Categories of Gate Latches | Securing Your Gate | Gate Latch Material |
Types of Gate Latches | Chart of Gate Latch Options | The Do’s and Don’ts of Gate Latches

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 (we don’t carry these)
• Aluminum Gate Latches
• Bronze Gate Latches
• Stainless Steel Gate Latches

Aluminum Gate Latches

Aluminum is wonderful because of its corrosion resistance. Aluminum is a lightweight material. It is more brittle than iron, so when choosing an aluminum gate latch it’s vital to use a gate stop, which will prevent your gate from “overclosing” and putting undue stress on the arm of the latch. Aluminum gate latches are usually cast into many shapes and styles and are powder coated to 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 hit each other over and over again. 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.

 

See 360 Yardware’s collection of Aluminum Gate Latches.

 

 

 

 

 

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.

 

 

 

 

 

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. See 360 Yardware’s collection of Stainless Steel Gate Latches.

 

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. 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 rub with oil (just a simple barrier against the elements) will do just fine.