However, aluminum is much more brittle than most other options on this list, meaning you’ll likely need to invest in a quality gate stop to prevent the daily movement from putting unnecessary stress on the latch arm. Over time, too much stress can lead to breakage.

Butterfly latches are a type of latch that is commonly used to secure gates, doors, and cabinets. They are called “butterfly” latches because of their distinctive shape, which resembles the wings of a butterfly. These latches are designed to be easy to operate and provide a secure closure for the object they are attached to. Stainless steel is similar in appearance to aluminum, but is a much heavier, stronger, and more durable material. It is highly resistant to denting, warping, or bending under pressure or temperature shifts. Although it is one of the more expensive options, it is a great material to choose if you’re looking for something that is durable, modern, and long-wearing. Bronze is considered one of the most expensive gate latch material options. It is a very durable material that tends to age exceptionally. This material is the ideal choice for those who have a more high-end taste, as it feels very dense and looks stunning. Gate hardware kits are available for chain link fences, which include a variety of components such as hinges, latches, and gate handles. These kits are designed to provide all the necessary hardware for installing a gate on a chain link fence. Butterfly latches are a popular choice for securing a gate, as they are easy to use and allow the gate to swing in both directions. Installing a butterfly latch on a gate frame and post is a straightforward process that can be completed with a few basic tools. Installation on Gate FrameKeepers are the part of the butterfly latch that receives the hook. They are designed to keep the latch in place and prevent it from opening unintentionally. Keepers come in different sizes and shapes, depending on the application. Some of the common types of keepers for butterfly latches include: Strike keepers: These keepers are designed to be mounted on a surface perpendicular to the latch. They are commonly used in applications where the latch needs to be mounted on a frame. The first step is to take a look at your home. Does it have a style that leans more rustic, modern, Colonial, traditional, Gothic, Victorian, or another era? Then, examine the existing hardware on your front door. If you like the look of your door handle, you may want to mimic the appearance and get a gate latch that is a similar style. Also, pay attention to the types of metals that your property already has.

Aluminum gate latch designs can be found in the conventional silver color, but they’re also available in a powder-coated option. That way, you can easily coordinate your gate latch with the other hardware on your fence that may be a different color. While everyday use can cause the powder coating to chip, this can be prevented by performing frequent maintenance and touch-ups.

Types of Gate Latches

Butterfly latches are typically made of galvanized steel, which is known for its strength and resistance to corrosion. This makes them ideal for outdoor use, as they can withstand exposure to the elements without rusting or deteriorating. In addition, galvanized steel is easy to clean and maintain, ensuring that the latch will continue to function properly for years to come. Easy Access Design Like most gate latch materials, you’ll want to put forth some effort at maintaining it to extend its longevity. To provide an additional layer of protection, apply a lubricating oil monthly. This will help prevent that annoying squeaking noise and also eliminate the chance of the material being damaged by the elements. Gravity gate latches function, as their name suggests, by using gravity. As the gate closes, the force of the swing allows the latch arm to push past the strike plate and fall into the catch, securing the gate. This is a very desirable option as they can also be self-operated, meaning you can easily open or close it without the need for any outside intervention. These gate latches are always two-sided, due to the fact that the arm needs to fall into the strike to function properly. Butterfly latch kits are easy to install and require only basic tools. They are a cost-effective solution for securing chain link gates, and they are suitable for use with both single and double gates. Gate Hardware Kits

That covers the look, the other consideration you need to make is your environment. More specifically, how durable of a material do you need to withstand the outdoor elements in your area? For example, if you live near the ocean, you’ll want to opt for a metal that resists corrosion. Likewise, if your gate is going to see a lot of daily use, you may want to choose one of the more durable options such as bronze or iron. In addition to butterfly latches, gate hardware kits may also include other types of latches such as slide bolts or gravity latches. The choice of latch will depend on the specific needs of the installation. Ace butterfly latches are a popular type of butterfly latches that are easy to use and install. They come in different sizes and designs, making them suitable for various applications. Ace butterfly latches are known for their durability and strength, and they can withstand heavy loads and constant use. Plate keepers: These keepers are designed to be mounted on a flat surface. They are commonly used in applications where the latch needs to be mounted on a door or lid.Overall, butterfly latches are a versatile and reliable type of latch that is commonly used in a variety of applications. Whether you are securing a gate, door, or cabinet, a butterfly latch can provide a secure and easy-to-use closure that will keep your belongings safe and secure. Types of Butterfly Latches Strap hinges: These hinges are ideal for heavy-duty applications. They are made of durable materials such as stainless steel and are designed to handle heavy loads.

One of the key features of butterfly latches is their easy access design. They typically have a simple mechanism that can be operated with one hand, making it easy to open and close the gate or cabinet. In addition, many butterfly latches have a spring-loaded handle that provides a tight hold and compensates for slight misalignment. This ensures that the gate or cabinet stays securely closed, even if it is bumped or jostled. Various Finishes Available Piano hinges: These hinges are long and narrow, making them ideal for long doors or lids. They are also known as continuous hinges and provide a smooth and consistent motion. Butterfly latches are often used in situations where a secure closure is needed, but where the object being secured needs to be easily accessible. For example, butterfly latches are commonly used on gates, where they allow the gate to swing in both directions while still providing a secure closure. They are also used on cabinets and doors, where they provide a secure closure that can be easily opened when needed. Recessed keepers: These keepers are designed to be mounted in a recessed area. They are commonly used in applications where the latch needs to be flush with the surface.

Gate Latch Operation

Measure the space between the gate post and gate frame. The latch must have a 2-5/16″ space to function correctly. Hinges are an integral part of butterfly latches. They provide the necessary support for the latch to function correctly. The hinges for butterfly latches come in different sizes and shapes, depending on the application. Some of the common types of hinges for butterfly latches include: In summary, butterfly latches are a reliable and easy-to-use option for securing gates, cabinets, and other enclosures. Their galvanized steel construction ensures durability and resistance to corrosion, while their easy access design and various finishes make them a versatile choice for a range of applications. Butterfly Latches for Chain Link Fences Butterfly latches come in a variety of sizes and styles to fit different applications. They are typically made from materials such as steel, brass, or aluminum, which makes them durable and resistant to wear and tear. Some butterfly latches are designed to be recessed, which means that the latch is mounted flush with the surface of the object it is attached to. This type of latch is often used on cabinets or doors where a protruding latch could be a hazard.