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Gate Latch Materials
from 360 Yardware

     Other topics to check out in our Gate Latch Information series....

Gate Latch Overview | Categories of Gate Latches | Securing Your Gate |
Types and Styles of Gate Latches | Chart of Gate Latch Options | The Do's and Don'ts of Gate Latches

We frequently update this page. If you have a question, please contact us -- we'll happily add more information here, if needed.

What Are Gate Latches Made From And Why?

      The material that latches are made from influences where (geographically) you can install it, but it also can influence the aesthetics with the color and finish. All outdoor gate latches are exposed to use and the elements. Wear and tear is normal over time, but depending on the material you choose for your gate latch, you can minimize your risk of wear.

     All outdoor gate latches require periodic maintenance to get the longest life out of the hardware. The highest priced gate latches (priced that way because of the materials used) are generally those that require the least amount of maintenance.

     Overall, there are so many wonderful choices when choosing a garden gate latch. You'll most likely be able to find what you need!

• Iron Gate Latches
• Aluminum Gate Latches
• Bronze Gate Latches
• Stainless Steel Gate Latches
• Brass Gate Latches

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Iron Gate Latches

    Iron is probably the most widely used material for latches. It can either be cast iron or wrought iron. Its heavy, stately appearance appeals to many homeowners. Usually they are powder-coated black to provide a layer of protection against the outdoor elements.

     On the upside, it'll last a long time and provides good value for the money spent. On the downside, even with a powdercoat finish, iron will eventually start to rust, especially in areas of the latch where two parts are coming into contact with each other. Many people like the rustic, old world look of an iron gate latch, even if it has some rust spots on it. In a highly corrosive environment, like beachfront or seaside locations, iron is not the best choice.

      Maintaining a cast iron gate latch requires maintenance to extend its life. When you do find some rust spots, use steel wool to clear the area, then touch up with a spray paint like Rustoleum.

      You're most likely to find Old World, antique, Colonial, and traditional styles in a cast iron gate latch.

  

See 360 Yardware's collection of Iron Gate Latches.

Aluminum Gate Latches

     Aluminum is wonderful because of its corrosion resistance and affordability. Aluminum is a lightweight material.  Aluminum gate latches are usually cast into many shapes and styles and are powder coated black, since most coordinating gate hardware is also black.

    Aluminum latches are often less expensive than cast iron latches. Note that while aluminum is corrosion resistant, the powder coat finish can still chip off over time as two parts of the latch abrade each other over time. There isn't much maintenance to do on an aluminum gate latch, but you can touch up any chipped areas with a spray paint like Rustoleum if you desire. You're most likely to find old world, antique, and traditional styles in a cast aluminum gate latch. We at 360 Yardware have just introduced a new line of contemporary and modern latches in a combination of aluminum and stainless steel.

See 360 Yardware's collection of Aluminum Gate Latches.

Modeled after a cast-iron ring antique ring latch, this cast-aluminum offers better rust resistance.

A cast-aluminum floral ring latch, also modeled after antique cast iron designs.

Bronze Gate Latches

     Bronze is on the higher end of price spectrum for gate latches, but it is well worth the expense. Bronze is cast in the same vein as iron and aluminum, achieving lovely shapes. Bronze is heavy and substantial and feels great in your hand.

    You might find the most artistry in bronze latch designs, but you'll also find the highest price tags. Bronze gate latches come in many styles, including traditional, contemporary, and old world.

     Bronze ages beautifully and because it doesn't have a powder coat finish, there is no risk of chipping. If you live in a rust prone area, bronze is an excellent choice. Left to its own devices, bronze will darken to a lovely dark copper penny color, then eventually patina green. In terms of maintenance, applying a coat of wax annually will protect your latch, prevent patina, and ensure a long life.

See 360 Yardware's collection of Bronze Gate Latches.

An overhead view of a cast bronze gate latch with lever handles. This latch is no longer in production.

Stainless Steel Gate Latches

Stainless steel is often used to craft modern and contemporary gate latches. Stainless steel is substantial and feels and look sleek. If you're looking for modern gate hardware or contemporary gate latches, we suggest you look for a stainless steel gate latch.

     Stainless steel is great for rust-resistance--really, unless you've got the latch installed right at the street and the street is salted and cars drive by and splatter salt all over the latch, you're going to have years and years of enjoyment out of a stainless steel latch without a speck of rust. Stainless steel can be powder coated, but mostly you'll see it in its raw form.

     Of course, maintenance will help add to the longevity.  A periodic wash with fresh water to remove salt and pollutants from the surface of the latch. And then a light rub with oil (just a simple barrier against the elements) will do just fine.

   The Alta Latch, a modern-contemporary all stainless steel latch. Spring-loaded handles and arm. Excellent for coastal and oceanfront locations.

Brass Gate Latches

     There aren't many brass gate latches on the market, but those that are for sale are usually styled to the traditional or colonial era. Brass is nice and heavy and feels hefty in your hand.

     Brass--shiny at the beginning--will tarnish over time. Many folks like the aged look. But if you want the shininess to stick around, you'll need to diligently maintain the surface with a brass cleaner. You can also choose to apply a UV resistant urethane clear-coat.

Download our new Architectural Gate Hardware catalog, which includes
all of our gate latches (modern, contemporary, rustic, traditional and antique)
plus outdoor gate hinges, gate stops, cane bolts, and gate locks.
The catalog includes gate latches for double gates and single gate hardware packages
where we take the thought out of putting together a hardware ensemble.

At 360 Yardware, we offer "360 Degrees of Outdoor Decor." We wanted to describe more than
just "Outdoor Decor." We chose the term yardware to describe anything a person would need to enhance
the outside of their home. From the front curb to the front walkway; the entryway to the side yard;
and ultimately to the backyard and back patio, we offer items both small and large to change the
look of your home.

We invite you to browse through our store and find something that speaks to you, that will spice
up your home and make you excited to get outdoors!

360 Yardware is an authorized distributor of Emtek door hardware, including modern door hardware, contemporary door hardware, door accessories, deadbolts. To see our complete offerings,
see our Emtek Catalog page.

Gate Hardware ~ Mailboxes ~ Garage Door & Carriage House Door Hardware
Doorbell Buttons ~ Shutter Hardware ~ House Numbers

Gate Hardware
We have everything you need to replace your old Fence and Gate Hardware.
If you have a Wooden Gate or need a Replacement Latch, we offer Gate Latches, Deadbolt Latches, Gate Hinges, Hinge Fronts, and other Decorative Gate Hardware. We've also combined many of our products into gate hardware sets and value packages.

We've created a section of information about Double Gate Hardware and Gate Latches for Double Gates with everything you'll need to understand the factors that go into a quality double gate installation.

Gate Latches
Our Wooden Gate Latches selection offers something for everyone. If Antique Gate Closures are your style, we carry Cast Iron Hardware and Iron Gate Latches that look like historic and more traditional gate latches. Even better, there are now Aluminum Gate Latches--in the same styles as the antique gate latches--which are rust-resistant and perfect for coastal areas. We also offer a line of cast Bronze Gate Latches: durable, substantial, and that will age gracefully with no rusting over time. A few of the latches we offer are versatile in their styling, so they can be used at homes with traditional, antique, contemporary, or Spanish aesthetics.

We are thrilled to introduce the Moda Contemporary Gate Latch in 316 Stainless Steel. The Moda Latch is a modern lever latch in brushed stainless steel with FSC-certified sustainable tigerwood handle. The 316 Stainless Steel offers the utmost in corrosion protection. We offer a single gate package and a double gate package. For larger photographs, please check our information page: Moda.

Our goal is to help you fill your decorative gate hardware needs. To this end, we've put together gate latch sets for double wooden gates, plus single gate hardware sets including hinges, latches, and optional accessories.

We have created a Gate Latch Information Series to help you understand all there is to know about wooden gate latches and to help you choose the right product for your situation. Topics include:

• Categories of Gate Latches : gravity gate latches, spring-loaded gate latches, and bolt latches

• Securing Your Gate : deadbolts, slide bolts, lockable gate latches, etc.

• Gate Latch Material : a discussion of the typical materials used to create wood gate latches

• Types of Gate Latches  : thumb latches, lever latches, ring latches, bolt latches

• Chart of Gate Latch Options : a chart with all the information you need to know about each latch so that you can find the one that'll work the best for you

• The Do's and Don'ts of Gate Latches : a compilation of tips about gate latches