Blue Spot Tools Ironmongery 200mm Zinc Plated Tower Bolt 78008

Blue Spot Tools Ironmongery 200mm Zinc Plated Tower Bolt

MPN: 78008

Barcode: 5028734780086

Weight: 0.36kg

Overview:

The Blue Spot Tools 200mm tower bolt is made from carbon steel with a zinc plated finish, built for outdoor installation on heavy timber gates and large outbuilding doors. Its 200mm length provides a longer bolt throw, suited to heavier gate construction and larger door openings.

All fixings are included in the pack. The bolt carries a 5 year manufacturer guarantee from date of purchase.

Key Features and Benefits

• Carbon Steel Body: Provides the material strength needed for a larger, heavier outdoor bolt.
• Zinc Plated Finish: Shields the steel against outdoor weathering and corrosion.
• 200mm Bolt Length: Suited to heavier timber gates and doors where a longer bolt throw is required.
• Fittings Included: All hardware needed for installation is supplied in the pack.
• 5 Year Guarantee: Manufacturer guarantee provided.

Specs & Attributes

• Bolt Length: 200mm
• Material: Carbon steel
• Finish: Zinc plated
• Weight: 0.36kg

Typical Applications

• Heavy timber garden or driveway gates
• Barn and agricultural building doors
• Large outbuilding or garage access doors
• Workshop double doors
• Field or farm access gates
• Heavy shed doors on larger structures

How to Use

• Plan the Fixing Point: On larger gates, fix the bolt where the timber is at its thickest for maximum holding strength.

• Mark and Pre-Drill: Mark all screw positions and drill pilot holes. On hardwood or dense timber, pilot holes are especially important to avoid splitting.

• Mount the Bolt Body: Fix the bolt squarely to the gate face, ensuring it sits flat so the barrel runs horizontal.

• Locate the Keeper: Extend the bolt fully and mark the keeper position on the post or frame. The keeper must align squarely with the barrel to avoid binding.

• Test Before Final Fix: Screw the keeper loosely, check the bolt cycles smoothly, then fully tighten all fixings once satisfied with the action.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

• When should I use a 200mm tower bolt rather than a shorter size?
  A 200mm bolt is worth considering on heavier or thicker timber gates where more bolt engagement is needed. It also suits situations where the gate post stands slightly proud of the gate leaf, creating a longer reach between the bolt body and the keeper.

• How far should the bolt enter the keeper?
  As a general guide, the bolt should enter the keeper by at least half the barrel length. Greater engagement holds the gate more firmly against pressure or wind load.

• Can a tower bolt act as the sole fastening on a large gate?
  A tower bolt is an ironmongery latch - it holds a gate closed but provides no security against forced entry. On gates that need to resist forced opening, combine a tower bolt with a padlock and hasp.

• Why does my tower bolt sag or drop after a few months?
  Sagging is usually caused by fixing screws working loose over time, especially in softer timber. Check and retighten the screws periodically. Using a washer under the screw heads can help distribute the load and slow any movement.

• Are zinc plated bolts suitable for coastal or high-humidity locations?
  Zinc plating offers basic corrosion protection. In coastal or very exposed conditions, inspect the finish regularly. If corrosion starts to appear, replacement or upgrading to a stainless steel alternative is advisable.

Summary

The Blue Spot Tools 200mm zinc plated tower bolt suits heavy timber gates, barn doors, and larger outbuildings requiring a longer bolt throw. Carbon steel construction, zinc plated finish, all fixings included, and backed by a 5 year manufacturer guarantee.