sliding gate latch types

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The latch is named for its operation mechanism, and as such it uses gravity to close the catch. AMF Magnetics points out that this type of latch is ideally suited to outdoor use as it is resistant to corrosion and water damage. If you need to open the gate from both the outside and the inside, Gardenista recommends using a thumb latch. Typically more expensive than a gravity option, spring models provide a smoother action on the handle when you open or close the barrier. Also, the front and internal doors in your home dont have the same response to weather, heat, and moisture content in the air. 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. They don't usually include a locking mechanism; however, some models can be secured with a padlock. This is possible because the stainless steel gets covered in a colored powder coating. There are many different options when youre in the market for a way to secure your fence. The spring-loaded gate latch type is another popular class. 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. Most designs with locking options will feature a hole where you can insert a padlock. If you live in these areas, its a good idea to pick out another material to ensure that it lasts. From a price standpoint, expect to invest $30 to $75 into a high-quality product. 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. If necessary, additional bolts can be added to the bottom of a gate for security. Remember that adding a lock will add another step between moving in and out of your boundary, but it may be worth it. The Best Hot Tub Enclosures for Your Backyard Oasis, What Is a Veranda? These are usually made from galvanized steel and are attached directly to the framework of a gate or fence. However, you can also purchase lockable levers to negate this. Its a popular choice for those with high-end design taste because it looks beautiful and feels dense to the touch. Its very similar to aluminum. A lot of people pick out this latch if they want to keep their children or pets inside of a fenced in space. Additionally, they are often made from durable polymer plastics with a stainless steel locking pin, which makes them corrosion-resistant. Closing the door is a little more involved since it depends if your gate latch type is a spring loaded or gravity-based one. It also operates very similarly to it, even if they have differences. Its an ideal choice because its much more secure than other choices. Youll typically find these latches on in-swinging doors, but you can do a reverse installation and put them on out-swinging doors. Some homeowners have their barrier for privacy or to keep in animals, while others value the additional level of defense it offers their home. 19 Types of Sheds for Storage and Projects They work by sliding a bolt into a catch, and some choices have room for a padlock to secure the fence. In normal conditions, iron lasts a long time and offers a good value for its price. The metal typically receives a powder-black coating to give it a layer of protection against the outdoor elements, but it may not be a good choice if you live in a location with a lot of corrosive elements. This gate latch type will only work with an in-swinging gate style. While it might be tempting to use traditional door hardware on your outdoor gate, its not recommended by the experts. As a bonus, you can also find stainless steel options in several different colors. Especially intricate or ornate craftsmanship could cost as much as $500. Youll find a price difference between each of the substances, and here well give you the pros and cons on iron, aluminum, bronze, stainless, and brass designs. 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. Next, its important to choose a material that works with your existing fence, and that provides the level of security you desire. A second benefit of this locking system is that its very easy to install. Home Awakening noted that lever latches offer several benefits. So, that means that latches made out of this material will be extremely strong. The ring option is a two-sided design that is operable from either side of the gate. These complications could lead to the mechanism not catching properly and not holding closed during the dry, hot months of summer. The biggest downside of iron is that its not very long-lasting when you have it exposed to corrosive environments like the beach or on the seaside. It can also protect a double or rolling gate from crashing into each other when closing. From the outside, there is a decorative handle with a small, thumb-activated push button that lifts the latch arm from its cradle. Were going to outline both classes with pricing, materials, and more below. Spring-loaded latches come in various forms,notes Worst Room Home Design. Most fences and gates tend to be made from metal or wood, and choosing the correct hardware will not only create the right aesthetic but will also provide the necessary level of security, notes360 Yardware. 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. Common materials for gate latches are iron, stainless steel, aluminum, bronze, and brass. Most of these latch styles are gravity latches. The biggest benefit of picking out this material is that it is very naturally-resistant to corrosive chemicals and elements. 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. If you have two or more moving doors, youll have to factor design decisions into which gate latch type you pick out to ensure that its both aesthetically pleasing and functional. 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. While you may enjoy the aged look, its important to diligently maintain the surface to preserve the life of the mechanism. What Are The Different Types Of Gate Latches. Your front door and the internal doors in your home wont have these same responses to the heat, weather, and moisture in the air. Is Black Locust Firewood Good for Fires? Always installed as a double-sided mechanism, you can purchase one that is lockable for added security. It has a simple self-closing mechanism that uses the weight of the closing gate to secure the arm within a metal catch. Almost every gate latch type on the list comes with a lockable feature, and you can add a padlock for more protection. This style can have spring loaded or gravity lock activations. If youre after something to improve your security, or you have a fence that serves a specific purpose like to go around the pool, there are gate latch types that may serve you better than others. 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. However, you do need to clean it regularly using steel wool and spray it with a protectant. Spring loaded varieties differ from their gravity counterparts because they utilize a spring to facilitate the closing action. 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. You can avoid it getting this green coloring by applying a wax coating on an annual basis. However, its possible to reverse the installation and put the arm on the street side to use it with an out-swinging door. If you install traditional door hardware during the dry summer months, you may discover that over a wet winter the gate swells slightly and no longer catches properly. The traditional deadbolt design works by sliding the rod into the securing bolt that then holds the door in place. Balcony vs Porch vs Patio vs Deck vs Veranda Explained Powdered coated models are available, which give them an extra layer of protection if you live in a corrosive environment like near the beach. Bolt designs are both classic and a bit old-fashioned and are one-way options. 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. The coating helps to protect your latch from rust and elemental corrosion. A swimming pool latch is usually designed for an outwardly opening gate and has a long shaft so that you can set the opener at a required minimum height. When it comes to securing your property and outdoor areas, the most common choice is some form of fence around the perimeter, which is accessed via a gate with a latch. Gravity based models are always two-sided because the arm must fall into the strike in order to operate. Durability is an important consideration in your fence latch. Ring latches are self-closing; however, if security is a concern, this isn't the best option as it rarely incorporates a locking mechanism. However, if you choose to get a latch that has a color painted on it, it can eventually chip. IMG_1873 by Giles Moss / CC BY-NC-ND 2.0. Best Pressure Washer for Your Siding and Deck Those looking for a more high-tech solution may want to consider a magnetic latch. When you turn the ring on either side, it lifts the arm out of the catch and allows the door to swing open. Larger openings of 10 feet or more typically require hardware thats more prominent to best compliment the design. This can save you on installation costs. Unlike some complex landscaping or home design projects, budgeting for this aesthetic or security upgrade should be easy. Most bronze designs are crafted with an element of artistry, and they feature traditional, contemporary, and old world elements. Installing a gate spot can also help your gate latch type last much longer than it originally would in this case. If you install normal door hardware during the drier summer months, youll notice that the wet wood in the winter expands slightly due to the moisture content. If youre worried about slowing down or stopping potential intruders, this isnt the gate latch type you want. If you have a fence and gate made from chainlinks,Bob Vila recommends using a butterfly latch. It will help to hold the door in place in virtually any scenario because the only way to move the rod is to lift it and slide it out of the latch. There are three main categories of gate latches you can choose from that are defined by how they are designed. If youre not a fan of the extra work, you should pick another material. When you dont press down on the thumb depressor, the latch will fall and lock your gate. Please note, wood will have different installation needs and requirements than metals like aluminum, iron, or steel. This protects it from damage when it gets windy out and the breezes force can push the fence much further than it gets designed to go. If youre not familiar with how seasonal wood movement works, let us explain. Iron is one of the most widely used latch materials and is crafted in a variety of ways including Old World, Antique, Colonial, and traditional styles. The gate latch categories typically refers to the latching mechanisms design, and the gate latch types refer to the style of the locking mechanism and the materials used in the design. Youll need to do regular maintenance, like using steel wool to clear away any rust spots and touching up with a protectant spray regularly to keep it looking new. Once you have everything you need, you can start the installation process. This is due to the fact that it doesnt come designed to handle seasonal wood movement, and its limited to working on doors or items with the traditional thickness levels. 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. These two-way models allow the door to be opened from either side, and there are lockable varieties available. Once the latch hits the strike plate, the gate is considered to be locked and closed. This type of latch operates by sliding a metal rod into a catch on the gatepost or frame. The downside is that its not a secure option. Some packages will also include handles and fixtures to complete the look of your outdoor boundary design. A second benefit of this material type is that it is very budget-friendly. Since the latch has to fall into this strike plate in order for it to lock, this gate latch type is always two-sided. The spring mechanism works when the latch arm snaps into place by pressure put on the spring that secures the arm. If this happens, youll have to repaint it. The biggest downside of this gate latch type is that it can be difficult to get back into your space if you accidentally lock yourself out. Nice Latch by uncoolbob / CC BY-NC 2.0. The spring gives you a much smoother closing action, but it also drives up the cost of the latch system. There are many different styles and materials of lever latches to suit modern or traditional fence designs. This gate latch type works just like you imagine it would. You can refresh how each works by looking back at the categories we touched on above. Side pull latches are another good option if you have pets or children, suggestsLocks 4 Gates. It is a more brittle material than iron, so you may want to invest in a gate stop to prevent everyday movement from putting undue stress on the latch arm which could cause breakage over time. This gate latch type is very similar to the ring latch. Best Faux Fireplace for Your Patio So, you can access your lever from both sides of the fence. The jarring movement can eventually cause the arm on your gate latch to break, bend, or sustain damage that interferes with how it operates. How this particular pick closes will depend on which gate latch category it falls into. 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. Depending on the style and manufacturer you purchase from, installation difficulty can range from straightforward and simple to complex. This is great if youre not trying to add layers of security to your home or yard. It works well because it has a thumb depressor and a latching mechanism. If you can follow instructions and have access to basic tools, you should be able to manage the installation of your new mechanism on your own. As the door closes, the arm hits the strike, which then rises and falls onto the catch on its own. 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. Youll also want to choose a latch that offers a complementary dummy handle on the fixed side to create symmetry to the look. While they are based on an old design, there are aesthetically pleasing options available. 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. 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. 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. To close the gate, you have to push the door shut without pressing on the thumb depressor. Rubbing it monthly with a lubricating oil will give it another layer of protection against the elements and eliminate any annoying squeaking during use. Where helpful to the reader, some posts may contain links to products. The most common type of latch is a gravity latch, also known as a fingertip release latch. The gravity will force the latch to fall into the plate whenever you release the pressure from the thumb depressor. This model can be either gravity assisted or spring loaded and may be used on both in and out-swinging gates. These types of latches are a good choice for in-swinging or double gates and are generally one-way. One of the main advantages of a deadbolt is that it is available in a wide range of designs and sizes. 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. Installing a gate stop, which we discuss in more detail below, will also help to preserve the life of your locking mechanism. Bass is a slightly less common material used for different gate latch types. Additionally, there are rigorous building codes that stipulate the size of the gate and the type of latch, which are devised to prevent accidental drownings. One of the least complex latches is a simple bolt. If youre not sure what we mean by seasonal wood movements, well explain it below. It has a rich history that dates back to the Old World, and its still in use today. Also, this option is a lot more protective than other options. You can spend as little as $5 on an aluminum design, or upwards of $20 depending on the style and features you require. These are a few of our favorites that offer affordable options in a variety of designs. Usually used in modern and contemporary designs, its highly rust resistant and youll usually see it in its raw silver form. They can be added to both in-swinging or out-swinging fences and may be lockable with the addition of a padlock. This locating may chip off over time from repeated use, but you can re-paint it with a product like Rustoleum to keep it looking new. This means that you can open the lock from either side without an issue in most instances. Most options fall into the gravity category. Weve outlined seven different gate latch types for you to consider for your next project. Both lightweight and durable, it has a natural resistance to corrosive elements and can be used in virtually any environment. 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. The biggest potential drawback to the material is that brass will tarnish over time. 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; } All you have to do is push down on the thumb depressor and pull the door open. 35 Cheap Patio Cover Ideas Bronze also ages very well, and it doesnt need any powder coating because itll naturally age with exposure to the elements. One of the most expensive materials of the bunch, bronze is a substantial material that ages well. Youll have to make a point to clean it regularly and apply a UV-resistant coating to the metal to keep it in good working order. Online hardware retailers are the best places to look at options to complete your fencing project. Manufacturers use both cast iron or wrought iron as it has a heavy, stately appearance that looks good against the fencing. 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. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. However, this same feature makes it less secure than other options, and this is a significant drawback. Magnetic latches operate and lock from both sides of the gate with no visible fasteners, according to Hoover Fence. Additionally, many of these latches come with additional locking options like space to put a padlock to make it even more secure and more difficult to open. 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. The biggest benefit of this gate latch type is that it is self-latching. Itll get darker over time, and itll eventually turn from a dark copper color to more of a dark green. It can also shield a rolling or double gate from crashing into one another when it closes. 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, traditional door hardware isnt designed to work with these issues. Double and sliding doors are notorious for banging together and placing undue pressure and stress on metal and materials that can lead to a malfunction or failure if not properly addressed. They can be mounted horizontally or vertically and can be installed on any kind of gate material. Just like youd get from the name, these latches use gravity to close. What Is a Veranda? You may need to re-touch the coating over time to keep it looking fresh. Sliding or double doors are notorious for banging together, and this puts a lot of stress on the materials and metal of the latch to lead to failure or malfunction if you dont address it. It can also pull them completely out of the post. On the outside of the fence, you can easily put the backplate with a ring on it, and the inside of the fence will have a backplate and a ring that attaches to the latch arm. The thumb style is an option only if you have an in-swinging gate. The stopper creates a boundary that your door cant travel beyond. 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. On a wooden barricade, you can open it from either side of the door. A lot of people choose other materials over brass because brass can tarnish over time. To open the door, all you do is turn the ring. Further, many can be locked with a key. Lever latches are very similar in design to a ring latch, except instead of a ring, they have either a handle or a lever that must be lifted. 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. Based on the way this model works, it is a gravity latch. The only thing you have to do is close it all of the way. Additionally, they are highly versatile and can be installed on both in- and out-swinging gates. Here well give you the specifics on how they work, and what fence types are best provided the installation requirements and limitations of each. Its usually one of the most cost-effective choices out of any of the materials in this list. Amazing Oblivious Headquarters by Hughes Umbanhowar Architects, Private Pop-Up Huts by Hughes Umbanhowar Architects, Homestratosphere's Editorial Staff & Writers. However, unlike the gravity system, this one has locking options, and this makes it more secure out of the two. 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. 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. If you would prefer to hire a handyman to do the job, it should take less than 30 minutes and cost less than $100 for a basic project. 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. For this reason, weve created a simple and straightforward guide to help you find the perfect gate latch type for your privacy fence, shed, or project. The secure side of the lock should be placed on the yard side of the door, away from the street and facing your home. There are a few additional factors to keep in mind when youre shopping for the right latch for your yard. If youre worried about wear and tear or corrosion, aluminum may be the best material for you. In addition, some latches are lockable with a key or a padlock, while different types of latches are needed for single or double gates, per Upgraded Home. One big benefit of this latch is that its very easy for adults to open but children can struggle with it. 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. Broken hinges or latch arms mean youll need to replace the entire hardware package to get your door functioning again. While the option is simple to use, the basic model doesnt provide much security. To open the door, all you have to do is open the lever. One downside, though, is that they can only be installed on the inside of a gate. 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. You can look for lockable designs, or add a second deadbeat or slide bolt to the barrier if you want it to be impenetrable. You should follow the manufacturers instructions to ensure it allows for seasonal movement, and you should pick out a gate latch type that is specifically made for an outdoor gate. So, youll be able to use it in virtually any planting zone without an issue. These are one-sided latches, and you can secure them from the inside. Since its very elegant and simple, its a great choice if youre concerned with appearances. 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. 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 can add another layer of protection to the latch itself, and they also change the color of the material. Some lever options may be lockable, and some are not. Bob Vila explains that ring latches work by twisting the ring, which raises a lever from the catch on the inside. Inside the three categories we touched on above, you can break it down further. Youll want to factor in the cost of the latch itself, as well as any additional tools or materials youll need for installation. Youll have to go over your fence, go through the house and around into your yard, or call and have someone come and open it for you for a fee. Crafted into the old world, antique, traditional, and modern designs the metal is both attractive and functional. When you push down on the setups thumb depressor, the latch will lift up and let you open your gate. Spring loaded options will always be two-sided. While it is a bit more expensive, its a good material choice for a durable fence catch. There is four main fence gate latch styles from which you can choose. Home Stratosphere points out that bolts are very easy to install and can be mounted on either side of the gate. One big reason why you may want this gate latch type is because its very easy to install, and virtually anyone will be able to install it themselves with little experience and minimal tools. Generally, gravity based designs are easy do it yourself project to install. The thumb gate latch type is very popular. The first category for latch gate types is a gravity gate latch. However, its a great investment to help prevent expensive repairs in the future. The biggest benefit of this latch is that its very easy to use. A ring latch is a common choice for wooden gates due to its traditional, rustic appearance. Best Portable Generator This way, you can open it should you have visitors or family stop by, but no one will be able to attempt to override the feature from the street. Outdoor wooden gates will expand and contract throughout the year with the changing of the seasons. When you install your gate latch type, you want to take a close look at the instructions attached to the latch itself. 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.

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