How to Choose Gate Locks that Fit your Security Needs

As a business or homeowner, you want to make sure that your gate is secured at all times. Therefore, when choosing a gate, ask yourself these questions: What is the purpose of your gate? Where is your gate being located? Does it require automation? What level of security do you want your gate to have? Do you need (want) a lockable gate latch?

Some gates last longer than others, and they can be a large investment to your property. Hence, consider these other specs in order to achieve the desired results you want: Swing Direction, Material, Maintenance, Security, Gate Thickness, Style & Latch type.

Gate Properties

• Swing Direction: Determines which way the gate will open (ex. Outwards, inwards, slide or bottom to top). The latches used to open a gate outward differ from the latches used to open a gate inwards. Some latches may work for both.

• Material: If your gate is going to be opening constantly, you may want to choose a material that is durable.

• Maintenance: In-order to make your gate latch last, you need at least a small amount of maintenance. Outdoor gates and latches require more maintenance.

• Security: First ask yourself what kind of security you want your gate to provide. Will your gate require a gate stop? A gate stop protects your gate from over closing & latches from bending/breaking.

• Gate Thickness: Wooden gates come in all shapes and thickness. If you’re customizing a gate, be sure to know how thick it is before ordering a gate latch. Up until now, there is no dead bolt option for thick gates. A single cylinder dead bolt can fit 3”-5.5” inches.

Gate Styles

Modern, Contemporary, Rustic, Antique, Old World, Traditional, Asian. The following are some of the many styles to choose from. Typical garden gate widths are 3-4 feet. Drive way gates are between 5-6 feet high. Depending on the style of your home/garden, you might consider coordinating your gate hardware.

• Wooden Gates: Hardwood-Teak, Iroko and Oak. Softwood-Scandinavian Redwood or Cedar. Wooden gates may be too heavy and difficult to open regularly. Wooden gates normally provide more privacy. These types of gates can be stained or preserved to help waterproof the wood and prevent rot. Some color stains can make the wood look more realistic.

• Steel Gates: Are naturally strong. Offering the ability to create more complex designs. Galvanizing protects steel from corrosion. You can powder coat it after galvanizing the gate so it will be more protected.

• Latch types: Metal gate latch, ring latches, thumb latches, lever latches, gravity gate latches, spring loaded latch, driveway latches, double gate latches, sliding/rolling gates.

Call us today to get a gate lock installed by one of our professional locksmith technicians. (424) 251-9622