When it comes to building a safe and functional pool fence in Springfield, MO, one of the most overlooked—but most important—components is the pool gate hinge. At Ozark Fence, we take pool safety seriously, and we’ve tested a lot of hinges over the years. One of our top recommendations? The Nationwide Industries Cornerstone 2 Self-Closing Hinge.
In this blog, we’ll highlight why this hinge stands out for pool gate applications and walk through its key features and benefits—straight from a hands-on install demo.
Why the Right Hinge Matters for Pool Gates
Pool fences must meet strict safety standards. A gate that fails to self-close or self-latch poses a serious risk—especially with kids or pets around. That’s why choosing the right hinge is just as important as the latch, height, and spacing of your fence.
What’s in the Bag: Everything You Need to Install
When you purchase the Cornerstone 2, you’re getting a complete hinge kit:
- Two self-closing hinge sets
- All necessary mounting hardware
- Easy-to-follow instructions
- An Allen key for adjusting the spring tension
No extra parts needed—everything is included.
Key Feature: Adjustable Brackets for a Perfect Fit
One of the standout features of the Cornerstone 2 is the adjustable mounting brackets:
- They offer both horizontal and vertical adjustment, giving you full flexibility during installation.
- The gap between the gate and the post can be anywhere from 1.5 inches down to ¼ inch.
- This makes it a great choice for retrofits, uneven terrain, or tricky gate frames.
Once the brackets are installed on the gate post and gate frame, the hinge body easily attaches, making alignment quick and simple.
Installation: Fast, Simple, and Secure
Installation is straightforward:
- Remove the back brackets from the hinges.
- Secure brackets to the gate post and gate frame with screws.
- Reattach the hinge body using included washers and nuts.
- Make final alignment adjustments before fully tightening.
Tip: Leave the nuts slightly loose while positioning the gate, then tighten once aligned.
Adjusting the Closing Speed: Self-Closing Made Easy
The Cornerstone 2 is spring-loaded, and you can adjust the closing speed using the included Allen key.
- Turn clockwise to increase tension (faster close)
- Turn counterclockwise to decrease tension (slower close)
This adjustability is especially useful depending on which latch you pair with the hinge. A heavier latch might require more tension to engage properly.
Ideal for Pool Gates and Beyond
We love using the Cornerstone 2 hinges for:
- Pool gates (meets most safety standards)
- Residential backyard fences
- Commercial chain link and aluminum gates
Their clean look, durability, and reliable self-closing function make them an ideal option for safety-critical applications like pools.
Final Thoughts: Is the Cornerstone 2 Right for You?
If you’re installing or upgrading a pool gate in Springfield, MO, the Cornerstone 2 hinge offers:
- Effortless installation
- Long-term durability
- Full adjustability
- Code-friendly self-closing performance
At Ozark Fence, we proudly use and recommend this hinge for a wide range of residential and commercial fencing projects. It’s affordable, reliable, and safe.
Need help picking the right gate hardware?
Visit our store or contact us today—we’re here to help you build a fence that’s safe, functional, and built to last.