National Hardware N109-050 Gate Thumb Latch, Black

Product Information

Yes, all gates can use a gate latch, but not all gate latches work on all gates. Some require specific designs. Q. How do I install a gate latch? There are many types of gate latches, each of which works differently while serving the same purpose: to keep the gate secure and closed. Here’s a rundown of the most common types: Bob Vila has been America’s Handyman since 1979. As the host of beloved and groundbreaking TV series including “This Old House” and “Bob Vila’s Home Again,” he popularized and became synonymous with “do-it-yourself” home improvement.

When it comes to choosing the right gate latch for your home, you’ll want to take a look at the big picture. As the architecture of your home most likely guided your gate design choices, the style of your gate latch should also complement your home. Additionally, it should coordinate with the exterior hardware that you already have, such as your door hardware and even your outdoor lighting fixtures. The durability of bronze reduces any risk of chipping or the need to refinish it over time. If you let this metal age on its own, it will gradually darken to display a dark copper penny-like hue. After some additional time, bronze changes to a faded green color. While this shade is often very desirable, you can prevent the metal from turning green by applying a coat of wax annually. This prevents discoloration, enhances lifespan, and protects the metal. Shopping for a gate latch is easy—once you’ve done your research, that is. To help you out, the following is a collection of the necessary need-to-know information. Here are some of the most important points to keep in mind while shopping for the best gate latch for your fenced-in yard. Types of Gate Latches Typically, gates should open inward toward the space. This is a tradition held over from gardens in populated cities, where outward swinging gates could strike a passerby. Why Trust Bob Vila Like most gate latch materials, you’ll want to put forth some effort at maintaining it to extend its longevity. To provide an additional layer of protection, apply a lubricating oil monthly. This will help prevent that annoying squeaking noise and also eliminate the chance of the material being damaged by the elements.

Gate Latch Materials

The easiest way to install a gate latch is by attaching the hardware to the gate first, lining the closed gate up with the post, and attaching the catch on the post. All it takes is a pencil for marking the holes to drill, a power drill and drill bits, as well as a screwdriver or driver bit for the power drill. Q. What side should a gate open? The first step is to take a look at your home. Does it have a style that leans more rustic, modern, Colonial, traditional, Gothic, Victorian, or another era? Then, examine the existing hardware on your front door. If you like the look of your door handle, you may want to mimic the appearance and get a gate latch that is a similar style. Also, pay attention to the types of metals that your property already has. In ideal conditions, though, iron has a long lifespan and provides an excellent value for the cost. You still will need to perform regular maintenance to keep it looking its best. It’s recommended to use a steel wool material for clearing away rust spots and applying a protectant spray to the surface regularly.

Stainless steel is similar in appearance to aluminum, but is a much heavier, stronger, and more durable material. It is highly resistant to denting, warping, or bending under pressure or temperature shifts. Although it is one of the more expensive options, it is a great material to choose if you’re looking for something that is durable, modern, and long-wearing. Often found in contemporary and modern styles, stainless steel is highly resistant to corrosion and is generally found in a raw silver tone. Or, you can opt for a powdered coated option, which provides an extra layer of protection in especially corrosive areas like near the beach or a body of saltwater. However, to keep the coating looking great, you may need to apply regular touch-ups. Gates in chain-link fences require specially designed gate latches like this model from Jake Sales. This latch attaches in seconds, requiring just tightening the nuts on the U-bolt to hold it in place. Gravity gate latches function, as their name suggests, by using gravity. As the gate closes, the force of the swing allows the latch arm to push past the strike plate and fall into the catch, securing the gate. This is a very desirable option as they can also be self-operated, meaning you can easily open or close it without the need for any outside intervention. These gate latches are always two-sided, due to the fact that the arm needs to fall into the strike to function properly.If you’re concerned about wear and tear and rust, aluminum might be the ideal choice for you. It is both durable and lightweight, and also has a natural resistance to corrosion. This allows aluminum gate latches to be installed in virtually any environment. Fences and the gates that secure them come in a variety of shapes and sizes. For example, tall fences might benefit from a particular latch style, while lower fences might do better with another. Also, some garden gates are built from wood, which features right angles and flat surfaces. Chain-link fences, on the other hand, use round metal pipes. The hardware for one won’t work for the other, so you’ll have to choose the appropriate latch for your gate. Anyone hunting for a self-latching post mount gate latch at a reasonable price will want to give this model from Aiwaiufu some consideration. This budget-friendly latch features a spring-loaded gravity latch that secures the gate automatically. It also has a fingertip release, allowing for easy but secure opening and closing.

The final gate latch material you have to choose from is iron. It is one of the most commonly used materials for gate latches and is found in an array of designs, including traditional, antique, colonial, and old-world styles. Manufacturers of these types of gate latches use both wrought iron and cast iron, which have a very dignified appearance that’ll look excellent against your fencing. That covers the look, the other consideration you need to make is your environment. More specifically, how durable of a material do you need to withstand the outdoor elements in your area? For example, if you live near the ocean, you’ll want to opt for a metal that resists corrosion. Likewise, if your gate is going to see a lot of daily use, you may want to choose one of the more durable options such as bronze or iron.When it comes to convenience, it’s hard to find something to beat D&D Technologies’ LokkLatch gate latch. This latch features a simple fingertip release as well as a keyed tumbler, making passage an easy, straightforward proposition. It installs just as easily, requiring just a few screws. Bronze is considered one of the most expensive gate latch material options. It is a very durable material that tends to age exceptionally. This material is the ideal choice for those who have a more high-end taste, as it feels very dense and looks stunning. Whether a fence is wood, metal, or PVC, it’s likely to shift a bit between the seasons and temperature changes. Also, as a gate ages it will likely sag a bit. For that reason, the best gate latch for a particular application might include a degree of adjustability. The different materials aren’t just for weather resistance. Many shoppers also choose a particular set of hardware (the gate latch, hinges, and the screws to mount them) for a certain look or aesthetic. Gate Frame Shape and Type

Some gate latches are easier to install than others, and choosing the correct model might hinge a bit on that point. For instance, bolt latches tend to be very easy to install: Just attach the bolt housing to the post-edge of the gate, close the gate, and install the catch that receives the bolt on the gate. In general, this takes six screws. Gate latches are available in several different materials. The most common material used for gate latches is powder-coated steel, which is a low-cost but relatively weather-resistant choice. You’ll also find zinc-plated steel or iron, which is usually found in chain-link fence gates. Upgraded hardware options might include stainless steel or even bronze, both of which are more resistant to corrosion than steel or iron. However, aluminum is much more brittle than most other options on this list, meaning you’ll likely need to invest in a quality gate stop to prevent the daily movement from putting unnecessary stress on the latch arm. Over time, too much stress can lead to breakage.Many bronze gate designs are made with a strong emphasis on artistry. They consist of contemporary, traditional, and also old-fashioned elements. As a result, bronze can make an excellent statement piece for the outside of your gate. Since the metal ages well, it does not require a powder-coated finish to protect it. Aluminum gate latch designs can be found in the conventional silver color, but they’re also available in a powder-coated option. That way, you can easily coordinate your gate latch with the other hardware on your fence that may be a different color. While everyday use can cause the powder coating to chip, this can be prevented by performing frequent maintenance and touch-ups. Not all gate-latch hardware is rated for outdoor application. Raw metals like steel will rust and corrode, and they’ll only last a season or two. It’s important to find hardware made from materials that will last, like stainless steel or bronze, or metals with protective coatings such as zinc plating or powder-coat paint.