Terms and conditions - Gates and railings.
1.General
If you have any comments or complaints regarding our website, personnel, or products, please contact us through the website.
Jeffrey Fabrication Ltd retains the authority to amend these terms and conditions without prior notification. The customer is responsible for reviewing these terms and conditions and any subsequent modifications prior to placing an order.
2.Orders
The majority of products offered by the company are bespoke in nature. Therefore, all orders placed are governed by the established terms and conditions outlined herein. Should there be any uncertainties regarding these stipulations, potential customers are encouraged to seek clarification using the provided contact information.
All supply only orders are accepted solely based on the dimensions and specifications supplied by the customer. While the company can offer guidance on optimal design and various other factors, the responsibility for the final measurements rests exclusively with the customer. The company commits to manufacturing gates and products in accordance with the specified sizes; however, it disclaims any liability should the measurements be inaccurately provided for the intended property.
For all supply and installation orders we take responsibility for the sizes being taken and confirmed.
It is imperative to note that all custom-made orders are deemed non-returnable. Acceptance of an order is predicated on the assumption that the customer has duly familiarised themselves with these terms and conditions.
3.Lead Times
Custom and bespoke orders necessitate a considerably extended processing period. While an indicative lead time will be communicated at the point of order placement, it should be noted that this timeframe is contingent upon the specific product specifications.
It is essential to acknowledge that numerous factors influencing the production process may be beyond our control. Therefore, customers seeking precise lead times prior to placing an order are encouraged to make direct contact for clarification.
For custom orders, typical lead times generally range from 2-12 weeks. Nonetheless, in the event of exceptional circumstances, there exists a possibility that certain orders may surpass the 12 week threshold.
For clients who require expedited delivery, we recommend contacting us directly; it may be feasible to arrange a priority fabrication slot. It is important to note that this expedited service might incur additional pre-agreed fees.
4. Installation Warranty
For installations carried out by Jeffrey Fabrication Ltd, we also offer a one year’s parts and labour warranty on all components separate to the finish and construction warranty.
We install posts and pillars in substantial foundations but cannot Guarantee the ground conditions they are set into. Our warranty excludes any movement due to heave slump or subsidence affecting the surrounding ground.
It is imperative to acknowledge that we accept no liability for incorrectly installed automation products. The commissioning and subsequent installation of automated gates require meticulous attention to safety protocols to mitigate the risk of injury. The individual or organisation responsible for the installation of the automation and commissioning of the setup bears the sole responsibility for the final sign-off on gate safety.
5.Cancellations & Returns
It is essential to acknowledge that made-to-measure or bespoke orders cannot be cancelled once the deposit payment has been completed.
6.Warranty
The warranty explicitly excludes coverage for galvanising, powder coating, and any occurrences of rust. This delineation of coverage parameters is essential for establishing clear expectations regarding the longevity and maintenance requirements of the manufactured metalwork.
Powder Coating
Products are guaranteed for 1 year under the following conditions;
That the products coated are not exposed to continuous emission sources which are known or believed to be damaging or corrosive to thermosetting Powder Coatings.
Mechanical damage and breakage in the film layer must be repaired within 24 hours with an approved Two-pack polyurethane touch up system.
All products are cleaned at Three monthly intervals commencing with the date of installation at the premises. That the owner uses a mild detergent and warm water on all surfaces using a clean, soft cloth or clean sponge but nothing harsher than a natural bristle brush. If, however, heavy soiling occurs, more regular cleaning will be required. Records of cleaning to be maintained dated and signed. Do not under any circumstances use solvents or solutions containing:
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Chlorinated Hydrocarbons/solvents
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Esters
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Ketones
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Abrasive cleaners or Polish
This guarantee is given for coated products exposed under “normal” environmental conditions considered as non-hazardous; these are locations where the local conditions do not adversely affect the properties of the Powder-coated film, e.g. rural or typical urban environments. Jeffrey Fabrication Ltd will not guarantee Powder Coated products within 7000 meters of the following “hazardous” environments.
Hazardous Environments
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Marine: Coastal shoreline, estuaries and tidal rivers areas which are strongly affected by salt laded atmospheres.
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Industrial: Any location of a source of solid, liquid or gaseous pollution that may cause the degrading of the Powder Coating
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Swimming and Leisure Pools: As a result of high humidity and chemical build-up.
Galvanising
In cases where the metal gate has been galvanised, users can expect an extensive service life devoid of rust. Should any chipping or scratching occur in the paint or powder-coated finish, users are advised to touch up affected areas with appropriate metal paint. In instances where damage has compromised the galvanised layer, it becomes the customer’s responsibility to address this matter. The recommended procedure involves abrading the damaged area followed by the application of galvanised spray (which can be procured online, from our establishment, or from local DIY retailers). Subsequent to the spray drying, touch-up with metal paint or spray paint is necessary. For further enquiries, we encourage customers to contact us for guidance.
We wish to expressly state that we will not accept liability for minor rust formations arising from the aforementioned conditions. The responsibility to rectify such issues lies with the customer. Any unprotected areas due to damage, chipping, or scratching will also fall under customer liability. It is pertinent to mention that, occasionally, small surface discolourations resembling rust may occur as a result of the galvanisation process or surface contaminants—especially on gates without powder coating. Such discolourations are purely cosmetic and do not impede the functional performance of the steel.
Furthermore, we disclaim any liability for damage resulting from improper product use or abuse. Examples of this include gates subjected to slamming by wind, unauthorised repairs by third parties, or acts of vandalism.
Working Parts (locks, Hinges, Gate keeps, Drop bolts etc)
These items are guaranteed for a duration of one year. This warranty reflects a commitment to quality and reliability, ensuring that any defects in materials or workmanship will be addressed within the specified timeframe. It is imperative that users adhere to the guidelines for usage and maintenance as outlined in the accompanying documentation to preserve the validity of this guarantee. Should issues arise within the warranty period, appropriate procedures must be followed to facilitate the resolution process, including return, repair, or replacement of the affected items. Such measures are taken to ensure optimal performance and client satisfaction.
7. What is not covered under the warranty
Damage resulting from severe weather conditions, categorised as acts of God, is typically covered under the homeowner’s insurance policy. This coverage is analogous to claims made for similar structural damage, such as that incurred by a roof during a storm. It is important to note that our company is prepared to provide estimates and undertake repairs for damages covered under insurance claims.
Abuse and Vandalism
However, instances of abuse and vandalism fall outside the realm of coverage. Examples of such damage include, but are not limited to, gates that have been left unsecured and thus permitted to slam repeatedly in high winds. Additionally, the actions of children, such as jumping or swinging on gates, can introduce excessive stress to structural components, leading to deterioration. Furthermore, damage inflicted by sports balls or toys is excluded from warranty coverage.
Fading
Over time, both paint and powder coating are susceptible to degradation, primarily due to prolonged exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun. This phenomenon is well-documented and represents a normal aspect of material ageing. The photo degradation process results in a gradual loss of colour and sheen, a condition that, while inevitable, typically manifests over an extended duration, often exceeding a decade.
It is imperative to note that, although this fading cannot be entirely mitigated, remedial measures such as touch-up applications can restore the finish’s original aesthetic qualities. The timeline for such interventions generally occurs after substantial wear, providing a practical means of maintaining the appearance of the coated surfaces over their lifespan.
Composite Infills
Composite infills represent a manufactured product derived from recycled materials. Characterised by their weather resistance and durability, composite infills are designed to provide extended periods of functionality with minimal maintenance requirements. It is essential to note. However, that composite material may exhibit fading as a result of prolonged exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light and various environmental conditions. Furthermore, these materials can deteriorate under conditions of misuse or abuse, leading to potential compromises in their structural integrity.
An important consideration is that composite materials fall outside the purview of warranty coverage, necessitating careful handling to mitigate degradation. Despite these considerations, the affordability of composite infills is notable; they may be renewed or replaced as necessary, facilitated by the specific design of the accompanying frames. Additionally, composite infills possess the potential to be repainted, provided appropriate coatings are applied, thus extending their usability and aesthetic appeal. While composite infills offer several advantages, a comprehensive understanding of their limitations and maintenance requirements is crucial for optimal application.
Scratching/Chipping-
If your gate has a scratch or chip, it is important to address the damage promptly to maintain both aesthetic and structural integrity. Touching up such imperfections is straightforward and can be executed with minimal difficulty. Please do not hesitate to ask for professional assistance if you require guidance on the appropriate methods and materials for this repair. Our team is equipped to provide the necessary advice to ensure a successful restoration of your gate’s surface.
8. Maintenance
In the context of timber infill applications, it is essential to acknowledge the inherent properties of wood, particularly its propensity for expansion and contraction in response to fluctuations in moisture content within the environment. This biological characteristic may result in increased mechanical stress on the fixings and screws that secure the structure, potentially leading to a gradual loosening of these fasteners over time.
To mitigate the effects of this phenomenon, it is advisable to periodically assess the stability of the fixings throughout the lifecycle of the gates. Utilising a manual pozi head screwdriver, one should proceed to hand-tighten each fixing screw from the rear, ensuring that excessive force is not applied during this process. Over tightening is unnecessary and may inadvertently compromise the integrity of the timber or the fastening system itself. This maintenance practice will aid in preserving the timber infill’s structural integrity and operational functionality, thus prolonging its lifespan and performance.
Working Parts/Moving Parts
The operational characteristics of our products inherently involve multiple moving components, resulting in a ‘metal on metal’ interaction. This interaction generates friction, which consequently leads to a natural phenomenon known as wear and tear. To mitigate the effects of friction and prolong the lifespan of these working parts, it is recommended that grease be systematically applied to hinges and drop bolts.
For instance, when drop bolts or sliding bolts are frequently used, the powder-coated finish will inevitably degrade over time. Such wear is expected due to the operational demands placed on these components. While customers may address this deterioration through touch-up applications, it is imperative to note that the finish on these working parts does not fall under any warranty provisions. The lack of coverage pertains to the inherent nature of their function, which subjects them to repetitive mechanical stresses.
In summary, the anticipated wear due to operational friction is a standard aspect of product performance, and appropriate maintenance measures, such as the application of grease, are strongly advised to sustain functionality and minimise aesthetic degradation.
The Finish On The Gates Moving/Working Parts
Over time, moving components such as hinge pins, latches, and sliding bolts are subject to wear resulting from frictional forces. This phenomenon is a standard consequence of mechanical operation and is not preventable. To mitigate this degradation, periodic touch-ups with galvanising spray or matching powder coat spray paint are advisable.
The powder coating process is recognised for its durability and provides superior protection for gates and similar structures when applied over a galvanised base layer. It is pertinent to acknowledge that the finishes on moving or operational parts, including but not limited to hinges, drop bolts, and latches, are excluded from warranties due to their inherent susceptibility to wear and tear. Consequently, the onus of maintaining these components rests with the customer. Regular maintenance, such as annual touch-ups, is recommended to preserve their functional integrity
By proceeding with orders thereafter, customers acknowledge and accept these terms and conditions, thereby establishing a legal obligation regarding these stipulations.