FAQs

Can the catches be fitted to metal posts?

They will fit any flat surface which can be drilled and bolted (10mm  bolts or screws) on metal posts many people have welded them on to the upright, this can be done using mild steel filler rods or mig wire, this will give a weld that is quite rustproof (for many years) however if the post is galvanised it would be worth treating the weld with cold galvanise or an anti-corrosion paint such as Hammerite .

General

Where can I see your catches

Click here to see a list of people and places where our catches are fitted

Where do I position the catch?

That's a matter of personal preference.

However, horse riders need it at the top of the gate post so they can reach it from the saddle. Wheelchair users require a lower position for strain-free access.

If both horse riders and wheelchair users are likely to share access, then position the catch so that firstly the wheelchair user is comfortable and then fit the extension lifter so that the horse rider can still lift the catch easily. Wheelchair users generally find it comfortable to operate when it is fitted 90 cm (36 inches) above the ground.

See fitting instructions.

How do I order a catch?

Just fill in the contact form and in the message box type in your requirements and we will reply with the expected delivery time (usually two working days or next day if ordered before midday) we will invoice you with the goods.

Can I use the farm catch on metal farm gates?

Yes it works perfectly on metal gates of any length.

Will the gate always close in the middle

As long as the gate gets back to the centre it will always close, whether closed gently or slammed hard.

Should I embed the gate posts in concrete?

Whatever the type of gate, the posts should be set in concrete; especially if the gate is in constant use. Gates take a hammering so it's best to give the posts a good start and embed them in concrete so they don't move

Will my 16 ft wooden gate damage the catch

No we have a similar gate at the Durrell Wildlife Conservation Trust on the garden there with self closing hinges and it makes the ground shake when it closes but the catch is unaffected.

Can I paint the catches?

Yes. It's best to use a spray can that will stick to stainless steel. Using several light coats is best. We have found that in the USA, they tend to paint them black. The use of Hammerite is recommended but check the curing time as they may chip until the paint is hardened.

Should I lubricate the catch?

No. The catch is maintenance free. No need to do anything - just enjoy its robust construction and easy action. Think where else you could use one!

Can I fit the catch to metal posts?

Our catches will fit to any flat surface provided it can be drilled and bolted (10mm bolts or screws). They can also be welded to a metal post and this can be done using mild steel rods or mig wire. This will give a reasonably corrosion proof weld (for many years) due to the mixing of stainless and mild steel! However, if the post is ,it may be worth treating the weld with cold galvanise or Hammerite. Both will extend the life of the weld beyond where you will have to worry about it!

Will it fit my gate?

Yes - these catches fit all gates: big, small; metal or wood.

They will fit existing gates that close to the side of the post too, even though this restricts the opening to just one way. However, if the gate is to be erected, two way opening is possible by ensuring the hinges face inwards so the gate swings easily both ways. Leave a 50mm (two inch) gap between the other end of the gate and the corresponding gate post to fit the gatecatch. See fitting instructions

What fixings are needed for the catch?

We supply four stainless steel coach screws with the catch for fixing it to wooden posts.

Other fixings for the Equicatch are optional such as the one way conversion kit, the self-closing hinge and the Lifter

For the Gardencatch, there are a set of hinges available too.

Can I fit the catch on a one way gate?

Yes. We supply a one way adapter kit for one-way gates

Where do I fit the gatecatch on the post?

That's your choice. It should be where it is most comfortable to operate whether you are on foot, on a horse or in a wheelchair. A horse rider will position it near the top of the post so they don't have to lean too far to reach it whilst the wheelchair user will put it about 900mm above the ground. If the gate catch is to be operated by both horse riders and wheelchair users, then fitting it for wheelchair users should be the priority as the horse rider can be accommodated by fitting a lifter which is available as an accessory

What size gatepost is required?

The fixing holes for the Equicatch are 75mm (2.75 inches) apart adn will fit any standard 100mm (4 inch) post

 

The fixing holes for the Garden catch are 45mm (1.75 inches) apart

What Maintenance is needed?

The catch requires no maintenance. However, it is good practise to check the gate from time to time and adjust it to counter any "gate drop" before it starts to drag on the ground.

Will it fit on metal gates?

Yes - in fact, all our own livery gates are metal. That's what they were developed on. They work just as well on wooden and plastic ones too! you may want to fit our Farm catch though as it works every bit as well but is cheaper than the big cath.

My gate closes against a wall. Can I fit an Equine catch

Yes. For brick stone or concrete use a 10mm rawlbolt. Drill the wall using a 16mm drill bit and drill to a minimum of 65 mm, insert the treaded section into the hole and offer up the catch fixing with the rawl bolts. As walls are often uneven, screw each of the bolts until hand tight then ½ a turn at a time until they are tight (for the very technical minded 27Nm torque in concrete and 13Nm torque in brick).

What maintenance does the catch need?

None but you still have to regularly check your gate to maintain optimal use.

Can I weld the catch

Yes our catches can be welded using stainless or mild steel filler rods.

Are Jackson's Fencing catches the same as yours

Yes they are we supply Jackson's Fine Fencing