Different Gate Latch Types (Everything You Need To Know)

Are you considering fencing and installing gates in your home? Maybe you are planning on giving your old gate a new look? If this is you then you need to know that picking the right type of gate latch is crucial to the success of the project.

To ensure you select the best latch type for your gate, you need to know that these latches for gates are categorized based on the material type, functionality, and design.

Gate latches come in different types that feature components and mechanisms suitable for a number of purposes. Here, we discuss and review three categories of gate latches; basing them on material type, functionality, and design. You’ll have no problem choosing the best type of gate latch that will suit your needs.

Gate Latch Types Based on Material

Gate latch types that fall under this category include:

• Iron gate latch
• Brass gate latch
• Stainless steel gate latch
• Bronze gate latch

1. Iron Gate Latch

One of the most popular and practical gate latch materials is iron, which can take the form of cast iron and wrought iron. Iron is a hard substance, and you may protect it from moisture and corrosion by powder coating it.

2. Brass Gate Latch

Brass gate latches are a fantastic choice if you want something opulent and stylish. Because of their weight, you won’t be worried about the wind removing the latch. But they do lose their shine over time and get tarnished.

3. Stainless Steel Gate Latch

Stainless steel is a terrific alternative for gate latch types if you want a clean, contemporary appearance. Stainless steel has smooth edges and always gives off a sheen. However, if you reside in a region where the air contains salt, this gate latch type may not be suitable.

4. Bronze Gate Latch

Bronze is an excellent material to take into consideration. Since it won’t rust, this is especially beneficial if you reside near the coast. Additionally, because bronze locks are uncoated, there is no need to worry about them chipping.

Despite being the most expensive alternative, they are sturdy and fashionable.

Gate Latch Types Based on Functionality

This category includes gate latch types such as:

• Bolt latch
• Gravity latch
• Spring-loaded latch

1. Bolt Latch

When using this standard deadbolt, the door closes by attaching the rod inside the bolt. This option is the easiest and least complicated to install because it has a one-sided latch that can lock from the inside.

You can install bolt latches on fences that swing in or out, which might be lockable if a padlock is attached. Also, these typically offer the best value because they are available in different sizes and materials.

2. Gravity Latch

These latches use gravity as a locking mechanism. It is a desirable choice since it can be self-latching, which implies that if the door is caught in the wind and closes, the arm should shut automatically and without assistance from anybody else.

Gravity gate latches are easy to use. However, the basic model offers little security. If you want the barrier impenetrable, search for lockable designs or add a side bolt or deadbolt.

3. Spring-Loaded Latch

They use a spring to make the closing process easier. Spring types offer a sleeker motion on the handle whenever you open or shut the barrier and generally cost more than gravity models.

Always having two sides, spring-loaded latches enable door opening from either side. They are also available in lockable kinds and can fit on in-swinging gates, but you may also install them in opposite ways for out-swinging gates if necessary.

Gate Latch Types Based on Design

Types of gate latches in this category are:

• Ring latch
• Lever latch
• Thumb latch
• Side pull latch
• Toggle style latch (T-latch)
• Butterfly latch
• Magnetic latch

1. Ring Latch

Due to their conventional, rustic appearance, ring latches are frequently used on wooden gates. It often has a cast iron construction and a huge, elaborate handle shaped like a ring on either side.

The ring latch has a two-sided construction and attaches to both sides of the gate. Both inward and outward swinging gates can use this model, which comes with gravity or spring-loaded mechanisms.

2. Lever Latch

Lever latches resemble ring latches, except they contain a lever handle that raises in place of the ring. Lever latches come in a wide variety of designs and materials to match contemporary or classic fence styles.

You can fit them on inward and outward swinging gates. They work with either spring-loaded or gravity-assisted technology and have lever alternatives that you can lock and those that cannot.

3. Thumb Latch

We advise using a thumb latch if you want to be able to open the fence gate both from the inside and outside. These are installed on either side of the gate and are frequently lockable from the inside.

The thumb latch is a type of gravity latch that operates when the thumb depressor, positioned on the decorative surface on the door’s exterior, is pressed. The inside latch arm raises by pressing down, allowing you to open the gate.

4. Side Pull Latch

Another great choice, if you have kids or pets, is a side pull latch. They work by pulling the locking pin from the catch using a spring-loaded latching mechanism. They can be fitted on any type of gate material and mounted horizontally or vertically.

For better security, you can shut some varieties with a key. However, you can only mount them on the inside of a gate, which is a drawback.

5. Toggle Style Latch (T-Latch)

The T-latch has a simple, self-closing mechanism that you can easily secure with a padlock or key. It is a more advanced version of a gravity latch that also aids in preventing gate sagging or ground motion.

The latch bolt has adjustable brackets that may be adjusted vertically and horizontally to avoid binding or sticking.

6. Butterfly Latch

This type of latch is a good option if your gate and fence are constructed with chainlink. Like the gravity latch, the butterfly latch contains a basic self-closing mechanism that enables the gate to open inward and outward.

Be aware that these latches aren’t often lockable, and you should watch kids whenever they’re at the gate to prevent their fingers from getting trapped in the moving pieces.

7. Magnetic Latch

A magnetic latch can be an option if you seek a more advanced solution. This latch is perfect for outdoor use because it is water and rust-resistant.

Without apparent fasteners, magnetic latches open and close from both sides of the gate. They have a variety of contemporary finishes to match your outdoor fixtures and are pretty secure.

Questions to Ask Yourself Before Choosing a Gate Latch

Now that you are familiar with the various latch types and how they operate, you should ask a few more questions that could influence your selection.

1. How Much Security Do You Want?

Only you know how much more security you would like to add to your space. For example, some property owners use their barriers to keep pets inside or maintain their privacy, while others like the extra security it provides for their residences.

Buying a gate latch with a lock is the most popular approach to increase security. You can choose a design that includes a key, a padlock, or a combination lock.

2. What Gate Type Do You Have?

The most common gate types homeowners use are sliding and swing gates. If you have a gate with two sliding doors, you’ll need to make a few more design choices for your latch to be both efficient and aesthetically pleasing.

3. What Is Your Budget?

Budgeting for this security or aesthetic update should be simple, unlike some complex home design projects. First, consider the price of the latch itself and any other supplies or tools you’ll need for installation.

You might discover that after upgrading your catch mechanism, you desire handles and hinges that complement the new finish. Take it into consideration and give room to update your other hardware as well if you prefer your outdoor fixtures to match.

4. Have You Considered the Ease and Cost of Installation?

When selecting a gate latch, you should consider the installation process’s complexity. If installing your selected latch is a simple task, you can accomplish it using basic tools.

However, if you want a professional finish, you might need to pay an expert to complete the task. Therefore, you should factor that into your budget, as it should only cost you a few dollars.

Final Thoughts

Although some latch types can take longer to install since you have to fix them on both sides of the door, all of the gate latch types mentioned above are simple to install.

We’re happy to answer your questions to help you make the right choice of gate latch to purchase. Feel free to leave a comment below.