How to Attach a Latch to a Gate

A latch can be both functional and attractive.

If you need a way to keep that pesky garden gate closed tight, consider installing a latch. A latch is a small mechanism designed to hold gates and other doorways closed. Some latches merely hold the gate shut while others may go as far as to lock it. You can find them at most any hardware store and they come in many shapes and sizes. You may even be able to find some decorative latches that work as intended while adding a touch of class to your gate.

Things You'll Need

• Latch anchor
• Latch arm

Instructions

1. Position the latch against the gate. Consider where you would like to see the latch. Put it somewhere near the top of the gate so that the gate can open from the other side that does not have the latch. If you do not want to gate accessible from the other side, place the latch lower down so that someone cannot reach it from the other side of the gate.

2. Install the anchor of the latch onto the post right next to the side of the gate that opens. The anchor is the part that fastens the latch shut. For example, the anchor may be a socket that captures and secures a bar into place, halting the movement of the gate. The anchor will change shapes and styles depending on the type of latch you purchase, though.

3. Install the latch arm level with the anchor, but on the side of the door. Hold the arm onto the door first, though, and ensure it can reach the anchor to work properly.