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UK Window Cleaning Forum => Window Cleaning Forum => Topic started by: mike1986 on May 17, 2022, 09:23:52 am

Title: Gardiner poles not as durable as they were
Post by: mike1986 on May 17, 2022, 09:23:52 am
Has anyone else noticed this? I ordered 2 six poles 6 months ago and have had to glue the clamps back on at least 4 times, replaced the removable jets a few times, and now the top sections are so worn they need replacing as they’re ready to snap. I used to get 12-18 months out of a pole before the sections had worn this much.
Title: Re: Gardiner poles not as durable as they were
Post by: Splash & dash on May 17, 2022, 12:35:40 pm
I have had the odd clamp need re gluing, but never had to re do it once it’s been glued on again , you need to roughen  up the inside of the clamp and pole then clean with metholated spirtis or similar then re glue . As for pole sections wearing out no we have around 28 poles in total with staff using them daily and the SLX poles never get cleaned or serviced and always last 2:5-3:5 years ,never snapped an slx section , sounds like pole abuse to me
Title: Re: Gardiner poles not as durable as they were
Post by: Smudger on May 17, 2022, 01:09:45 pm
clamps requiring glueing has always been an issue with slx poles - like splash said once done they usually stay done.

my issues were wear on the 1.5 inches below the clamp this leads to a lot of spinning - I now use OVA-8 - these have proved themselves over the last 2 years with little to no wear.

Darran
Title: Re: Gardiner poles not as durable as they were
Post by: britishwill on May 17, 2022, 03:41:57 pm
No issues apart from the odd clamp still an excellent pole.
Title: Re: Gardiner poles not as durable as they were
Post by: NBwcs on May 17, 2022, 04:12:31 pm
Before going over to the Nano, I used clx's for my everyday pole and would have been disappointed with anything less than 2 yrs, 6 months for a slx is shocking, it would be unacceptable for an extreme imo let alone a slx. I hope there's a rational explanation for it or there going to be alot of very dissatisfied customers (going forward) on here. Not a change of manufacturing source I hope? Although I use a nano I still have a slx for the tall stuff.
Title: Re: Gardiner poles not as durable as they were
Post by: windowswashed on May 17, 2022, 04:14:58 pm
I've still got the slx with the keyhole shaped clamps.... still use it, it's like new, probably the best slx pole ever bought.
Title: Re: Gardiner poles not as durable as they were
Post by: SB Cleaning on May 17, 2022, 04:25:58 pm
Gardiners are going downhill with quality and have been for a while.
Title: Re: Gardiner poles not as durable as they were
Post by: DJW on May 17, 2022, 04:47:26 pm
Not sure I would agree with that. I’ve been using their kit since 2007. Can’t say I’ve noticed any downward trend in quality. Just compare their early brushes for example. Before they produced their own poles and clamps the alternatives were horrible.
They did go through a period of clamps coming off, something to do with the glue not bonding I think. Maybe contact Alex and mention it.
I do miss the telephone option and free delivery though and of course all the other stuff they used to stock like resin, hose etc.
Title: Re: Gardiner poles not as durable as they were
Post by: the king on May 17, 2022, 06:28:56 pm
I snaped a number 3 section today on my extreme re glued loads of clamps over years ive decided to try a xline nano next fancy a change
Title: Re: Gardiner poles not as durable as they were
Post by: Jonny 87 on May 17, 2022, 06:29:55 pm
I started with facelift poles back in 2010, then discovered gardiners and I have never looked back since.

If anything I’d say the quality has improved. The “shims” for example in the clamps, and the little notch that stopped the clamps from spinning round when loosened.

We use extreme poles, and slx poles, and they all last years. I get two years Atleast from an extreme, and probably three from an slx before the sections spin.

That’s full time hours for me, and my wife does two days a week, so they get heavy use.

Mayb it’s a case of being a bit too heavy handed or getting loads of grit inside the pole and not cleaning it out?

Title: Re: Gardiner poles not as durable as they were
Post by: NBwcs on May 17, 2022, 06:52:37 pm
The historic quality of Gardiners poles isn't being questioned, the op has noticed deterioration on a slx just bought just 6 months ago so it's whether if you bought a new pole would it be up to the same standard as we're used to.
Title: Re: Gardiner poles not as durable as they were
Post by: Stoots on May 17, 2022, 07:02:44 pm
Ive heard people say this but im not sure its true.

I used to have slx clamps spin all the time and if anything ive noticed it happening less recently. Thats probably just coincidence, i think they`ve always been the same.

Extreme lasts about a year, slx probably 2 years which is about the same as always for me...

I think people are maybe expecting too much from poles, they get used every day and take some hammer.

Ive had xline, phantom, ova 8 amongst others and still end up going back to gardiners. Although the clamps do spin i still think they are better than all the other clamps on the poles i just mentioned.  The slx is still the best value for money pole on the market imo
Title: Re: Gardiner poles not as durable as they were
Post by: NWH on May 17, 2022, 07:22:23 pm
A lot of the best consumable items are fantastic over a shorter period I took 4 terrible Pirelli Zeros off my car and put 4 Pilot 4s on,the latter are softer and perform far better than the 1st but for a shorter period.
Gardiner extreme poles are the bench mark they are the lightest and imo the best,do they last as long as an inferior heavier cheaper pole no they don’t but you get what you pay for I would buy 2 to 1 inferior pole that would last longer.
Title: Re: Gardiner poles not as durable as they were
Post by: Jonny 87 on May 17, 2022, 07:25:02 pm
The historic quality of Gardiners poles isn't being questioned, the op has noticed deterioration on a slx just bought just 6 months ago so it's whether if you bought a new pole would it be up to the same standard as we're used to.

I bought a new extreme 25 about 8 months ago and it’s the same quality as the one I bought 3 years ago. I don’t think anything’s changed.
Title: Re: Gardiner poles not as durable as they were
Post by: Alex Gardiner on May 17, 2022, 07:29:32 pm
The historic quality of Gardiners poles isn't being questioned, the op has noticed deterioration on a slx just bought just 6 months ago so it's whether if you bought a new pole would it be up to the same standard as we're used to.

Hi NBwcs

To clarify/confirm the construction methods, material construction and quality of the Gardiner range of poles has not in any way been downgraded or changed.

We still use our own exclusive factories to produce each element of the poles and the same quality of goods has been maintained despite increasing costs throughout the last 2 years.

Of course, there can still be item specific issues and we very happily work with our customers to help sort or resolve if this turns out to be a manufacturing issue or product flaw – this fortunately is very rare as our quality control standards are high.

Title: Re: Gardiner poles not as durable as they were
Post by: Alex Gardiner on May 17, 2022, 07:35:37 pm
Has anyone else noticed this? I ordered 2 six poles 6 months ago and have had to glue the clamps back on at least 4 times, replaced the removable jets a few times, and now the top sections are so worn they need replacing as they’re ready to snap. I used to get 12-18 months out of a pole before the sections had worn this much.

Hi mike1986

Sorry that you are not happy with your recent purchase. I have looked on our system and cannot see that you have contacted us directly about these issues.

None of our product materials or standards have been changed since you last bought from us - so if you do get in contact we will happily take a look at the products and see what help and feedback we can provide you.

Title: Re: Gardiner poles not as durable as they were
Post by: dazmond on May 17, 2022, 07:37:36 pm
Personally I wish the xtreme range of poles were a bit stronger and heavier(the xline nano is the perfect balance between durability,weight and rigidity imo).Still a lot lighter than an SLX.

I've never had a problem with Gardiner clamps coming loose for many years now.

The xtreme pole is well...errr....just a tad too extreme I think..... ;D
Title: Re: Gardiner poles not as durable as they were
Post by: Hazzah on May 17, 2022, 08:04:00 pm
I have used Gardiners poles since day 1 and they are spot on, i use the CLX/SLX and SMAX range and would never go anywhere else for my poles
Title: Re: Gardiner poles not as durable as they were
Post by: AuRavelling79 on May 17, 2022, 08:54:31 pm
I use extremes for everything.

I lacquer my everyday pole once a year. It is my own extreme 20. I keep the base section and every 2/3 years buy replacement top 3 sections and a base section clamp.

I'm surprised Gardiners don't sell them as standard. Much lighter than a 22 and only fractionally heavier than an 18.
Title: Re: Gardiner poles not as durable as they were
Post by: the king on May 17, 2022, 09:34:39 pm
Ide like to see gardners ditch the glued clamps and use bolt on ones 
Title: Re: Gardiner poles not as durable as they were
Post by: Richard iSparkle on May 18, 2022, 05:21:12 am
we use gardiner poles and have done for around 10 years now.

we haven't noticed any change in quality or durability TBH
Title: Re: Gardiner poles not as durable as they were
Post by: jonboywalton75 on May 18, 2022, 08:03:59 am
Love my slx's and Supermax
As good as ever
Title: Re: Gardiner poles not as durable as they were
Post by: LBWCS on May 18, 2022, 06:06:27 pm
11 months into a new slx 18 and not a single complaint. Early days sometimes the glue in the clamps would slip. Not had that in donkeys so I’d have to say quality has improved. Like Alex says, get in contact if there’s and issue.

Title: Re: Gardiner poles not as durable as they were
Post by: motod on May 18, 2022, 06:27:51 pm
Love my xtreme18 daily and 22 for odd window... both over a year now and no issues... used with xtreme brushes. Few SLX too which are great value. Awaiting delivery of another slx18 and new slx8 to use for ground floors only, interesting to see how that works, at 500g only and slx durability it should be great  :)
Title: Re: Gardiner poles not as durable as they were
Post by: deeege on May 18, 2022, 06:45:06 pm
Recently snapped a section of my supermax so was very disappointed until I realised the pole must be over 12 years old now.
Title: Re: Gardiner poles not as durable as they were
Post by: Ched on May 18, 2022, 07:15:25 pm
Awaiting delivery of another slx18 and new slx8 to use for ground floors only, interesting to see how that works, at 500g only and slx durability it should be great  :)
I bought a clx8 for bungalows and it's great, so light you don't feel like it's any effort. It's long enough to reach across flower beds to the windows or ground floor tall windows. I also use it on big conservatories. It's also nice and short for tight spaces. Not sure I would shell out the extra £26 + vat as SLX8 is same weight as CLX8 plus at such a short length it's not like flex is an issue!
Title: Re: Gardiner poles not as durable as they were
Post by: dazmond on May 18, 2022, 07:22:53 pm
Recently snapped a section of my supermax so was very disappointed until I realised the pole must be over 12 years old now.

Is it the 40 footer Danny  I sold you all them years ago?

To be fair you ve had your moneys worth out of it.... ;D
Title: Re: Gardiner poles not as durable as they were
Post by: deeege on May 18, 2022, 08:58:32 pm
Recently snapped a section of my supermax so was very disappointed until I realised the pole must be over 12 years old now.

Is it the 40 footer Danny  I sold you all them years ago?

To be fair you ve had your moneys worth out of it.... ;D

Yep that’s the one. It only gets used on 1 job a month these days but it’s done me good over the years.
Title: Re: Gardiner poles not as durable as they were
Post by: the king on June 01, 2022, 04:49:25 pm
I got the xline 25 nano gota say its poker stiff and strong but its defo heavy compared to extreme 22 and my slx 22 with extreme base section finding it hard work time will tell on how long it will last the anty pinch clamps don't work very well im changing the way i work now use the 25 for high stuff and my 18ft phathom for lower stuff alltho this phathom pole is guna be replaced buy a slx as its garbage 🤣
Title: Re: Gardiner poles not as durable as they were
Post by: NWH on June 01, 2022, 05:43:54 pm
If you use mainly 1 pole sit down and work out how much you’ve earned from it in a year that’s the way you’ve got to look at it,I have a pump which is still going 7-8 years later so I won’t be moaning when I have to spend a lousy 100 notes for another Will i lol.
Title: Re: Gardiner poles not as durable as they were
Post by: dazmond on June 01, 2022, 07:24:51 pm
I got the xline 25 nano gota say its poker stiff and strong but its defo heavy compared to extreme 22 and my slx 22 with extreme base section finding it hard work time will tell on how long it will last the anty pinch clamps don't work very well im changing the way i work now use the 25 for high stuff and my 18ft phathom for lower stuff alltho this phathom pole is guna be replaced buy a slx as its garbage 🤣

I use my 25ft nano all the time as my main pole with a Gardiner carbon gooseneck and extreme brush(sometimes a supreme brush)....

I think it's light as a feather but stronger and more rigid than the equivalent xtreme 25....it is heavier but  only slightly heavier....the rigidity is awesome IMO....
Title: Re: Gardiner poles not as durable as they were
Post by: Stoots on June 01, 2022, 08:23:06 pm
I was just thinking today i dont think i`ll buy another extreme. Had mine a year both top sections now snapped and replaced with old slx sections. Rest of the pole is looking worn too... Its is a nice pole but 700 quid is a lot of money to last a year no matter how much you earn.

Might tart it up and stick it on ebay  ;D
Title: Re: Gardiner poles not as durable as they were
Post by: dazmond on June 01, 2022, 08:39:10 pm
I was just thinking today i dont think i`ll buy another extreme. Had mine a year both top sections now snapped and replaced with old slx sections. Rest of the pole is looking worn too... Its is a nice pole but 700 quid is a lot of money to last a year no matter how much you earn.

Might tart it up and stick it on ebay  ;D

I agree.....also another factor is I can't be arsed doing the regular maintenance on an xtreme pole so they inevitably wear out quicker than if I spent time flushing them out every week and regularly renewing the annoying stop tape...some people even spend time building up the worn sections with lacquer.

I tend to just flush my nano pole out with water occasionally(without taking the sections apart)....that's it.
Title: Re: Gardiner poles not as durable as they were
Post by: Stoots on June 01, 2022, 09:35:49 pm
I was just thinking today i dont think i`ll buy another extreme. Had mine a year both top sections now snapped and replaced with old slx sections. Rest of the pole is looking worn too... Its is a nice pole but 700 quid is a lot of money to last a year no matter how much you earn.

Might tart it up and stick it on ebay  ;D

I agree.....also another factor is I can't be arsed doing the regular maintenance on an xtreme pole so they inevitably wear out quicker than if I spent time flushing them out every week and regularly renewing the annoying stop tape...some people even spend time building up the worn sections with lacquer.

I tend to just flush my nano pole out with water occasionally(without taking the sections apart)....that's it.

I don't think flushing them out would make any difference ive heard of people taking really good care of them and they still snap  after not very long. I think thats just a disclaimer that alex includes so he can get out of replacing sections.
Title: Re: Gardiner poles not as durable as they were
Post by: zesty on June 01, 2022, 09:40:57 pm
I still maintain my belief that the mk2 extreme was the best for 25ft and under. Those metal bands were genius, never ever had to adjust the clamps , reduced wear and super light.

Wish Alex would bring them back as an option.

The mk3 is stiffer, but it wears out so ridiculously fast it’s almost false economy now.
Title: Re: Gardiner poles not as durable as they were
Post by: Richard iSparkle on June 02, 2022, 06:55:37 am
I was just thinking today i dont think i`ll buy another extreme. Had mine a year both top sections now snapped and replaced with old slx sections. Rest of the pole is looking worn too... Its is a nice pole but 700 quid is a lot of money to last a year no matter how much you earn.

Might tart it up and stick it on ebay  ;D

I agree.....also another factor is I can't be arsed doing the regular maintenance on an xtreme pole so they inevitably wear out quicker than if I spent time flushing them out every week and regularly renewing the annoying stop tape...some people even spend time building up the worn sections with lacquer.

I tend to just flush my nano pole out with water occasionally(without taking the sections apart)....that's it.

I don't think flushing them out would make any difference ive heard of people taking really good care of them and they still snap  after not very long. I think thats just a disclaimer that alex includes so he can get out of replacing sections.

i can honestly say we take no extra care of the poles at all. they are used every clean and then back in the van. they are never flushed or taped

when the clamps break we replace the whole pole.

they still last about a year of hard daily use
Title: Re: Gardiner poles not as durable as they were
Post by: the king on June 02, 2022, 07:08:29 am
I would like to see xline do a 22ft pole that would be interesting to see how it feels compared to extreme i find the gardner poles better balanced if you want a durable pole change the base section on a slx 22 for a extreme base section makes a difference
Title: Re: Gardiner poles not as durable as they were
Post by: NBwcs on June 02, 2022, 02:30:19 pm
For me, the 15 mins once a month it takes to dismantle, push a ball of wet wipes through each section with a garden cane, , spray with dry ptfe, stick a single layer of electric tape at the base of each internal section (this is the weak part of the section that can start to splinter) is worth it. The cost of the nano and even more so with the extreme makes it worth the time imo, never did it with the clx, but these things arnt cheap,and I don't part with my money easily. You can feel the difference once youve done it, it moves much easier, and the spray defiantly helps regards getting black hands. If Gardiners and xline reckon it helps then I'm happy with that. You don't have to be anal about it like I am and religiously do it come the end of the month, we must all have 15mins during the month when the weathers too bad to work, just do it then. The amount of crud that comes out on the wipes, especially in winter is a bit of an eye opener, it can't be doing the pole any good keeping it in there.



Title: Re: Gardiner poles not as durable as they were
Post by: robbo333 on June 03, 2022, 10:19:38 am
I've had my extreme 22 for about 10 years.
All I've had to replace is the brushes (obviously), a worn gooseneck, naturally section 1 and 2, the mid section and I think the base section once. It's been a great pole over all those years.  ;D ;D ;D ;D
Title: Re: Gardiner poles not as durable as they were
Post by: NWH on June 03, 2022, 10:32:06 am
The metal bands made the pole last way longer there just needed to be more of them per section,you clamped on the band so no strain on the carbon I’ve still got one in the garage.
Title: Re: Gardiner poles not as durable as they were
Post by: Bungle on June 03, 2022, 03:20:19 pm
I've had my extreme 22 for about 10 years.
All I've had to replace is the brushes (obviously), a worn gooseneck, naturally section 1 and 2, the mid section and I think the base section once. It's been a great pole over all those years.  ;D ;D ;D ;D

Sounds like Triggers' broom.
Title: Re: Gardiner poles not as durable as they were
Post by: Soupy on June 03, 2022, 04:03:13 pm
I've had my extreme 22 for about 10 years.
All I've had to replace is the brushes (obviously), a worn gooseneck, naturally section 1 and 2, the mid section and I think the base section once. It's been a great pole over all those years.  ;D ;D ;D ;D

(http://www.cleanitup.co.uk/smf/1654268589_img_0665.jpg)
Title: Re: Gardiner poles not as durable as they were
Post by: robbo333 on June 03, 2022, 04:59:06 pm
...that was the idea...
Title: Re: Gardiner poles not as durable as they were
Post by: dazmond on June 07, 2022, 08:51:35 am
I still maintain my belief that the mk2 extreme was the best for 25ft and under. Those metal bands were genius, never ever had to adjust the clamps , reduced wear and super light.

Wish Alex would bring them back as an option.

The mk3 is stiffer, but it wears out so ridiculously fast it’s almost false economy now.

I still snapped 2 sections of the metal band mk2s....

They did slide easier though...