand still, the equipment used is also actively developing. So, gates in private construction are increasingly equipped with security video systems, and a street closer for a gate has replaced conventional springs.

The design of the frost-resistant "porter"

The sparing closing system allows to extend its service life, and also prevents the failure of the equipment installed on it, which can occur due to the sharp slamming of the doors. In addition, gates with closers installed on them are simply more comfortable and safer to use, there is no need to startle when children are in the doorway.

Benefits of using

The street closer, thanks to the design of its mechanism, provides maximum smoothness when closing the door, making this process almost silent. We can say that this device is distinguished by its versatility, since it can easily cope with door leaves, regardless of their severity: the material can be quite light, it can be heavy wood or completely metal.

standard model

A sufficient long-term use of such devices made it possible to improve their design and eliminate defects in operation, if any.

Note! Modern high-quality devices provide the gate with maximum smoothness, relieving the canvas from shaking and damage during sudden closing, and eliminating unwanted noise from opening or closing it. Gates with such a device on the territory of private land ownership look much nobler and last longer.

Features of choice

The choice of any device is influenced by its characteristics. Each of the parameters depends on the requirements for the device itself, tasks to be completed:

• the most important parameter is power. It is necessary to be sure that the closing force will be sufficient for the weight of the gate leaf. As a rule, it is quite heavy, so the higher the value of this parameter, the better. It is also possible that two devices are used at once to provide sufficient power;

Can be used in pairs

• possibility of adjustment. It is likely that after installing the device on a specific gate, especially if it has high power, it will need to be adjusted based on the severity of the leaf: this will depend on the force and speed with which the door can close.

Adjustment of the closer on the spot allows you to provide more comfortable conditions for its operation, and also extends its life, which is important;

• the presence of a latch in the "open" position. Often there are situations when you need to leave the door in the open position: you need to bring a large number of things into the house, guests have arrived in large numbers, and someone constantly goes out of the gate, and many others. In this case, street closers are needed for the gate with a latch that keeps it open and prevents it from closing.

The presence of a lock on the door closer protects it from a quick failure. As a rule, in order for the door not to close, any heavy objects are placed under it. The desire of the mechanism to close the door leads to a constant voltage in it until it closes, which negatively affects the operation and durability of the device.

In order to ensure the full porch of the gate to the frame, as well as its smooth closing, a door closer is provided. The closer on the gate allows you to close the doors without much effort. It often happens that in a hurry you did not close the gate closely. So that it does not remain open, this device will completely close it. It is very comfortable. Closers for gates today are presented in a wide variety.

What should he be

There are a number of requirements for this mechanism. And this is not surprising, because its operation is not carried out in favorable conditions. On the street, this mechanism is under the constant influence of the environment. Rain, damp, snow and more. So, it must match the following parameters:

• High mechanical strength. This is an important requirement, because it is constantly under the influence of mechanical load.
• Frost resistance. If the air temperature has dropped, it must continue to function.
• Moisture resistance. Moisture has a negative effect on such mechanisms. Therefore, the street closer must cope with it.

Principle of operation

Although there are several types of them, the principle of operation is practically the same. To open the gate, you need to make a little effort. This force is transferred to the closer system and sets the piston in motion. After the piston, there is usually a spring that compresses. The energy accumulated in it creates pressure and the piston returns to its original position. As a result, the gate closes on its own. Due to the fact that there is air or oil inside, the system works smoothly and without sudden movements. In some door closer models, it is possible to adjust the gate closing speed.

What to look for when choosing

The choice of such a mechanism is a responsible matter. It is important to take into account a number of nuances. Otherwise, the purchased mechanism will not cope with the task successfully. Or in extreme cases, it will work for a while, and then quickly fail. So, the wicket system should be chosen based on the following parameters:

• Power. This is one of the important parameters. Power must correspond to the weight of the entire gate. If the device is small and has a small power reserve, and the sash is large and heavy, then the device will fail very quickly. As well as vice versa.
• The presence of a latch. Preferably, this latch should leave the gate in the "open" position. This is an important function, as there are situations when certain objects / things should be brought through the doorway. Thanks to this latch, the life of the door closer is extended.

Advice! If you have already bought this mechanism and it turned out that there is no latch in it, you can simply put a heavy object under the door. However, this should not be abused! The mechanism is designed to close. And his desire to complete this task will create a strong tension within the mechanism. This negatively affects the duration of its operation.

Varieties of closers

Street closers to the gate acquire a variety of types. Now we suggest you familiarize yourself with the main mechanisms. They are of three types and differ in the principle of action:

• Electrical.
• Pneumatic.
• Hydraulic.

Electric provide silent operation. Moreover, the door will open and close smoothly. The electric mechanism will ensure its safe use, especially if you have elderly relatives or small children.

It should be noted that opening/closing of the gate can be carried out in a non-contact way. For this, a special button is installed, which is enough to press. Such devices have different configurations, which allows you to choose it directly for your circumstances.

As for the hydraulic device, it is possible to adjust the force and speed of the wicket slam on it. Hydraulic mechanisms work with both external and internal types of loops. Their main advantage is that installation does not require special knowledge. You can install it yourself. One half of the device is mounted directly on the gate, and the second on the frame.

Another type of closer is pneumatic. Such a device should be purchased in conditions of enhanced and harsh use. The principle of operation of this mechanism is that when the gate is opened, air is compressed in front of the piston, and a vacuum is formed on its reverse side.

Pneumatic gate closers have the following specifications:

• Ability to work at temperatures from -50°С to +50°С.
• The opening angle reaches up to 160°.
• The construction of the closer is made of stainless steel.
• For sealing, polyurethane cuffs are used.
• The pneumatic cylinder and the swivel assembly have a connecting hinge.
• Possibility of installation on the left and right doors.
• Can be installed both vertically and horizontally.

Operating requirements

Conclusion

So, we have seen that closers come in a variety of spring, pneumatic, hydraulic, and the like. If you have made his choice, then it is important to know how to use it correctly. After all, the duration of its operation will depend on this.

One of the important requirements is imposed directly on the gate itself. Its hinges must be installed clearly without distortions. Otherwise, the efficiency of the closer is reduced. Moreover, the mechanism you choose must match the weight and size of the gate.

So, it is important to ensure the following requirements:

• Do not forcefully press the gate so that it closes faster.
• It is not recommended to place objects under the doors for a long time, holding the mechanism in the “open” position.
• You should not just open / close the gate. Use it only for its intended purpose.

These are, perhaps, all the basic requirements that apply to the selection and operation of a gate closer. Consider the tips in this article and you will be able to choose the best mechanism that will suit your needs. If you have already made your choice and know about other nuances, then write about it in the comments to this article. This will help others make the right choice and avoid mistakes.

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. In the entrance of a city house with an iron door, this one should also be placed with caution. 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.

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 resourceful 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 it is difficult for a small child or an elderly person to open the sash, which is fixed by a powerful spring. And the appearance of 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. According to their 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, then it is better for you not to find the pneumatic closer. 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.

Closers for internal use on street gates cannot be used. 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.

A door closer is a mechanical device, the purpose of which is to ensure automatic smooth closing of the door leaf and its fixation. In addition to saving time, it reduces wear and tear on hinges, locks and other door hardware. If you want to choose a gate closer, how to install or adjust it yourself, then you should read this manual.

The main difference between the gate closer is that it is used at increased load (large door inertia, frequent opening and closing, wind pressure, impacts) at various temperatures (from -30 to +50) and with direct contact with moisture and icing. Therefore, only devices designed for outdoor installation may be used. "Internal" mechanisms, not designed for such harsh conditions, will fail very soon.

The main criterion for choosing a mechanism: the mass and width of the door leaf that it serves. According to these two parameters, the moment of inertia is determined, according to which the power of the mechanisms is classified.

Attention! If the width of your gate is more than 1600 mm. - the use of even the most powerful models will be inefficient.

Measure the angle at which the door opens.

You also need to prepare (strengthen and paint) the door leaf and support in places of potential installation. These places depend on the model of the mechanism, which we will discuss later.

“Their” and “our” standards

All closers for internal doors or for street gates manufactured or imported into Russia must comply with GOST 56177-2014. We are interested in devices with the code DN (consignment notes), possibly DF (with additional functions, such as a delay before closing). The letter code is followed by numbers and letters. What do they mean? In order:

• class (from 1 to 7). The greater the moment of inertia, the higher the class (according to the table it is found based on the measured mass and width of the web);
• reliability (from 1 to 3);
• possibility of application in fire doors (need 1, meaning "yes");
• application in different climates. Code H (norm) - from -15 to +40. Code M (frost-resistant door closers) - will work below -15;
• corrosion resistance. 1 - the highest;

Surface-mounted model with delay before closing, for a door 1000 mm wide. weighing 55 kg, class 1 in terms of reliability, for frosts up to -20, the maximum corrosion resistance will have the code DNDF311M1.

In Europe, the EN 1154 standard is used, which also defines 7 classes according to the moments of inertia. Inexpensive models are available in one class, for example EN 2. Those that have the ability to adjust will have a code like EN 2-4.

It is desirable: do not buy the mechanism "with a margin." This will not add durability, it will just take more effort to open. If instead of one mechanism you get two, which will stand on the same axis, then this increases the efficiency not by half, but by 30%.

Various types of mechanisms

• • electric. Combines the functions of a closer and a lock. A low-power electric motor feeds a gearbox with an electromagnetic clutch. The mechanism is small, the door can be opened by pressing a button and locked in the open position without wear on the mechanism. In expensive models, a complete set with a card reader is possible. The closer for the wicket door with closing shutdown is convenient for people with limited mobility, as well as if you regularly need to carry a baby stroller through the door;
  • pneumatic closer - more versatile, because works thanks to the vacuum inside the piston. The time of its “life” is limited only by the tightness, which is “held” by the polyurethane cuff. Installation options - both vertically and horizontally. Needs lubrication of the hinges about twice a year. Inexpensive models may come with low-quality mounting plates and bolts - this is worth paying attention to;

• hydraulic - the opening force is transmitted through the gears to the compressible piston. The opening force, the smoothness of closing can be adjusted with the help of bolts brought to the body.
• spring closer - homemade, handicraft or factory-made. Mounted on self-tapping screws, has one speed. Usually "holds" small gates weighing up to 30 kg. Manual force adjustment. It is trouble-free, the main thing is that the spring is protected from moisture.

For outdoor closers, a lever mechanism with an upper locking type is common (right or left, depending on the door).

How to install

Most of the street closers (excluding electric ones) can be installed by hand. To avoid vandalism, it is better to fix from the side of the yard. Using the level, the canvas and the supporting column are marked. The mechanism is screwed onto the gate with self-tapping screws. A reciprocal bar is fixed on the support column at the same level. If the post is brick or reinforced concrete, then it is better to fix it to the anchor metal plate. After that, a movable lever is attached and adjusted between the mechanism and the rod.

Interesting: how to install a closer? Above or in the middle of the canvas? Spring closers are most effective in the middle, the bulk of hydraulic and pneumatic ones are on top.

If you have a gate without a top crossbar, then it is advisable to install a pneumatic leverless door closer. Such vertical closers for the gate also consist of two parts: one is mounted on a support, the second - on the canvas. When closing, the door presses on a spring that compresses the piston with gas. Expanding - the gas presses on the spring, which can be adjusted for smooth closing. Depending on the model, they can provide an opening angle of up to 180°.

On a note: a gate with a door closer, equipped with a device for fixing the leaf in the open position. Without it, the device will "resist" a long open door, and wear out quickly.

Terms of use

• do not fix the door in the open position with a brick, and do not let children play with the door. All this leads to premature failure of the mechanism. Doors with lever mechanisms are fixed with a spring stopper;
• “manual closings” are also harmful. To avoid them, adjust the closing speed - quickly, but gently;
• adjust and lubricate moving parts twice a year;
• if the door leaf is heavy or it is regularly pushed with force and it can fly away from the support, a backstop braking function is needed;
• regularly inspect the casing - it must be intact and not let moisture through to the mechanism.