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FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions

Here at For Outdoors, we understand that making a purchase can be confusing and that you may have some questions that you would like answered before making a purchase.

Therefore using our past experience, and based upon questions that we have been asked in the past, we have put this FAQ section together to try and answer most of the questions you might have about our products.

While we have tried to answer the most popular questions, it would be impossible to cover and answer every question here. So if after reading this FAQ section you still have any questions, then please do not hesitate to give us a call on 0800 246 5801, or via email support@foroutdoors.co.uk, or by filling in the form on our Contact Us Page where we will be more than happy to answer them.

  • Garden Furniture

    Frequently asked questions about our garden furniture

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    What is Teak?

    Teak (Tectona Grandis) is a genus of tropical hardwood native to South & Southeast Asia. The trees can grow up to 40 meters in height and are deciduous. As one of this world's finest woods, Teak has been used for centuries to build ships, outdoor structures and garden furniture.

    Where does Your Teak come from?

    This is a very good and important question and something you need to be aware of making your choice.

    Most of the world's teak is sourced from renewable plantations in Indonesia. These teak plantations were first planted by the Dutch in the 1600s who held the colonial power at the time. In recent times these plantations have since been taken over and tightly owned and managed by the Indonesian Government, who are responsible for managing a strict policy regarding the size and quantity of trees felled each year together with annual replanting.

    So hopefully you can see that the source of teak is very important in our world today, as there are people, companies and countries that are exploiting non-renewable forests. So please choose carefully.

    Is all Teak furniture the same?

    The simple answer is no, not all teak wood is the same. The outer (white) teak is softer and should not be used. The inner mature teak is what the best furniture is made from. Teak should be kiln dried which dries the wood to the core and therefore is less likely to crack - unlike air dried teak which will retain up to 25% moisture.

    The highest quality of teak garden furniture is machined made and machined finished. Machine made and finished furniture is more uniform in finish and therefore because of the extra finishing is more expensive. Normally this highest quality teak (otherwise known as 'A' Grade) would as a guide cost 3 or 4 times the price of good quality teak furniture that most people sell.

    Wood and Moisture?

    All wood in growing trees contains considerable quantities of water, commonly called sap. Most of this water should be removed in order to obtain satisfactory service from the wood in use. All wood gains loose moisture in an attempt to reach a state of balance with the condition under which it is stored or used.

    To this end all the teak timber used in our furniture is kiln dried before construction so as to minimise the swelling and contracting of the furniture.

    Why is teak the best wood to use for garden furniture?

    Our teak furniture is made from teak which is one of the world's most valuable timbers providing durability and stability under extreme climatic conditions. Teak is a densely grained wood which makes it exceptionally strong, durable and resistant to rotting and warping with or without treatment.

    Teak is also packed with its own natural oils which produce a smooth weather resistant wood perfect for quality garden furniture, which when combined with good workmanship, has a life expectancy of up to 75 years - even when left untreated.

    Furniture Joints?

    Some of our furniture does come with bolts, but these go through mortise and tendon joints which are stronger than just dowelled joints.

    The thickness of the teak is generally much greater than other hardwoods making our products even more robust. Our teak furniture is built for endurance, made out of the most durable timber.

    Does your furniture require assembling?

    Some pieces like coffee tables, folding tables and folding chairs, some benches, steamer chairs are supplied fully assembled whilst the rest of our range of teak furniture will need minor assembling, in which case instructions are supplied either inside or outside of each carton.

    What to expect with my Teak Furniture?

    Natural teak if left outdoors will gradually weather to a lovely silver grey colour. This typically can take between 6 to 9 months depending on the amount of sun and rain it has been subjected to.

    During the normal weathering process small cracks (known as checking) or splits may appear, this is a characteristic of all hardwood timbers and is perfectly normal and will not affect the strength or durability of the furniture. Checking is due to changes in the seasons and the wood releasing or drawing moisture from the atmosphere and is not to be considered as a defect.

    Teak is an investment and if looked after it should provide you with many years of use.

    Does Teak require a lot of caring and maintenance?

    The simple answer is no - your teak does not really need much caring or maintenance for you to enjoy it. Teak by its nature is meant to be left outdoors all year round. If you decide to leave out all year round then the teak itself will weather over time to a nice lovely silver grey colour.

    If you prefer your furniture to keep its original colour then you need to oil or preserve your furniture before putting furniture outdoors. This is very much a personal choice but treating your teak furniture with teak oil or other preservatives is not necessary and will not extend the life of your furniture - it is purely cosmetic. If you would like to treat your teak furniture - you must do this BEFORE putting furniture outdoors, so, therefore, make sure that you completely oil your furniture indoors (or somewhere no outside air can get to it) and allow to dry for a couple of days before placing outside.

    Once weathering has started and your furniture has started to change colour, the longer you leave it to weather, the harder it is to return to its original colour. Should you prefer to return its original colour, remove previous oil or dirt by vigorous scrubbing or using a pressure hose. The pressure hose should be held at a distance of 6 to 8 feet away, set at about 1000psi (approximately 70 bar) and then rubbing with fine sandpaper in the direction of the grain.

    Once you have completed the above process make sure that the furniture is then returned to indoors (away from outside air) and allow the furniture to completely dry out before applying any Teak oil or preserve. Teak oil should not be applied over accumulated dirt as this will result in darkening of your teak furniture.

    Do I need to store my furniture away during the winter?

    This depends on whether you have oiled or preserved your teak before putting outdoors.

    Yes - if you have treated your furniture. At the end of the summer, you should bring indoors and follow or guidance under care and maintenance.

    No - if you have decided to let your teak furniture to weather. Teak furniture can be left outdoors all year round. If you choose to cover your furniture outdoors during the winter then you should use a material that allows the wood to breathe. We recommend you don't use plastic.

    Go-Karts

    Frequently asked questions about our Berg/Dino go-karts

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    What age are go-karts meant for?

    With the range of suppliers that we deal with, and the range of go-karts on offer, you children can start riding a go-kart from 2 years old... and go right up to 99 years if you fancy it.

    Which is the best make to go for?

    Here at For Outdoors, we have built up over the years very good relationships with our go-kart suppliers/manufacturers, including the top two suppliers in the world. The one thing they all have in common is that their go-karts are built to the highest quality using the latest technology available and to the highest safety standards that can be expected - so in short, they are all basically the same and your choice will come down to what you want your go-kart to do, and the way it looks.

    Why are go-karts so expensive?

    Over the years the top go-kart manufacturers have spent a lot of money developing their go-karts and making sure that you, the customer, can be safe in the knowledge that when you buy a go-kart it has been well thought out for quality and safety.

    You basically are paying for a top-quality build, and a safe outdoor toy, that has been finished to the highest standard and is something that should last your child for many years to come. When you look at the price and quality and then think how long these brilliant go-karts will last for, in the long run, it really isn't an expensive purchase and over the years will represent very good value for money purchase.

    What should I look for in a go-kart?

    This really does depend on what you what to use your go-kart for. Each manufacturer offers a range of different go-karts, that all have their own special functions. But one thing you should start at looking at is 'does the go-kart have adjustable seating'. This is always a good starting point because if it does then it means that a wide range of people will be able to use it.

    Next you should look to see if it has a fixed gear or multi-gear. Most offer a choice of 3 gears on some go-karts. One other thing to look out for is the tyres on the go-kart. Some are meant for just the path, roads or grass while others offer the option to go off-road too.

    Look out for the icons that you will find on each product. This is a good way to tell what each go-kart has to offer.

    Are the seats adjustable?

    On some go-karts, mainly the bigger versions, then yes they are. This means that the age range of the person using the go-kart is much bigger and not restricted.

    Generally speaking if the go-kart has an adjustable seat, then the go-kart can be used by anyone between the ages of 8 and 99... if they are fit enough.

    The other obvious advantage of having an adjustable seat is that as your child grows, then it is still possible for them to continue using the go-kart. Whereas with a fixed seat you are rather limited to how long they might be able to use the go-kart.

    Do the go-karts need any assembling?

    This all depends on which go-kart you choose. Generally speaking, go-karts for the younger children will come already made up, whereas the go-karts for the older children (8+) will require some minor assembling. This shouldn't be a problem as the assembling is straight forward by following the supplied instructions.

    Can you accessorize a go-kart?

    Yes you can. There are many accessories available to make the go-kart more independent and special.

    Can you get spare parts for the go-karts?

    The one thing that we like about selling go-karts is that all our suppliers/manufacturers offer spare parts for their own go-karts. This means that if for some reason you do encounter a problem with your go-kart, a new part is not far away and can be with you fairly quickly so that you can be up and running again in no time at all.

    What sort of warranty come with your go-karts?

    All the go-karts that we sell come with a minimum guarantee of 1 year and in the case of some, 2 years and 5 years on the frame - all subject to fair usage. Please check each go-karts warranty on it's product page as warranties do vary. Also please see our warranty page.

    What are the delivery times for your go-karts?

    The delivery time of your new go-kart varies from manufacturer to manufacture and also on the delivery companies that these companies use.

    Generally speaking your go-kart should be delivered between 3 - 5 working days, but please allow up to 10 working days for delivery. Please rest assured that every effort will be made to get your order to you as soon as possible as your order is received.. Please see our deliveries page for more information.

    What is CE marking?

    CE marking is a mandatory legal conformity requirement for all products sold within the European Union that fall within the scope of a CE marking directive.

    By affixing a CE marking to a product and signing the Declaration of Conformity, a product supplier is declaring to the EU authorities that the requirements of all applicable directives have been met. Depending on the directive, the involvement of a European Union ‘Notified Body’ may be mandatory for certain types of products.

    What is TUV approved?

    TÜVs (Short for German: Technischer Überwachungs-Verein, English: Technical Inspection Association) are German organizations that work to validate the safety of products of all kinds to protect humans and the environment against hazards. As independent consultants, they examine plants, motor vehicles, energy installations, amusement rides, devices and products (e.g. consumer goods) which require monitoring.

    The many subsidiaries of the TÜVs can also act as project developers for energy and traffic concepts, as problem solvers in environmental protection, and as certification bodies.

    Many of the TÜV organizations also provide certification for various international standards, such as ISO9001:2008 (quality management system) and ISO/TS16949 (automotive quality management system).

    Berg go-karts Show all Hide all

    What are the different type of hubs?

    The BFR hub means that the go-kart can be driven forwards, backwards and be stopped all by the use of one pedal

    The BFR-3 hub is the same as the BFR version go-kart but with the addition of 3 gears making it easier to use, and to gain a higher speed when pedalling

    Dino go-karts Show all Hide all

    What are the different type of hubs?

    The F hub (forward) has been designed primarily for use in the commercial market as a 'strong and very reliable' Forward Only drive

    The AF hub (automatic freewheel) allows driving forward and backwards without manual switching

    The BF1 hub (freewheel brake), with back brake and reverse gear, allows driving forward and backwards without further changes. The integrated back-pedalling brake ensures especially safe and comfortable stopping

    The BF3 hub (free-wheel brake with a three-gear switch) allows driving forwards and backwards without further changing of gears. Here, the integrated back-pedalling brake ensures especially safe and comfortable stopping. The three gears allow correct gear transmission - also off-road

    Metal Detectors

    Frequently asked questions about our metal detectors

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    What is meant by Motion and Non-Motion?

    Motion detectors first started to arrive on the market in the early 1980's. Before this, all metal detectors were 'non-motion'. If you think of tuning a radio to your favourite radio station, you may occasionally have to re-tune it because it may have drifted off the station. This applies to non-motion detectors. As you scan the ground, the tuning may slightly drift from where originally set, but very easily brought back to the correct level.

    Motion metal detectors are self-tuning; once switched ON, they are continuously re-adjusting themselves for optimum operation. The metal detector search head has to be kept moving or scanning the ground in order to detect metal, the moment movement is stopped, metal detection stops, hence the word MOTION.

    The big advantage with this principle is that they are extremely simple to use and operate. Secondly, because of their sophisticated electronics, they are not affected as greatly by mineralised ground as non-motion metal detectors and therefore the penetration is greater. Also better discrimination is achieved without significant loss of depth.

    What does the Discrimination Control do?

    The Discrimination control allows iron, silver paper and other rubbish items to be ignored by the metal detector, while still detecting gold, silver, copper and other non-ferrous metals. The higher the control is set, the more objects will be ignored. Be careful not to set it too high though, as you may find yourself rejecting good targets.

    For example when the control is set at maximum only the most conductive targets, copper and silver, will be detected. As gold jewellery is usually alloyed with a lower quality metal it would be rejected in this case. With experience you will learn the best place to set your discrimination control.

    When starting out we recommend you set it reasonably low, as it is better to dig a few trash items than to risk ignoring potentially valuable targets.

    Why is it not possible to only find good items?

    Unfortunately a metal detector is not able to distinguish items as being 'worthless' or 'valuable'. It can however determine the conductivity of an object. Objects of low conductivity, such as iron, can easily be distinguished from a silver or copper object, which has high conductivity. The problem occurs in the so-called 'grey' area in-between.

    For example a 9-carat gold ring and a ring pull can appear very similar to a metal detector as they have a very similar conductivity

    What is Target ID?

    Target ID is the metal detectors way of displaying the identity of a target in the form of a number.

    This complements the discrimination control by giving you the information the metal detector uses when it makes the decision whether or not an object should be detected. This allows you to determine accurately an objects conductivity, giving a strong clue as to its identity. On metal detectors with a discrimination control it was only possible to determine whether an object was more or less conductive than a chosen value.

    For example, if the discrimination control was set half way and an object was found, it would not be possible to tell whether it were a pound coin or a silver shilling. Target ID will give you this information as the shilling would be more conductive so a higher number would be displayed.

    This information is presented in two ways. Firstly a bar is shown when an object is detected. If the object is of low quality, iron or steel, only one or two segments will be shown.

    For a very good object, for example a silver shilling, the bar will fill up completely. This provides a very quick way of identifying the object. For more accurate identification, the Target ID number shows the point on the discrimination control at which each target would be rejected.

    As an example, a modern 5 pence piece would only just be rejected when the discrimination control is set somewhere between 50 and 60. When detected, the bar will fill up half way and the number '55' is shown.

    How deep will a Viking Metal Detector detect?

    This is an obvious question, but one that can be difficult to answer.

    Firstly the larger the metal object is, then the deeper it will be detected, e.g. an old pre-decimal penny will be detected deeper than a new decimal penny, simply because it is a larger metal object.

    Secondly, the length of time the object has been in the ground the shape of the item and how it lies in the ground can have an effect. Rings or loop shaped objects lying parallel to the search head produce excellent results for detection.

    Thirdly, heavy mineralised ground can reduce the penetration of your detector. Taking all this into account and dependent on which VIKING model is used, single coins will be found anywhere between 10cm (4 inch) to 22.5cm (9 inch) with larger objects up to 1 metre (39 inch).

    What is the purpose of the Sensitivity Control?

    The sensitivity control increases or decreases the metal detectors depth penetration in the Motion mode.

    Obviously, one wants to detect as deep as possible, but there may be times when the metal detector gives false signals or behaves in an erratic manner. This could be due to bad ground or some electrical interference from power lines or transmitters etc. In these circumstances, backing off the sensitivity level should help to achieve reliable operation.

    Are Viking Metal Detectors difficult to operate?

    Simple answer, NO.

    Our lower priced Non-Motion Metal Detectors are easily set or tuned to the correct level for correct operation. Our top of the range motion detectors are even easier, because of the more sophisticated electronics, automatically tunes the detector for you.

    Obviously all our metal detectors come with full operating instructions and remember our customer services are only a phone call away or email.

    What is meant by Mineralisation or Ground Effect?

    The ground contains quantities of iron oxides of which some soils are more prolific than others. These oxides have built up over many centuries on land mainly worked and farmed by humans. Other land can contain magnetic iron oxides, which are naturally present in the ground.

    Metal detectors are affected by this ground mineralisation which is referred to as ground effect. Beaches also have an effect on the detector caused by the electrical conductivity of salt water.

    Can I use a Viking Metal detector on the beach as well as inland?

    Using your metal detector on dry sand is exactly the same as using it on an inland site. However, wet sand is different, being known as conductive.

    Many thousands of non-motion metal detectors, like our Viking 1, 5 or 6, have been used continuously on beaches with fantastic success.

    Some makes of powerful motion metal detectors are rendered useless on wet sand, because they give false signals or indications of metal, when there is nothing there. Our VK20 & 30 both feature a beach mode providing reliable performance on the beach.

    What does the Membrane Keypad operate?

    Featured on the VK40 the membrane keypad provides an alternative method of setting up the detector to the traditional rotary controls and switches. All the functions are controlled from the 5 keys provided. A single key press allows the detection mode to be selected, and the Discrimination, Sensitivity and Ground settings can be adjusted using a simple menu system.

    What does the Detector Display show?

    The Liquid Crystal Display provides a wealth of useful features. Target ID provides a visual indication of the target identity, and the display also shows at a glance which mode the detector is operating in.

    On the VK20 and VK30 the display shows the control setting as they are adjusted, and the VK40 features a larger display allowing the detector set-up menu to be used. The display also provides a continuous battery check.

    Outdoor TVs

    Frequently asked questions about our outdoor TVs

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    What is supplied with my TV Screen?

    Included in the box are, wall bracket, detachable speakers, 3 metre long cable loom, remote control unit, replacement vent filters, the instruction manual and a 1 year return to base warranty.

    What is IP66 rated?

    IP66 is a rating that defines the ability to keep out foreign objects. The IP stands for Ingress (the act of entering) Protection.

    An IP66 rated enclosure is "dust tight" and protected against heavy seas or powerful jets of water.

    This is defined as:

    Action: Water projected in powerful jets (12.5 mm nozzle) against the enclosure from any direction shall have no harmful effects
    Test duration: At least 3 minutes
    Water volume: 100 litres per minute
    Pressure: 100 kPa at distance of 3 m
    How deep is the bracket that holds the TV to the wall?

    For screen sizes 26" – 55" it’s 40mm and for the 65" screen and above it's 45mm deep.

    Does the screen contain a media player?

    There is a lockable space in the bottom of the screen where you can insert both a USB and an SD Card. A function on the remote control allows you to play your media content on a continuous loop compatible with all file formats (excluding DivX without conversion.)

    How do your screens with in-built PC work?

    With the addition of the in-built PC, they’ll allow you to update and refresh your content via the Internet from anywhere in the world. Control a single screen or multiple screens – all from the comfort of your desk.

    Can the screen be used in portrait as well as landscape?

    All of our TV screens can be placed either horizontally or vertically.

    Are your outdoor TV screens vandal-proof?

    To a point, yes. They are fitted with a with a laminated, toughened 6mm anti-reflective glass, 3mm steel casing/bezel and come with security wall fixings to make the installation even more robust.

    What other models are available in the your range?

    Also available across our range are models which feature an in-built Wi-Fi enabled PC, this allows you to update your content remotely, from any location in real-time. These screens can also be fitted to become touch-screen models giving you complete touch-panel freedom when interacting with your content. They’re just like using a large tablet computer!

    Do I get a warranty with your products?

    All of our TV screens are supplied with a 1 year (return-to-base) warranty. This covers all parts and all labour. Extended warranties are available upon request.

    Can I not just put a regular TV in some kind of outdoor casing or housing?

    Our range of Outdoor TVs are not to be confused with a TV housing for a conventional TV. Our products are purposefully designed and built to withstand extreme conditions. When you receive your TV, all you need to do is unbox, mount the bracket and screen, power-up and the job is done. Due to their nature, our screens are regularly left on and outside 24/7.

    Issues arising from putting a TV in a box can include un-safe and un-tidy cabling, picture distortion as a result of having two reflective surfaces, the screen overheating and substantial condensation due to poor air-circulation, as well as the bulk associated with placing a TV in an external casing. Some external cases can be more than 8” deep. Our screens start from 93mm deep.

    You get everything you need with our range of all weather outdoor TVs, it's all in the box. Our products come complete with an integral/internal heating and cooling system, wall mounting bracket, external speakers and a 3-metre long cable-loom. All of these things remove any additional hassle and mean that the TV screen is quick and easy to install.

    Do you supply screens in other colours?

    Would you like white for a yacht or a complimentary green for the garden? We can supply any screen in pretty much any colour. Or if you have a specific RAL code and we'll match that. We can finish either the TV bezel or the entire TV front and back. Please ask us for details and for an estimate, it’s not as expensive as you might think.

    Do you hold stock?

    Almost all of our key-lines shown here on our website are stock items, having stock is often what sets us apart from our competitors, and if we don’t have an item, we can usually get it within a couple of days.

    Zip Wires

    Frequently asked questions about our zip wires

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    Is zip wire equipment safe?

    All the zip wire equipment that we sell is very safe if installed and used correctly. The equipment has been fully tested for safety and not only do they comply with, but they also meet and exceed, all necessary required European Safety standards.

    I want to build a zip wire run for my children, which one do you advise to use?

    This is a difficult one to answer.

    Basically there is a choice of two types of zip wires that can be used by children depending on their age and the size of the children. The junior zip wire has been specifically designed for light to medium use by younger children between the ages of 6 -9 years old and with a max weight of 57kgs (9 stone).

    Then there is the adult zip wire which is of a better build and quality zip wire which is ideal for both domestic or commercial use and can be used by all members of the family.

    Are there any recommended ages for using a zip wire?

    Our recommendation for ages would be between 5 and 9 years old for the Junior zip wire and with the garden or commercial zip wires we would suggest an age of 5+.

    It is important to remember that any zip wire being used by children should ideally be supervised by an adult at all times.

    What is the difference between all the kits?

    Well let's start with the 10mm kits. You will notice that there are three types of kits to suit all requirements - tree to tree, tree to support or support to support.

    Then within those kits you will then find a choice of trolleys, hence Bronze, Gold, Platinum and Pro, some with additional accessories like a handle grip too - Pro Plus. Generally speaking the more the price of your kit, the better quality of trolley and the quicker the trolley.

    Now moving up to the 12mm kits and although these are basically the same as their 10mm equivalents, the main differences are the increased size of the wire, an uprated and upgraded spring brake (the spring being a bit stiffer and the fixing plate being much bigger and stronger) and finally an adjustable lanyard as opposed to a fixed one.

    My garden/field is on a slope. Can I still install a zip wire?

    Ideally zip wires at home are best installed on flat ground but with some consideration can be built on a slope.

    You will need to be careful when working out you various heights at both the receiving and sending ends so that your run does not bottom out half way down the run.

    If in any doubt we are happy to discuss this with you - please call us on: 0800 246 5801.

    I have enough room to install a zip wire more than 100m long. Can I still install a zip wire?

    Yes you can.

    We sell a range of zip wires with lengths up to and exceeding 250+m.

    Can we suggest that if you are planning to build a zip wire more than 100m long, that you call us first to discuss your plans.

    I have a number of trees in the garden, can these be used to support the zip wire?

    Yes trees in the garden are a good way of supporting a zip wire provided that you follow a few simple rules: Make sure that you are happy with the standard of the trees you are wanting to use. You need to have a clear line of sight between the two trees that you wish to use and enough clearance of approx 2m either side of the centre line.

    You need to take into account the type, age and thickness of the tree to be used. A thinner tree will bend with the weight of the cable and through usage, so please be very selective. While it is not always possible to use two trees, it is possible to use one tree and then to build a support frame and platform at the other end.

    We would strongly recommend that depending on the length of your proposed zip wire run, that you look at adding some strengthening guide wires to your less than established trees or support frames.

    Can you suggest where I can buy any supports from?

    You will not be able to buy readymade supports frames but you will be able to buy the wood needed to make them. We suggest that you look for a good wood/timber merchant or fencing specialist.

    Please make sure that where ever you buy your posts from that they have been either treated with Tanalith 'e' or is made from micronised wood.

    There are a number of good companies offering machined round wood timber in 150mm dia, in lengths of up to 7.2m and who should be able to deliver across the UK.

    Take a look at these helpful companies:
    M&M Timber - Midlands
    CJ Timber - North Wales
    Total Poles - North Kent

    Can I install a zip wire myself?

    Although you might be thinking that this is a task you don't want to do yourself, it really is not as hard as it might seem and therefore the simple answer to this is most definitely yes. In fact, over 90% of the kits we have sold have been installed by the person buying the kit.

    The junior zip wire can be installed very quickly by 2 adults following the supplied fitting instructions between 2 trees or supports.

    The adult zip wire will take 2 adults a bit longer depending on how it is to be installed. If running the zip wire from tree to tree, this can be as little as 60mins. If running from support to support, this can take longer due to having to construct the supports unless done in advance. If the supports are already built in advance then the fitting of the adult zip wire can take about 1 hour or less.

    Do you supply fitting instructions with your zip wires?

    Full fitting instructions are included with the junior zip wire kits which you will find very simple to follow.

    With the adult zip wire, it is impossible to supply specific detailed fitting instructions as no two installations are the same and everyone's installation is unique. However, we do supply in the box a set of generic fitting instructions which will give you a good overview as to how to install your zip wire.

    The secret, and one thing to bear in mind and remember, to installing your zip wire is that there is no real science involved.

    The best bit of advice we can offer is to install your zip wire as per the generic instructions we provide, and then... tweak as necessary to suit your individual requirements.

    What if I don't feel up to installing the zip wire myself. Can you suggest any installers for me to contact?

    There are a number of companies available on the internet that will offer you a complete design, supply and install the job but you will find that these can be very expensive - starting from about £5,000+.

    Unfortunately it is not really possible for someone to make a living purely from installing zip wires, however, we do know of someone that will offer you a complete package which includes:

    1. coming and carrying out a site survey, discussing and advising on your requirements.
    2. carrying out all aspects of your zip wire project - building your supports if needed, installation, testing and making any adjustments of your zip wire.
    3. carrying out yearly maintenance and testing

    If this is something that is of interest, then please call us to discuss.

    Alternatively, in the past our customers have made use of the services of a good friend who is capable of DIY, landscape gardeners that specialise in hard landscaping or a good builder. The same applies if you are looking for someone to build end supports.

    How can we protect the tree from the cable?

    It is a good idea to help protect the tree when you lasso the tree with the cable at the receiving end. One of the best ways to do this is to use some narrow logs or broom handles cut up into 9? lengths as a means of protecting the tree. You could also try using either part of an old tyre or some thick rubber hose (doubled up if possible).

    What are the weight limits for your zip wires?

    The weight limit for the junior zip wire is a maximum of 57kgs (9 stone)

    While the adult zip wire, depending on which size wire you go for will take the following:

    10mm wire will take up to a maximum weight limit of 127kgs (20 stone)

    12mm wire will take up to a maximum weight limit of 158kgs (25 stone)

    Junior / 8mm FAQs Show all ++ Hide all --

    The junior zip wire is much cheaper than the adult zip wire - why?

    Yes the junior zip wire is much cheaper and this is reflected in the materials used to make it.

    It has to be appreciated that adult zip wires are more expensive because of the higher standard and better quality of the product supplied and that you can also look forward to a much longer life span of the equipment.

    Either way you will not be disappointed in your purchase.

    Can adults use the junior zip wire?

    Although the junior zip wire has a user weight limit of 57kgs (9 stone) it strongly recommended that adults do not use the junior zip wire.

    If you are considering a zip wire to take more than this weight, we suggest that you take a look at one of our other zip wire kits as these have a much higher user weight limit on them.

    What is the weight limit for the junior zip wire?

    The weight limit for the junior zip wire is a maximum of 57kgs (9 stone)

    I see the junior zip wire comes with 30m of cable. Can I extend this?

    Unfortunately not as this is the recommended length of wire for this zip wire.

    Due to the need for safe use over a distance, if you want something longer you will have to take a look at our other zip wires.

    Do you supply fitting instructions with the junior zip wire?

    Full fitting instructions are included with the junior zip wire kits which you will find very simple to follow.

    Does the junior zip wire come with everything?

    Yes the junior zip wire comes with everything that you need in the one box.

    It really is a question of taking out zip wire out of the box and with a few simple tools that can be found at home, installing the zip wire.

    I see there's no brake with the junior zip wire?

    Yes that's correct - there is no brake with the junior zip wire kit.

    Because the junior zip wire has been designed to be installed on flat ground and with only a small difference in the heights at each end, the junior zip wire does not need and will not have a brake with it.

    If you are looking for something faster and something that needs a brake, then please take a look at our other zip wire range.

    10mm/12mm - FAQs Show all ++ Hide all --

    Why are your family zip wires more expensive than the junior zip wire?

    Yes our range of family zip wires are more expensive and this is reflected in the higher standard and better quality of materials used to make a better product. The other big advantage in using a family zip wire over a junior one is that you can also look forward to a much longer life span of the equipment.

    Why should I upgrade to a 12mm zip wire kit?

    Although the 10mm kits are generally very good for all the family to use up to about 60m in length, it is always worth considering upgrading to a 12mm zip wire kit.

    The main reason being that although the wire is only a 2mm increase in size, it makes a big difference in the stability and performance of you zip wire. We have found over the years that depending on usage, the 10mm wire can stretch and will need re-tensioning, whereas the 12mm is not so problematic.

    Using 12mm wire also means that you can make your zip wire much longer in length as well as carrying a higher weight load on the line. All this enhancing your overall experience of an exhilarating fun-filled pastime.

    Commercial FAQs Show all ++ Hide all --

    I'm looking to put in a commercial zip wire. Are there any rules I need to be aware of?

    Yes there are a few things that you need to be aware of if you are installing a zip wire for use in a commercial area like a playground, farm shop or holiday park.

    The first thing you need to know is that any installation that is to be used in a commercial area as indicated above must be installed in accordance with BS EN1176/7 and consequently inspected to make sure that these standards have been adhered to.

    Secondly the normal maximum length permissible for use in this commercial situation is 35m and ideally should always be installed on level ground.

    What size wire do you recommend for a commercial installation?

    To be honest, you can use either the 10mm, 12mm, 14mm, 16mm or 19mm wire. The difference in the various size wire is the breaking strain and therefore the end user weight limit. With the 10mm wire the weight limit is 127kgs (20 stone), 12mm wire this will be extended to a maximum weight limit of 158kgs (25 stone).

    The size of wire to use is determined by what kind of zip wire and what length you want to use.

    Can I put a 10mm trolley onto 12mm wire and vice versa?

    No, sorry you cannot do this. A 10mm trolley has been designed and made to work purely on a 10mm wire and the same with the 12mm trolley. Please make sure that you buy the correct trolley.

    What if I don't feel up to installing the zip wire myself. Or I would like a much longer Commercial installation. Can you suggest any installers for me?

    Yes we partner with some very good people that can both design, build and install a commercial zip wire run for you. We are happy to take some details and pass them on for you, if so please contact us to discuss further.

    Can I use the 12mm commercial zip wire in my garden?

    Yes, of course, you can. In fact, doing so will give a bigger maximum user weight limit on your ride. Also if you use a 12mm in your garden you do not have to use the enclosed 12mm trolley or conform to the installation standard of BS EN1176/7.

    If installing a 12mm zip wire run in your garden it does give you the option of having a much longer run. Please call us for further advice or to discuss.