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How to install a gate latch

Person using permanent marker to mark screw points in gate latch.

Overview

We'll teach you the proper way to install a latch on your garden gate. You'll learn where to position it on the frame and how to cut an access hole so you can reach the latch from the other side of the gate.

Steps

1Position the bar for the gate latch

Position your latch bar on the gate frame so it reaches where the latch will be on the gatepost. Check this by closing the gate and holding the bar and the latch in place, making sure that the bar sits properly in the latch. Once you are happy with the position of the bar, hold it in position with masking tape and mark the screw points with a marker.
Person using permanent marker to mark screw points in gate latch.

2Install the bar for the gate latch

Remove the bar and pre-drill pilot holes for the screw points you marked out. Then put the bar back in place and drive in your screws. In this case our gate has a metal frame, so we are using self-tapping metal screws. 
Person drilling gate latch into fence.

3Install the gate latch on the gate post

With the gate closed, hold the latch in place on the gatepost. Once you are sure it is sitting where it will grab the bar properly, mark out your screw holes. Then take the latch away, pre-drill pilot holes and screw the latch into position. 
Person drilling gate latch into fence.

4Cut an access hole for the gate latch

Use a roll of masking tape as a template to draw a curve on the back of the gate near the latch. Then use your ruler to draw straight lines from the curve to the frame. Ideally, the shape you draw should take out part of two pickets and give you enough room to reach your hand through easily. Finish by cutting the shape out with your jigsaw and smoothing down the edges with sandpaper.
Person holding roll of tape against fence and drawing an outline with a pencil.
Health & Safety

Please make sure you use all equipment appropriately and safely when following the advice in these D.I.Y. videos. You need to be familiar with how to use equipment safely and follow the instructions that came with the equipment. If you are unsure, you may feel it is safest to consult an expert, such as the manufacturer or an expert Bunnings Team Member.

Grave health hazards are linked to asbestos, which may be in homes built up to 1990. Health hazards may result from exposure to lead-based paints in older materials and copper chromium arsenic (CCA) treated timber. For information on the dangers of asbestos, lead-based paint and CCA treated timber and tips for dealing with these materials contact your local council's Environmental Health Officer. You can also use a simple test kit from Bunnings to indicate the presence of lead-based paint.