Post Purchase Panic

June 11, 2020 0 Comments

Things You Ought to Know Before Buying your Parking Posts.

Todays’ blog “post” (sorry!) is all about the oft-forgotten parking post. Perhaps surprisingly, there are lots of different types of parking post. From retractable to lockable, and from “twist out” to “telescopic”, there are many various functions, finishes and fixings to consider. Follow our expert advice below to avoid a parking post pickle, and ensure you end up with the perfect post for the purpose…

The first thing you’ll want to know is which basic type of parking post fits your requirements as, if you don’t get the right type of post, you could encounter problems later.  If the post is intended to reserve a large area, or if you require an extra level of security, then it is a good idea to get one with a loop for optional chain attachment. Surrounding the reserved areas with chain joining the posts is a more economical choice as it reduces the need to purchase a large number of posts to surround the perimeter, as well as providing an extra deterrent for vehicle thieves or rogue parkers.

 

There are 4 main types of parking post, and these are:

Fixed
These are useful for when you want to permanently block or reserve access to an area, for example around footpaths.

Removable
These can be fully removed when not in use, leaving no obstructions for pedestrians – great for temporary usage.

Telescopic
Telescopic posts and be raised and lowered as required and, as they fit flush with the ground when not in use, they are ideal in both an aesthetic and practical sense, leaving no trip hazard.

Fold Down
Unlike telescopic posts, fold down models do not sit flush with the ground when retracted, however they have their benefits in that they are often easier to install and lower cost than other types.

 

One aspect to consider in order to avoid disaster is the size of your post. For example, if you choose an extra small post to be used for large vehicle parking, it is unlikely that drivers will be able to see it. If it is a fold-down post, check how high it is raised off the ground when lowered, and compare this against the minimum ground clearance beneath your vehicle. If the folded post is raised higher than your clearance allows, either the post or the vehicle is likely to be damaged as the vehicle drives over the top of it. All of our fold-down parking posts have the ground clearance listed, so make sure you check your requirements for this.

Another important distinction between different types of parking posts is that some have integral locks, and some can be used with a detachable padlock. The benefit using of integral locks is convenience, as there are no spare parts to remember. Detachable locks are usually sold separately, so you may want to purchase an add-on at checkout.

In a similar vein, the visibility of the post can be very important, not just in terms of height. Many posts are made with high visibility colours or stripes to ensure they are clearly seen by both drivers and pedestrians. This may be a particularly important consideration if the area in question is regularly used at night, or if it is in a very busy location.

If you invest in a post marked as weatherproof it will save you money in the long run. Unless the post is fully removable or rarely used, it is likely to be exposed to all weather conditions. If you buy a less than good quality post you may find yourself having to deal with the knock on effects of rust – repainting, replacing hinges, locks, and chains, or even having to buy a brand new post altogether if it becomes locked into position due to damage.

You may also wish to contemplate how the post is to be installed, and whether you have the correct tools and fixings for the job. The simplest option might be to hire someone to do the installation for you, or this can be done yourself as long as you’re confident you have the appropriate supplies. Most parking posts require some excavation to fit the ground spigot. Whether this is dug by hand or by machine depends entirely on the ground surface so make sure you check this out as a priority, before making any decisions. Usually, once the post has been placed in the ground, it will be secured at the base using concrete – always ensure this is left untouched for 48 hours so the concrete sets firmly.

Hopefully that’s just about covered everything you need to think about when shopping for a parking post, and our advice should help you to avoid a blunder! If you have any questions about any of our products or services, please don’t hesitate to contact us.