Are you looking to add fencing to the perimeter of your property? Using the gate accessories including garden gate latches, Suffolk latch and many more helps to improve curb appeal. But it is really important to use wooden garden gates that need to be secured. As you know, security is one of the main reasons to install a gate and fencing. Especially, when it comes to garden gate locks for timber gates. Due to this, there are many possibilities, and each one has advantages.
In this article, we are going to tell you some of the most popular choices. You will get benefits after implementing our opinions. As technology changes, a key less combination lock for your garden gate is the best option.
Learn about the Different Gate Latches
In the market, If you’re looking for a means to secure your fence, you have a lot of possibilities. It is important to be familiar with the different types of latches that are available and how each model operates. It is really crucial to pick a material that complements your current fence. In addition, you will get the level of security that you want. With these aspects, you are able to decide which type is best for your access point.
1. Gravity
The latch refers to the fact that it closes the catch using gravity. It functions by using the swing’s force to drive the latch arm past the strike plate as the barrier closes. This will allow the arm to fall into the catch.
This is really an appealing choice and has the potential to be self-latching. If the door is caught in the wind and closes, the latch should engage on its own. There is no need for any outside assistance.
Generally, models that rely on gravity are always two-sided since they require the arm to fall into the strike in order to function. You may open it from either side of the door on a wooden barricade. The option is easy to use, however, the fundamental model offers little security. If you want the barrier to be impenetrable, search for lockable designs. Also, you can add a second deadbolt or slide bolt.
The majority of locking alternatives will have a hole where a padlock can be inserted. If you want to use this feature, you’ll either need to carry a key or memorise a combination. Double-sided gravity designs with an in-swinging option are typically used for installation purposes. In order to use it with an out-swinging door, reverse the installation and place the arm on the street side.
Depending on the gravity model you should select and the number of installation alterations. In general, installing gravity-based designs is really simple to do.
2. Spring-Loaded
Different from its gravity-loaded cousins, spring-loaded variants use a spring to help with the closing operation. When you open or close the barrier, spring types offer a smoother motion on the handle but are typically more expensive than a gravity option.
The latch arm snaps into place by applying pressure to the spring that attaches the arm, which activates the spring mechanism. Options with spring-loaded latches are always two-sided.
There are lockable variations of these two-way types that enable the door to be opened from either side.
Similar to gravity models, spring-loaded latches are most frequently used on an in-swinging option. But if necessary, you may install them in the opposite direction for an out-swinging gate. Keep in mind, installation complexity might range from easy and simple to challenging. This will depend on the design and manufacturer you choose.
3. Bolt
Many individuals believe that a bolt latch is used to secure their fence. The typical deadbolt mechanism involves slipping the rod into the locking bolt and subsequently securing the door. Being a one-sided latch that can only be locked from the inside.
You may be surprised to know, this option is the easiest to install and lockable with the addition of a padlock. They can be attached to fences that swing inward or outward. These are often the most economical models and are available in different sizes and materials.
4. Stainless
If we talk about aluminium, its distant relative is stainless steel. Stainless steel, which resembles aluminium in appearance, is a generally heavier metal that is stronger. It is less likely to dent, warp, or bend when exposed to pressure or heat.
No doubt, it is slightly more expensive, but it is a good material option for a strong fence catch.
It’s highly rust-resistant and frequently used in modern and contemporary designs. In general, you’ll typically see it in its raw silver form.
If you live in a corrosive location, such as close to the seaside, you can choose from models. These models have been powder-coated, and have an extra layer of protection. This is to keep the coating appearing new, you might need to retouch it from time to time.
You should maintain the metal for it to last longer. There is an extra layer of defence from the elements to get rid of any bothersome squeaking. Especially if you rub it down with lubricating oil once a month.
5. Brass
Brass is one of the less-known materials that is used in outdoor gate catches. But it’s a terrific option if you enjoy the appearance of a traditional or colonial design. This is really a nice design element for the closing and feels substantial in your hands.
You should know that brass will tarnish with time, which is the material’s biggest possible flaw. It’s crucial to carefully maintain the surface to prolong the life of the mechanism. Maintaining the integrity of the lock is made possible by routinely cleaning it with a brass cleaner. This coating metal is available with a UV-resistant urethane clear coating.
6. Thumb
Only if your gate opens inwards do you have the option of using the thumb style. You can choose one that is lockable for additional security that is always placed as a double-sided mechanism. The thumb depressor on the decorative plate installed on the outside of the door must be depressed in order for this model to operate.
The latch arm on the inside lifts when you push down, enabling you to open the gate. The arm strikes the strike as the door closes, and it rises and falls by itself onto the catch. This model suggests that it is a gravity latch.
7. Ring
This product has a two-sided ring option and can be operated from either side of the gate. Install a backplate with a ring on the street side, and install a backplate and ring in the yard area. The door can swing open by lifting the arm out of the catch by turning the ring on either side of the ring.
This design can be applied to both inward and outward swinging gates. Even more, it can be spring-loaded or gravity-assisted. You should make sure that the latch arm is installed on the side that the gate swings toward when it opens.
8. Lever
The operation of lever designs is almost identical to that of a ring option. Furthermore, except on each side of the barrier, there is a lever handle rather than a ring.
They can be fitted on both inward- and outward-swinging gates. They can work with either spring-loaded or gravity-assisted technology. There are also lever alternatives that can be locked and those that cannot.
Final Thoughts
While selecting the gate latch you need to know the material and its type as per the need. Moreover, depending on the material, gate latches fall into one of three primary kinds.
You should examine the gravity, spring-loaded, and bolt in detail and talk about how each one functions. You can easily find their ironmongery products such as garden gate latches, gate locks, Suffolk latch and many more in hardware stores. In order to find out where you can purchase these products you can type Google “Where to Buy”.
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