I have a lean-to
errr, I mean ... garden room canopy to work under, Spuce.
The 4th section hasn't been changed and is three poles (over 5 years) old if that makes sense.
The top three sections were replaced in March 2021 and a new clamp and base cap bought for section 4 at the same time.
Method. Section 4 gets cleaned out thoroughly with soapy water using a long wooden rod with part of a cut up dish cloth rubber banded to the end. (like pushing wadding into a cannon)
Assemble pole with 3 new sections (they come with stop tape in place). Jaws of section 4 opened with the Gardiners widget thingy (remove clamp lever first). Immediately spray up with a furniture polish. Use pole.
From time to time, fully extend pole and clean outer surfaces, spray with furniture polish.Every 12 months later. (Depending on wear)
Check if clamps have enough 'play' to leave a gap when closed. If getting narrow buy a new set of clamps (they can be used at the next refurb if OK for now - see Gardiner's site for ways to replace clamps)
Disassemble pole, remove stop tape, wash through as per section 4 above, leave to dry.
Use car spray paint for re doing worn warning stop points. Let dry.
Using Halfords Clear Lacquer spray give two coats 15 minutes apart as per tin instructions. If there are worn points at the pole end maybe add another coat or two for a few inches around the worn point. Let dry overnight.
Reassemble with new tape (insulation tape). Use Gardiner's widget to open clamp jaws and leave clamp levers off until reassembled. Spray up with furniture polish.
Unless I have a section break I think I will get over three years out of my pole - and even then the top three sections will go in my Extreme 47 to replace the top three sections already there.
Time taken?
About two hours all in but you would be wise to leave the lacquer to dry overnight at room temperature before reassembly.
