Not only is it not designed to accommodate seasonal wood movement, but its also not limited to only working on a door of traditional thickness. They are extremely secure and come in a range of modern finishes to coordinate with your hardware, lighting, or other outdoor features. One of the most expensive materials of the bunch, bronze is a substantial material that ages well. They can be added to both in-swinging or out-swinging fences and may be lockable with the addition of a padlock. Additionally, you can install it on swing out or swing in gates. You can refresh how each works by looking back at the categories we touched on above. Additionally, they are often made from durable polymer plastics with a stainless steel locking pin, which makes them corrosion-resistant. This makes it a good choice for large, heavy gates that need a strong latch. You can spend as little as $5 on an aluminum design, or upwards of $20 depending on the style and features you require. Spring-loaded latches come in various forms,notes Worst Room Home Design. One of the least complex latches is a simple bolt. Its also important that you pick out a latch that has a complementary dummy handle on the fixed look to give you a symmetrical look. While it might be tempting to use traditional door hardware on your outdoor gate, its not recommended by the experts. Theyre also the most challenging to install out of all three categories. Youll first want to understand the various categories of latches available and how each model works. The thumb style is an option only if you have an in-swinging gate. The most common way to add security is to purchase a gate catch that locks. It works well because it has a thumb depressor and a latching mechanism. When you push down on the setups thumb depressor, the latch will lift up and let you open your gate. On a wooden barricade, you can open it from either side of the door. The biggest difference between the two is that the lever has a lever handle on it instead of a ring on both sides of your fence. When it comes to materials for gate latch types, iron is usually the most popular. Lever designs operate nearly the same way as a ring option, but they have a lever handle rather than a ring on each side of the barrier. Some may be affiliate links, meaning we earn commissions on purchases. Any wood that you leave outside and exposed to the elements will contract and expand throughout the year as the seasons change. So, you can access your lever from both sides of the fence. The first category for latch gate types is a gravity gate latch. On the opposite end of the spectrum, if you install your latch during a time when the wood was wet and expanded, it can cause problems when the wood shrinks again as it dries out. Subscribe to our newsletter to receive regular updates, .wp-show-posts-columns#wpsp-18426 {margin-left: -2em; }.wp-show-posts-columns#wpsp-18426 .wp-show-posts-inner {margin: 0 0 2em 2em; } The Best Hot Tub Enclosures for Your Backyard Oasis, What Is a Veranda? If this happens, youll have to repaint it. In terms of installation, this is the simplest and least involved option as its a one-sided latch and can only be secured from the inside. While it is a bit more expensive, its a good material choice for a durable fence catch. The gravity will force the latch to fall into the plate whenever you release the pressure from the thumb depressor. From an installation standpoint, double sided gravity designs are usually used with an in-swinging option. Conversely, if you did your installation during a time when the wood was expanded, it could cause issues when it shrinks back down. To prevent all of this, you want to ensure that you pick materials that are designed for outdoor use. So, you can easily open the gate on your fence from either side of the gate. The spring gives you a much smoother closing action, but it also drives up the cost of the latch system. Side pull latches are another good option if you have pets or children, suggestsLocks 4 Gates. These are usually the most cost-effective model, and come in a variety of sizes and materials. However, stainless steel is also a slightly more expensive pick. This gate latch type will only work with an in-swinging gate style. Magnetic latches operate and lock from both sides of the gate with no visible fasteners, according to Hoover Fence. This model can be either gravity assisted or spring loaded and may be used on both in and out-swinging gates. Most bronze designs are crafted with an element of artistry, and they feature traditional, contemporary, and old world elements. By regularly cleaning with a brass cleaner and applying a UV resistant urethane clear coating to the metal, youll not only keep it looking shiny and new but maintain the integrity of the lock. However, you do need to clean it regularly using steel wool and spray it with a protectant. To open the door, all you have to do is open the lever. To prevent issues that can arise from using the wrong tools to do the job, ensure that you choose materials that work for outdoor use. While the option is simple to use, the basic model doesnt provide much security. Nice Latch by uncoolbob / CC BY-NC 2.0. You may need to re-touch the coating over time to keep it looking fresh. Durability is an important consideration in your fence latch. This is an attractive option because it can also be self-latching, meaning that if the door gets captured by the wind and closed the arm should fall into place on its own without any outside intervention. In short, the category your gate latch falls into will depend on what mechanisms it uses to make the gate latch. A second benefit of this locking system is that its very easy to install. Once the latch hits the strike plate, the gate is considered to be locked and closed. Price wise, iron options run between $20 and $100 depending on the size, shape, and intricacy of the design. When you pick from this category, youre going to focus on your aesthetic preferences more than anything else. The gate latch category refers to how the latch is designed. IMG_1873 by Giles Moss / CC BY-NC-ND 2.0. This is possible because the stainless steel gets covered in a colored powder coating. Lets look closer at the gravity, spring loaded, and bolt options and discuss how each works. Also referred to as a toggle-style latch, a T-latch has a simple, self-closing mechanism that can easily be secured with a padlock. Another benefit is that this style is very aesthetically pleasing, and it goes with many decor types. On the street side, youll install a backplate with a ring on it, and on the yard side, you will also have the backplate and ring, but the ring will be attached to a latch arm. Rubbing it monthly with a lubricating oil will give it another layer of protection against the elements and eliminate any annoying squeaking during use. Youll also only be able to slide the bolt closed on one side unless you have a setup where you can reach over and unbolt it from the other side. As a bonus, you can also find stainless steel options in several different colors. A gate stop is a mechanism that you install to stop the door from swinging wildly and damaging the latch arm or hinges over time. Some homeowners have their barrier for privacy or to keep in animals, while others value the additional level of defense it offers their home. Always installed as a double-sided mechanism, you can purchase one that is lockable for added security. Larger openings of 10 feet or more typically require hardware thats more prominent to best compliment the design. Online hardware retailers are the best places to look at options to complete your fencing project. It is also lockable in order to comply with current safety regulations. You might be able to snag a copper design for around $25, but expect to pay closer to $75 on average for something crafted with this metal. While you can purchase designs in the traditional shiny silver color of the metal, they are also often powder coated to coordinate with other fence hardware in more rustic colors like black. If you pick this one, it can come with a lock to increase your security measures. If youre more concerned about the final look of your fence, you may want to pay a little more to have a bronze latch installed. Now that you understand the different lock types, materials, and how they each work, here are a few additional questions to ask that may affect your buying decision. Now that you have a decent grasp on the main gate latch types, materials, and how they work, there are a few things you should consider when you start shopping for your new latch to make sure you get the correct one. Each of these styles can be made from several of the materials we discussed above and may use one or several of the locking mechanisms we mentioned previously. Especially intricate or ornate craftsmanship could cost as much as $500. So, that means that latches made out of this material will be extremely strong. Aso, they are very cost-effective while coming in a range of options. However, as Hoover Fence notes, these latches aren't usually lockable, and care should be taken to ensure children don't trap their fingers in the moving parts. Follow the manufacturer specifications to allow for seasonal movement, and choose hardware that was crafted specifically for the material you have on your outdoor gate. Also, this option is a lot more protective than other options. Most of these latch styles are gravity latches. It also operates very similarly to it, even if they have differences. Where helpful to the reader, some posts may contain links to products. Only you can determine how much additional security you want to add to your clamp. Brass is one of the least conventional materials used in outdoor gate catches, but if you like the look of a traditional or colonial design, its a great choice. They are a one-way lock that will keep a single side of the gate shut when you activate the bolt. All you have to do is push down on the thumb depressor and pull the door open. If youre on a tighter budget, you may go for an aluminum latch material over this one due to the price without sacrificing durability. Matching the gate latch type with your preferences and needs is one way to ensure that you get something that is going to last for years with minimal upkeep. You can look for lockable designs, or add a second deadbeat or slide bolt to the barrier if you want it to be impenetrable. As the door closes, the arm hits the strike, which then rises and falls onto the catch on its own. The biggest benefit of picking out this material is that it is very naturally-resistant to corrosive chemicals and elements. Lockable models cost the most, and some will require a separate padlock or combination lock to operate. However, this is also an upside for security purposes, but it can be annoying if you have to enter and exit the area several times a day. This gate latch type is very similar to the ring latch. Youll want to follow the carpenters golden rule and measure twice and cut once before drilling any holes into your wood, but the project should be straightforward. Is Black Locust Firewood Good for Fires? Gate Latch by Can Pac Swire / CC BY-NC 2.0. Be sure to do your research to understand how these questions may factor into your final buying decision. Typically, latches are either one-way, which means they can only be opened from the inside, or two-way, in which they can also be opened from the outside. Also, when you read through the manual, make sure that you have the necessary tools. The reason that its been popular for so long is that its heavy, strong, and attractive-looking. It has a simple self-closing mechanism that uses the weight of the closing gate to secure the arm within a metal catch. However, all have one common feature:the latching mechanism is held in place with a spring. The functionality is the biggest benefit of this latch too. The biggest benefit of this latch is that its very easy to use. Your front door and the internal doors in your home wont have these same responses to the heat, weather, and moisture in the air. The ring option is a two-sided design that is operable from either side of the gate. The biggest benefit of this gate latch type is that it is self-latching. They can either be modern and contemporary in style or have a traditional, rustic appearance. Generally, gravity based designs are easy do it yourself project to install. Once you do, the door will open if you push it. Depending on which gravity model you choose and how many installation modifications you want to make, it can be an easy job or one that requires more time and effort. If your enclosure has two moving doors, youll need to make a few additional design decisions to make your latch both functional and aesthetically pleasing. It has a rich history that dates back to the Old World, and its still in use today. If you want to be able to open the gate from the outside, two-way options are available, and most can be locked using a padlock. Powdered coated models are available, which give them an extra layer of protection if you live in a corrosive environment like near the beach. There are a few additional factors to keep in mind when youre shopping for the right latch for your yard. Whichever way you prefer, you can easily open it from either side of the door. The biggest potential drawback to the material is that brass will tarnish over time. The most common type of latch is a gravity latch, also known as a fingertip release latch. Broken hinges or latch arms mean youll need to replace the entire hardware package to get your door functioning again. Balcony vs Porch vs Patio vs Deck vs Veranda Explained, 19 Types of Sheds for Storage and Projects, 15 Deck Alternative Options That are Better Than Wood, Best Pressure Washer for Your Siding and Deck, The Best Hot Tub Enclosures for Your Backyard Oasis. They don't usually include a locking mechanism; however, some models can be secured with a padlock. Once you have everything you need, you can start the installation process. Its very similar to aluminum. When you pick a category for your gate latch, youll instantly narrow down your search criteria and make it easier to select the one that is going to work best for your needs. They can also be installed on both in and out-swinging gates and may use gravity assistance or spring loaded technology to get the job done. Inside the three categories we touched on above, you can break it down further. Usually used in modern and contemporary designs, its highly rust resistant and youll usually see it in its raw silver form. A gate stop is exactly what it sounds like. Generally, aluminum options are the least expensive of the bunch, but that wont limit your style choices. If you have a fence and gate made from chainlinks,Bob Vila recommends using a butterfly latch. When you dont press down on the thumb depressor, the latch will fall and lock your gate. There are many different options when youre in the market for a way to secure your fence. Some materials look nicer than others, and some come with a higher price point attached because theyre designed to be more durable and last much longer. If you leave the metal to age naturally, it will darken over time to a dark copper penny color and then will eventually evolve into a faded green. The materials they are most commonly crafted from are high-quality metals that do well outdoors and can stand up to the elements. Depending on the style and manufacturer you purchase from, installation difficulty can range from straightforward and simple to complex. Also, the cost can vary significantly between material types. What Is a Veranda? Its a mechanism that you install to prevent your door from swinging wildly and damaging your hinges or latch arm over time. AMF Magnetics points out that this type of latch is ideally suited to outdoor use as it is resistant to corrosion and water damage. You can even add a bolt gate to both an out and in-swinging fence door, and this makes this gate latch type more functional and versatile than others. This protects against damage on a windy day when the force of the breeze may push the fence further than its designed to go which could result in damage. When you install your gravity gate latch, youll install it on the inside of the door. In normal conditions, iron lasts a long time and offers a good value for its price. Stainless steel is another popular option when it comes to gate latch types. If you want to secure a gate that accesses a swimming pool, American Home Shield warns that it must be child-proof. Once you do, the arm will lift out of the catch and allow you to go through the door. Remember, if you have the bolt locked on one side, you wont be able to get in from the opposite end unless you can reach up and over to disengage the lock. 19 Types of Sheds for Storage and Projects Of course, you could spend a lot more for intricate details and design, but this is a mid-level option in terms of cost. If youre looking for products that offer an additional layer of security, or have fencing that serves a special purpose, there are gate catches that may be a better fit for you. You can further break down the categories into four specific types, and this allows you to compare similar lock styles quickly and easily to speed up your shopping experience. Youll typically find these latches on in-swinging doors, but you can do a reverse installation and put them on out-swinging doors. Next, its important to choose a material that works with your existing fence, and that provides the level of security you desire. Its an ideal choice because its much more secure than other choices. This style can have spring loaded or gravity lock activations. 15 Deck Alternative Options That are Better Than Wood Also, the front and internal doors in your home dont have the same response to weather, heat, and moisture content in the air. Just like youd get from the name, these latches use gravity to close. These are mounted on both sides of the gate and can often be locked from the inside. Because of this, you should have no problem for years with this gate latch type. Additionally, they are highly versatile and can be installed on both in- and out-swinging gates. They can add another layer of protection to the latch itself, and they also change the color of the material. You may choose it if youre trying to get a colonial or traditional look to your home, or if you like the heavy metal feel that brass can give you. This makes it very simple to use. As such, traditional door hardware isnt designed to combat these potential problems. Most designs with locking options will feature a hole where you can insert a padlock. You should also note that wood has a different installation method over iron, aluminum, steel, or other metals. The pivoting latch bolt engages in a heavy-duty polymer housing and has adjustable brackets that can be moved both horizontally and vertically to prevent sticking or binding. If you want to prevent the green tinge, you can apply a coat of wax once a year to protect the metal and enhance its lifespan. This gate latch type works just like you imagine it would. So, it can easily hold both pets and children into your fenced-in space more effectively while making it easy for adults to come and go. These are a few of our favorites that offer affordable options in a variety of designs. Theyre also usually very ornate when you compare them to traditional gate latch types, and most of the latches get specially designed with high-end and artistic looks in mind. They can be mounted horizontally or vertically and can be installed on any kind of gate material. Thumb latches are generally traditional in style and are commonly made from black iron or bronze. 35 Cheap Patio Cover Ideas The stopper forms a boundary that your door cant go past. This inexpensive addition can cost less than $20 but is a good investment if you want a guarantee against possible costly repairs down the road. So, whenever you close the gate or the wind comes up and blows it shut, the latch will lock by itself without any influence from you. You have several different gate latch types to choose from when you start to shop, so knowing which one is the best choice can be a challenging task. Aluminium is silver, but you can easily get different aluminum gate latch types in different colored powder if the silver color doesnt match your look. The biggest downside of this latch is that it can be a little more challenging to open the fence doors since its a one-sided lock. However, this is a very expensive latch type to have, and its easily one of the most expensive picks on the list because its a more high-end option. When you install your gate latch type, you want to take a close look at the instructions attached to the latch itself. So, its a great pick for anyone who is on a tight budget. D&D Technologies notes that a toggle latch is a modern iteration of a gravity latch with the added benefit of helping overcome gate sag or ground movement. 9 Attractive Patio Surfaces Remember that adding a lock will add another step between moving in and out of your boundary, but it may be worth it. So, traditional door hardware isnt designed to work with these issues. Closing the door is a little more involved since it depends if your gate latch type is a spring loaded or gravity-based one. Beachfront or seaside homeowners may want to shop for another material as the salt in the air and water could cause the mechanism to rust prematurely. The metal ages well, and doesnt require a powder coat to finish it, which eliminates the risk of chipping or the need to refinish it over time.