How-to part 3: What to expect in the installation process

Why is PalmSHIELD the most widely used and number one louvered architectural screen system? PalmSHIELD is the only manufacture that provides step-by-step installation instructions for installing posts, panels, and gates.

Now that you have read up on project expectations and pre-installation and tools needed, let’s learn the steps to the installation process.

INSTALLATION STEPS

It is best to install your PalmSHIELD system in a post, panel, post, panel order. It is not advised to try to set all of the posts first and then come back and install the panels.
Using the post base plate template provided with your order, use the template to align the first post to your site markings. Make sure the post base plate runs parallel to the run and it is not twisted. Mark the center of the anchor holes.
Set your anchors.
Select your first post based on the drawing. Posts are labeled in accordance with the drawing. You should verify if it is a corner, end, or gate post from the fabrication drawing. This can be identified based on the holes drilled in the post for attachment of the panels and gates
Set your first post. Make sure your post is plumb in all directions.
Select your first panel. You will need to identify it based on your fabrication drawings. These are numbered in accordance with the drawings on the bottom of the panels.
Align the panel to the post. Make sure the louvers are facing in the correct direction and the panel is not upside down. Some louvers are installed with restricting visibility from looking down so check your fabrication drawings for louver alignment.
Align the top of panel to top of post so that it is flush. Use bar clamps to attach panel to post.
Use wood blocking to shim under panel to hold alignment and level.
If necessary, use a universal joint, install the stainless steel machine screws or bolts through the panels and into the posts. Do not over tighten. Aluminum is a soft metal. The stainless steel machine screws will easily self-thread into the holes. However, if you over tighten or torque, you will quickly strip the aluminum. Use a screw gun with an adjustable clutch to better assure you do not strip.
Once the first panel is installed to the first post, select your second post based on your fabrication drawing. Repeat steps 5 – 9.
At gate opening, be sure to install gate posts as shown on the drawings. Be sure your openings (inside to inside of post) are accurate.
Gate installations will vary based on site conditions. You should consider the swing of the gate relative to the grade that it sweeps over and make sure that there is plenty of clearance. Look for steep rising slopes, adjoining equipment pads with a higher elevation and curbing.
Once you have determined the elevation of your gate, weld the remaining half of the gate hinge to the post. Align the gate hinge so the back of the barrel where it meets the plate is 3/8” in front of the post. In other words, there is a 3/8”gap between the barrel and the gate post.
Close the gate to the appropriate location. Lower the drop rod and mark the socket location. Repeat for the open position if necessary. For drop rod sockets, we recommend a 1 ½” hammer drill or core bit. You may have to trim the drop rod.
The internal locking device should not require any further installation. The keys are located in the hardware package.
PalmSHIELD includes touch-up paint. Closely inspect your installation for any chips or scratches. Hold the can 6” to 8” from the area to be painted and sweep across it until entirely covered. The paint will blend with the powder coated surface.

HARDWARE NOT INCLUDED

Post anchors are not included. Based on 4000 psi concrete, you may consider 5/8” x 6” epoxy anchors or 5/8” x 5 ½” wedge anchors. PalmSHIELD is not responsible for determining anchor type or installations. This should be determined by qualified individual based on site conditions.
Padlocks for locking devices.

For more information, contact our business today.