What kind of latch do you put on a 6ft wooden gate. That can be opened from both sides?

Question

We are installing a 6 ft privacy fence and we want to put a latch/handle on the gate that is easy to use from both sides. We tried to drive around and look at other peoples gates and that was not really all that helpful since we couldn't see the inside. But a few looked like door handles from the outside ( the kind with the big handle where you push the button with your thumb to open it) has anyone ever heard of doing it that way? Just using a heavy duty door handle.

Answer 1

go to a farm supply, you are looking for a barn door hinge. that is what they are called, they should have the handle for it too...

Answer 2

There are lots of different kinds of latches for gates. You just need to go to the home center and they usually have several different kinds out for you to look at.   Some of them do have handles with a button and can be operated easily from both sides.   Just like with other kinds of locks, you have to drill through the gate to install them, but there are lots of latches that do just what you are looking for.

You don't want to buy or use something that isn't specifically made for the outdoors, as it will not handle the weather well.  

Also, don't go cheap.  Get something that looks big and sturdy.  This is something you want to buy once and then never have to think about again.   The incremental cost of buying a cheap latch vs. a good, solid latch is trivial when compared with the hassle of replacing the latch in a year or so when it doesn't hold up.  

My recommendation is that you get something that will automatically latch whenever the gate is closed (just like a door does) and pair that with a self-closing spring that you attach on the hinge side.  That way the gate always closes and latches correctly without any thought or effort on your part.   This is crucial if you want to contain children or pets,  but is a good idea even if you don't.  Set the spring (they are adjustable) just strong enough to close the gate with authority.  It should not slam but should engage the latch mechanism firmly (again, this is one reason why you want a strong latch in the first place).  

Finally, think carefully about which way you want the gate to swing and which direction.  If it is the way to the kitchen and you will be going through it with grocery bags every week, then it should swing in towards the house to get out of your way when you are encumbered.  If you walk your dogs out that gate, then it should swing out to give you easier egress from the yard.

Answer 3

latch, or lock ?

latch:  you could have a like "bull ring" that lifts a latch

or lock, like you would have on your front door. both are acceptable.