Smaka Metal | Trusted Fence Installation in Tucson, AZ

The primary cause is thermal expansion. In Tucson, summer temperatures can soar well over 100°F, causing metal to expand significantly. When the temperature drops at night, the metal contracts. This constant cycle of expansion and contraction puts stress on fence panels and gate frames, leading to warping, buckling, and misalignment. Smaka Metal addresses this by using materials with known expansion rates and designing in proper clearances and expansion gaps during fabrication.

Yes, it is very common in Tucson. As the gate frame expands and contracts with temperature changes, the alignment between the latch and the striker plate shifts. This can cause the latch to bind, stick, or fail to engage completely. Our solution is to fabricate gate latches with adjustable components and to install them with the necessary tolerances to accommodate seasonal movement. We also recommend using heavy-duty, corrosion-resistant latches designed for our climate.

We first inspect the gate to assess the damage. Often, we can realign the gate by adjusting the hinges and latch assembly. If the frame is warped, we may need to reinforce it with additional bracing or replace damaged sections. For severe cases, we fabricate a new custom gate that incorporates expansion gaps and robust materials from the start. Our goal is to provide a permanent fix that prevents the issue from recurring, saving you time and money in the long run.