This gate latch hardware is one of the easiest-to-install out there. But it may not be as easy as most people think.
For those who are having a hard time with the gate latch installation, this article may be a fantastic way to install gate latch more efficiently and without any issue.
Many people struggle with this process when it comes to installing a garden gate – that’s why this perfect guide on how to install gate latch may help to do it faster & more effectively.
Even, some people like to know different types of gate latches and types of automatic gate opener, but not interested to know about a gate latch installation. So here, we will try to describe the process in easy way. Hope you love it.
Tools & Materials Needed to Install Gate Latch
Here you have the list of tools and materials listed as well as their priority defined in brackets. Have a quick look and make sure to keep them under your belt.
Tools:
- Drill (Critical)
- Jigsaw (Critical)
- Ruler (Essential)
- Safety Glasses (For Safety)
- Gloves (For Safety)
- Dust Mask (For Safety)
- Ear Muffs (Optional)
Materials:
- Gate Latch (Critical)
- Latch Bar (Critical)
- Self-Tapping Screws (Critical)
- Sand Paper (Essential)
- Marker (Essential)
- Pencil (Optional)
Step-By-Step Installation Process
Cool. Soon as you have got all the necessary tools and materials, it is time to get on the real work. We will go step by step, okay?
1. Measure the Latch and the Bar
The latch is composed of two parts, the one that goes on the gatepost that adds as an anchor point, and the bar that goes inside the latch to secure the system.
To install this system correctly, it is critical to measure with the bar & latch where it is going to be placed.
Do this by positioning the bar on the gate frame and measuring where the latch will be. It should enter the latch precisely, so it doesn’t hit with the borders or comes uncomfortably inside.
Mark with the marker or pencil the points to screw. Make sure they match entirely with both the latch and the bar screw holes.
2. Drill the Screw Holes
After having everything marked and measured, it is time to start opening the holes with the drill.
Try to balance the drill even if it moves too much to avoid opening awkward holes that won’t fit the screws firmly inside.
If it is a metallic gate and gatepost, try to be even more careful when drilling. Avoid touching the drilling points with bare hands to escape burns.
3. Install the Bar
Now that all the holes are ready, it is time to start installing it. Start with the bar, making sure the holes fit entirely with the holes on the gate. Put the bar in position and start putting the screws in.
The self-tapping screws are better for metal gates than wooden ones. However, they work pretty well with both. Nails are also a good option for wooden gates, but not as reliable or easy to install.
4. Install the Latch
If the bar is installed, then it means now it is time to fix the latch. Here, fit the latch exactly where the bar reaches. Make sure to have all the necessary screw holes opened and ready to adjust the screws in.
Before screwing, the latch should fit entirely with the bar. Otherwise, fix until it does. After it does, start screwing in.
Make sure it fits sturdily and does not move by closing the gate and shaking it hard for a few seconds.
5. Mark an Access Hole or Finger Entrance
Some people like large access holes to fit their whole hands in, while there are others who prefer smaller holes for the fingers only. Whatever the preference, it is critical to mark it out first to have an idea about where it will go.
Use the ruler to measure and open the access hole. A circular shape for the hole can also be useful. After having the preferred form, mark it with a pencil or marker.
6. Open the Access with the Jigsaw
When the gate is installed, using the saw to open the access hole can be a nightmare. So here it is better to use the jigsaw to avoid problems.
Cut the complete access completely, and then make sure that hands or finger cross to the bar and latch entirely.
The access should be comfortable enough to avoid getting stuck, as it should never make the person make an awkward move to prevent injuries.
7. Finish
After having the access and everything else installed and figured out, it is time to start finishing the gate latch installation.
Smooth down the edges with the sandpaper, get all the fuzzy dust off the gate, and start using the gate as desired.
Conclusion
The process of how to fix a gate latch into any gate is a total piece of cake. It is all about knowing the right method to avoid making mistakes.
Believe it or not, to install gate latch like a pro, this guide is all you need to know.
