Convex Mirrors FAQ
HOW FAR AWAY CAN THE CONVEX MIRROR BE FROM THE ENTRANCE?
How far away the mirror can be will depend on how big the mirror is. A standard 600mm round mirror has a viewing distance of 6-7 metres. This means that it can be a recommended 6-7 metres away from the entrance while still providing good vision of the road. An 800mm round mirror has a viewing distance of 9-11 metres. Rectangular or wide-angle mirrors may be able to show slightly more than round mirrors.
Note that viewing distance can also be determined by what angle and how high or low the convex mirror is installed. For the best results install the mirror can observe how well oncoming traffic can be seen.
HOW FAR DOWN THE ROAD WILL I BE ABLE TO SEE?
The distance that you are trying to see should match the size of the mirror in terms of feet and inches. For example, if you're target distance is 25 feet your mirror should be approximately 25 inches in diameter. Bigger mirrors will allow further vision as size increases. Please note however that vision distance can depend on the person, nearby obstacles and target distance. Objects at an extreme distance from the mirror may not be visible. As vehicles or pedestrians approach the mirror they will gradually increase in size.
WILL THE MIRROR SHOW ME BOTH DIRECTIONS?
No, convex mirrors are not designed to show two opposite directions. If your target areas are two opposite directions you will require an additional mirror.
HOW DO I INSTALL A CONVEX MIRROR?
Most convex mirrors will include brackets in the box to install them onto a 76mm pole or a wall. When installing onto a 76mm pole the brackets will attach to the mirror and can be clamped onto the pole easily. Tighten the mirror as high as needed. Wall-mounted convex mirrors can be bolted to walls via a mounting plate. This may involve drilling into a wall - ensure that the surface is strong enough to hold the mirror. The SeeClear Extra Convex Mirror includes brackets for both pole and wall mounting.
CAN I INSTALL THE CONVEX MIRROR ON AN ESB POLE?
Our mirrors do not include brackets or any other mounting options to mount onto ESB poles. Any custom made brackets are used entirely at your risk and Pittman are not responsible for use of these with our convex mirror range.
CAN PITTMAN MAKE CUSTOM BRACKETS?
No, Pittman cannot make custom brackets for the convex mirror's range. Any brackets are included with the order.
WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN ACRYLIC AND STEEL CONVEX MIRRORS?
Acrylic and steel are the most common materials used to create convex mirrors. Acrylic mirrors use a lighter plastic style mirror front to create high-quality vision. Acrylic mirror fronts are generally lightweight and much cheaper than other materials. While they are shatterproof and won't break into tiny pieces they are not indestructible and are more likely to break.
Steel mirrors are much stronger than acrylic mirrors. The mirror fronts are virtually indestructible and are resistant to missiles, dents, rocks, vandalism and more. They also require little to no maintenance and provide better vision over longer periods.
CAN THE MIRROR FRONT BE REPLACED IF IT GETS DAMAGED?
The mirror front cannot be replaced if damaged. If the mirror is damaged it is recommended that the mirror is completely replaced. The SeeClear Traffic Steel Convex Mirrors are the most durable mirror options and will provide the least maintenance and trouble during it's use.
ARE CONVEX MIRRORS RAIN AND FROST-PROOF?
Convex mirrors are generally not rain and frost proof. However, steel convex mirrors are easier to keep clean and will require less maintenance or cleaning over time. If you need to completely avoid frost the Durabel IceFree Stainless Steel Traffic Mirror can be used with temperatures as low as -20°C. The active thermo gel in the back of the mirror regulates the temperature and prevents the formation of mist or ice.
HOW LONG CAN THE CONVEX MIRRORS BE USED FOR?
Convex mirrors can be used as long as they are still fully intact and the mirrors provide clear vision. In order to maximise the life of the convex mirror be sure to
- Regularly check the mirror for damage
- Keep the mirror front clean and free of debris
- Keep the mirror out of reach of vehicles to avoid collisions
