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Gate Hardware Explained: Hinges, Latches and Other Parts
A plain parts-level tour of what hangs, closes, latches and locks a gate, and how the small pieces decide whether a gate swings true for years or sags.
Gates and Entrances
Gate Hardware and Parts
Hinges, latches and small parts that decide how a gate performs.
Child-Resistant Latches for Gates Near Pools and Play Areas
Learn how child-resistant gate latches work, from high release points to two-step operation and self-latching, and why they are one layer rather than a guarantee.
Choosing Corrosion-Resistant Hardware for Wet Climates
Compare galvanized, stainless steel and coated gate hardware for rainy, humid or salty-air locations, and learn what to watch for with fasteners and mixed metals.
Diagonal Bracing and Anti-Sag Kits for Wooden Gates
Learn how a diagonal brace or cable and turnbuckle anti-sag kit keeps a heavy wooden gate square, which direction each one runs, and how to set it up.
Drop Rods and Cane Bolts for Double Gates
Understand how a drop rod or cane bolt holds the inactive leaf of a double gate in place, how the ground receiver works, and how to keep it from jamming.
Gate Latches Compared: Thumb, Gravity and Magnetic
See how thumb, gravity and magnetic gate latches work, where each one fits best, and what to check about alignment, weather and ease of use before choosing.
Gate Wheels and Support Rollers for Wide Gates
Find out when a wide swing gate needs a wheel or support roller, what kind of ground it needs to roll on, and why wheels do not replace strong posts and hinges.
Padlocks, Hasps and Gate Lock Boxes
A look at hasps, padlocks and lock boxes for gates, what makes each stronger or weaker, and how to mount them so the weak point is not the screws.
Self-Closing Gate Hinges and Springs
How spring-loaded and hydraulic self-closing gate hinges work, how to tune closing speed and latching, and what to check for pool, pet and play-area gates.
Types of Gate Hinges and What Each Is Best For
Compare strap, T, butt, adjustable and heavy-duty gate hinges, and learn which style suits a light garden gate, a heavy wooden gate or a wide steel gate.
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