What Is the Metal Fastener on a Gate Called That Effectively Keeps the Gate From Being Opened?

Latches

• A latch constitutes any device that holds a door closed by catching a bar or bolt in a closed position. Latches use numerous means of catching a bar or a bolt, including prongs and systems with two pieces: one that raises or closes to release or trap the bar or bolt, and one that stays stationary. Two basic types of latches exist, those in which the latch movies and those in which the latch stays stationary. If a latch moves, it moves up and down, usually triggered by a handle, button or wring. If the latch stays stationary, the device holding the latch opens and closes.

Bolts

• Technically speaking, a latch system may employ a bolt. However, when describing a system used to close a gate and stop it from opening, the term bolt refers to a system with a moving bolt. Bolts move on horizontal or vertical planes – if you draw a bolt to the side or pull it up to open a gate, this type of system goes by the name “bolt.” If the bolt remains stationary or moves from a horizontal position to a vertical position, this type of system goes by the name latch.

Locks

• Some gates contain locks. The term “lock” only describes systems in which a lock comprises an inbuilt unit. For instance, if a latch contains a mechanism for locking a bolt or bar in place, it constitutes a lock. If you must put a lock on a latch in order to lock it, this system constitutes a latch. Gates usually only have locks if they exist for security reasons or to prevent escape, such as when animal handlers or farmers use locked gates to prevent large animals like cows or horses from busting a gate open.

Hinges

• Some gates use hinges to stay closed, rather than latches, bolts or locks. These hinges contain springs or some other snap-back system that causes a gate to snap back into a closed position after opening. Hinges accomplish this by creating tension. As you open a gate, the tension exerts pressure on the gate. When you release you hold on the gate, the pressure exerted by the tension causes the gate to snap back into place.