How to fit a Safety Gate in your home

Safety gates are an essential piece of home safety equipment that really give peace of mind, as they prevent babies and toddlers from accessing dangerous areas and from climbing up and potentially falling down flights of stairs. However the safe and secure fitting of a safety gate is what’s really important, to ensure it can do its job properly and can keep your child safe and secure. Here are our top tips to help you install your safety gate effectively:

Measure the Opening

Measure the width of the opening where you plan to install the safety gate. Make sure to measure both the top and bottom of the opening, as they may vary slightly.

Choose the Right Gate

Select a safety gate that is appropriate for the opening's width. Most gates are adjustable to fit various sizes but ensure the gate you choose can span the opening comfortably, and install gate extensions if the gap is wider than the gate. Install the gate in a location that provides the most secure barrier. Typically, this is at the top and bottom of stairs and in doorways leading to potentially dangerous areas. However, avoid pressure fit safety gates at the top of stairs, as the bottom bar can be a dangerous trip hazard in this location.

Check the Wall Material

Determine the type of wall material you'll be attaching the gate to (e.g., wood, plasterboard, metal) and choose your gate accordingly. Use appropriate wall-plugs and screws that are suitable for the wall type. Some new build houses have weak plaster that may not support a screw fit gate well, so a pressure fit may be stronger. If properly installed and used, a pressure fit gate shouldn’t result in any damage to the walls or require repairs after use, except for a small paint touch up due to scuffing.

Mark the Installation Points & Pre-Drill Holes

Use a level to ensure that the gate will be installed evenly. Mark the points where you will attach brackets or other mounting hardware. Pre-drill holes for screws or anchors to prevent damage to the wall or doorframe and make installation easier. Always fit wall cups when supplied with a gate.

Test the Gate & Adjust for Tension

After installation, test the gate to make sure it opens and closes smoothly and locks securely. Check for any wobbling or instability. If your gate uses a pressure or tension system, adjust it according to the instructions to ensure a secure fit. Test the tension regularly to ensure it remains secure.

Maintain the Gate

Periodically check the gate for any loose screws or hardware. Make adjustments as needed, to maintain its stability and safety.

Supervise Your Child & Remove the Gate When No Longer Needed

No safety gate is a substitute for parental supervision. Always keep an eye on your child, especially when they are near a safety gate. Once your child has outgrown the need for a safety gate, remove it to avoid accidents and damage to your walls or doorframes.

View our range of Safety Gates:

At Clippasafe, we stock a range of safety gates from tension fit to screw fix. You can view them here:

Swing Shut Extendable Gate: https://www.clippasafe.co.uk/products/swing-shut-extendable-gate-silver-metal-wood

Dual Fix Wooden Gate: https://www.clippasafe.co.uk/products/swing-shut-extendable-gate-silver-metal-wood-1

Swing Shut Extendable Gate: https://www.clippasafe.co.uk/products/swing-shut-extendable-gate-white-metal

Extendable No Tip Gate: https://www.clippasafe.co.uk/products/extendable-no-trip-gate-white-metal

We also have extension pieces when bigger gates are needed. See our full range here: https://www.clippasafe.co.uk/shop/home-safety/safety-gates