What are Some of the Standard Gate Latch Options?
An often overlooked part of the fence system, people are often unaware of what gate latch options there are available to them. There are a couple basic styles that we offer. Photos of each follow below in order of how they are listed:
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.
D+D Lokk Latch/ Safe-T-Lock Cobra Latch
Both of these are similar in construction and operation. It 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 push 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.
D+D Z-Lokk
This is a mechanical/ magnetic option with handles on both sides. It is also key lockable. The body is plastic and the internals are metal. Operation is the same as a lever handle on any internal or external house door. When you turn the handle down, the magnetic internals release and the gate can be pulled open. When you lock the latch with the key, it will not allow the gate to be opened. This is typically only available through dealers. This style of latch is good for single gates, but can be problematic with double gates. When flexing the two gate leafs, you may find the latch popping open. On a single gate, the post next to the gate is immobile and it works extremely well.
D+D Magna Latch/ Safe-T-Lock 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 much like the D+D Lokk Latch. These latches do have openings for keys 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 like the D+D Z-Lokk. However, this unit is all metal and more secure. Unlike the latches above that are surface mounted, the Locinox unit mounts within the gate between the gate frame and first picket. This makes it 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. Since the Locinox unit fits between the frame and first picket, it will not fit all gates. That opening on some gates is too narrow, so be sure to ask your Iron Fence Shop rep if it will fit the gate you are looking at. The Locinox unit works best on single gates. They can work on double gates, but could be popped open if your gates are not sufficiently held in place with drop rods.
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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.
