If your gate latch is noisy, you may want to learn how to make it quieter. There are several ways to quiet your gate latch, including installing a closer, adjusting the strike plate in the door jamb, and installing a metal gate stop. If these methods are not enough to solve your gate latch noise problem, try these tips. You may also want to consider purchasing a cheap screen door spring, which slows down the latch when the gate is closed. If none of these methods work, consider making a friendly note and removing it.
Lever latches
A typical lever latch has a noise level of 50-60 decibels. To quiet the latch, a magnetic device can be installed on the back panel of the housing. The magnetic device projects the latch bolt back to the lock mechanism, reducing the sound generated by the bolt. A powerful rare-earth magnet acts as the projector, directing the bolt head back to its outward position after actuation.
There are two main types of lever latches. The ring-and-lever style has a ring attached to the end of the latch arm, which lifts when the ring is lifted. These latches are rarely lockable, so the main difference between these two is the mechanism. Bolt latches are more common, and are easy to lock with a padlock. But which type of latch should you buy for your property?
Lever-style gate latches are best for large, heavy gates. These gates typically wear out normal hardware, so consider installing a lever-type latch that allows the gate to swing inward or outward. It is not a good idea to use normal hardware on a heavy gate because it could break the latch’s spring, which will be a source of frustration. While these latches are easy to install and maintain, they can be noisy and can cause a lot of problems over time.
Metal gate stops
If you’re thinking about installing a quiet gate latch on your new gate, you should install metal gatestops before you install it. These stops will hit the post of the gate before the latch arm swings out and latches it. They come in several finishes: black powdercoat, brushed stainless, and bronze. For a more traditional look, you can install a gatestop by following a video guide.
Gate stops are available for metal, wood, and vinyl gates. Some feature an integrated rubber buffer to dampen the slam. You must leave a 5/16″ or 7/17″ gap between the gate and the post to install a stop. For gates over four feet, you should use two gate stops. They’re also inexpensive. You can get gate stop latch packages from companies such as 360 Yardware. Make sure to read the user’s manual before purchasing.
Adjusting strike plate on door jamb
If you’d like to install a quieter gate latch, there are a few ways you can do so. One simple method is to cut a strip of wood and glue it to the door jamb. If you can’t find a piece of wood of the right size, you can try using a thin, wooden #2 pencil to push against the jamb. Alternatively, you can place a small piece of wood in the hinge hole.
When you’re dealing with a door that’s rubbing when closed, one way to identify the problem is to remove the strike plate and check the direction of the bolts that secure the latch. If they are in the wrong direction, you may need to chisel the door frame to fit it in the new location. If the door still rubs, you should try tightening the screws that hold it in place.
Another solution for a noisy door latch is to adjust the strike plate on the door jamb. When the strike plate is not aligned with the door jamb, the latch will misalign and create noises when the door closes and opens. To fix this, unscrew the metal plate and then adjust it to the proper position. If you’re still experiencing noise, it may be time to clean and lubricate the door latch.
