While gate latches might not be the first thing that comes to mind when you’re building or upgrading your home, the right type plays a crucial role. The right gate latch and locking mechanism are a simple way to enhance safety and securing, and your peace of mind.
Latches have come a long way since the simple gravity latch you likely grew up with. Now, engineers secure gates with everything from magnets to spring-loaded pistons. Knowing which latch best fits your situation takes some research and industry knowledge.
Before you head to your local fencing dealer for parts, take a few minutes to learn the lingo. We’ll walk you through the different types available and which might be the best fit for your project.
Understanding Different Gate Latch Types
At its core, the gate latch is a mechanism designed to keep your gate closed. Some are more complicated than others, and some are more secure than others. Deciding which gate latch type fits your needs depends on how you want it to function in your daily life.
Classic Latches
Gravity Latches are easy to install and operate, making them one of the most common. Designed with a post-mounted catch and gate-mounted metal arm, users can usually operate the catch with one finger. To engage the catch, simply shut the gate, and the catch secures the metal arm on the gate. Lockable with a padlock, gravity latches are typically one-way latches.
Nationwide Industries® NW6100 Two Way Gravity Latch
Spring-loaded Latches use a spring to help make the latching mechanism in this latch type more efficient. They come in a variety of designs but all use a spring to help keep the latch in place. Some have a spring-loaded bolt while others have a spring-loaded catch that snaps shut automatically. Most don’t include a locking mechanism and they are typically one-way latches.
Nationwide Industries® NW6283 Hidden Spring Latch
Bolt Latches, patterned after deadbolts, work simply with a post-mounted catch and a gate-mounted bolt. They are typically one-way latches and can usually be locked with a padlock.
Nationwide Industries® SV38308 Standard Gate Latch
Thumb Latches are usually designed as two-way latches. A classic design, they’re usually mounted so users can operate from either side. Typically lockable from the inside, a simple thumb latch lifts the arm from the catch.
Nationwide Industries® NW38306 Ornamental Thumb Latch
Modern Latches
Side or Top Pull Latches use modern materials like nylon for the body of the latch and metal for the locking pin. A simple, spring-loaded pull knob removes the locking pin from the catch and snaps back when closed. Usually lockable with a key, they do a good job of keeping little ones and pets where you want them.
Nationwide Industries® CL-7240 20” Top Pull Gravity Latch
Magnetic Latches are frequently used around swimming pools and other areas where security is important. They incorporate a powerful magnetic force to hold the gate closed and can incorporate lights and sound alarms, making them ideal for areas where you need higher security.
Nationwide Industries® ArmorLatch® rethinks magnetic latches for typical horizontal alignment. Top pull magnetic latches tend to follow a vertical orientation. ArmorLatch® incorporates magnetic latching power with lockable handle latches. For enhanced security, this product is lockable from both sides of the gate and reversible for left or right-handed orientation.
Nationwide Industries® TRIDENT Magnetic Pool Latch
Toggle Latches are a contemporary update to the classic Gravity Latch. They use modern materials like glass-filled nylon for enhanced strength and durability. Most are lockable and provide more security than the traditional metal version.
Nationwide Industries® Keystone® Traverse Series
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Gate Latch
Choosing a gate latch type that fits your needs begins with the fence itself.
Fence Types
Manufacturers typically create different hardware for different fencing materials. Wood, vinyl, ornamental, chain link, and composites all have specific requirements for gate latches.
Gate Types
Beyond the fence material itself, different types of gates require different hardware. Swinging gates and sliding gates are common and both require different gate latches. When choosing gate hardware, consider your options carefully.
Nationwide Industries® Gate Hardware Kits have everything you need for common fence and gate types!
Gate Latch Materials
Because latches are constantly exposed to the elements, it’s vital that they’re constructed from materials meant to last. Classic gate latches are made from steel with anti-corrosive coatings and finishes, bronze, cast iron, aluminum, and brass.
Modern gate latches incorporate materials like glass-filled nylon and other polymers for lightness and corrosion resistance.
Safety and Security Considerations for Gate Latches
Incorporating a locking mechanism into your gate hardware choices is worth considering to enhance safety and security. Classic latches are typically compatible with padlocks but modern locks offer other choices.
Keyed locks are commonly incorporated into contemporary latches. Some, like the Nationwide Industries® Keystone® Traverse, offer two-way installation for convenience.
Keyless locks are even more secure and convenient when paired with modern materials. Mechanical locks, like those from LockeyUSA, incorporate push-button codes to operate the locking mechanism. Especially common in multi-family units, they allow anyone with the code easy access through the gate.
Around pools, top-pull magnetic latches provide a necessary deterrent to pets and children. Some incorporate keyed and keyless locks as well for enhanced security. Safety features like audible alarms and visual strobes make the Trident™ Safe Signal™ Magnetic Pool Latch one of the best pool latches on the market.
When choosing the right gate latch type, Nationwide Industries® has you covered!
The right gate hardware can make all the difference in how you interact with your gate. It can either be a source of frustration or give a sense of safety and security.
Check out the full line of latches at Nationwide Industries® and reach out to a dealer today!