What are Some of the Standard Gate Latch Options?

Gate hardware is an often overlooked part of the fence system.  Folks are often unaware of what gate latch options there are even available to them.  There are a couple basic styles that we offer.

Check out our video we did showing each gate latch in operation as well and the details and pictures that follow under the video!

://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Kcl0voNvEK4

Gravity Latch

This is the workhorse of gate latches.  Unless you specify otherwise, this is the standard latch that we supply with all gates.  The arm typically goes on the gate frame and the clasp on your post.  When the gate is swung shut, it will knock the clasp up and then it falls behind the arm holding the gate shut.  A small padlock can be put through it to keep a gate secured.  This style of latch is used on many kinds of gates is widely available through regular hardware stores.  It works well on both single and double gates and should fit a gate of any size.  A quality gravity latch will be made entirely of steel.

 

SafeTech Cobra Latch

This is a variant of the gravity latch, but adds a key and push button operation.  The body is plastic and the internals are metal.  The arm goes on the gate frame and the clasp on the post.  When the arm hits the clasp, it will lock shut.  If the gate is unlocked, you pull the open button and it releases the clasp.  If the key is turned, then it is locked and will not open without using the key again.  These models are typically only available through fence and gate dealers.  This style of latch works well on single and double gates and should fit a gate of any size.

 

Safetech Pool Gate Latch

These are often listed as a ‘pool latch’.  The gate is opened by pulling or turning a knob at the top of the latch.  This is to keep the opening mechanism out of the reach of children who would be able to gain access to the pool and possibly drown.  These are also only available through dealers for the most part.  These are typically bought to comply with pool code.  They work best on single gates.  These latches are keyed so that the latch can be locked when not in use.  They have a plastic body and metal internals.

 

Locinox Ornamental Latch

This is a double handled latch that is key lockable.  However, this unit is all metal and more secure.  It is much more tamper-proof as all the mounting hardware cannot be accessed with the gate closed.  These are typically only available through dealers as well.  It has a handle for each side of the gate, is key-lockable and features an all metal construction.  It is the nicest latch we offer.

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There are other options out there, but these are the most readily available and work the best for the price.  If you need something different, let us know what you are looking for!  We probably have an option that can fill your needs.