Many properties domestic or commercial have standard wooden gates, often with simple latches or similar. It is generally up to the owners to enhance the security which is when they need lock upgrades on external wooden gates.
Owl Locksmiths and Security can attend and do this for you and depending on the design of the gate, offer a number of options.
You will need to know why you need additional locks and the degree of security required. Not all gates benefit as if the gate is of very basic design, it may be possible for an intruder to either kick the gate to pieces or simply climb over. However, this post simply shows what is possible and what work might be required to allow the fitting of some locks.
Lock Upgrades
At the most basic level, often the simplest would be a basic Rim Lock. Screwed to the inner side of the gate and drill through for the keyway. A basic hole in the frame would do for the bolt with a flat plate keep. (photos 1 & 2)
Nightlatch, (Yale lock)
Next would be the nightlatch, commonly known as a (Yale lock). If the gate is not thick enough, then the gate can be packed out relatively easy and then repainted or stained. (photos 3, 4 &5)
If a heavier duty locking device is needed, we generally fit something such as the gate master style, version pictured is simple pull bar on the inner side and security key on the outer. Here we have had to pack the gate out to allow fitting but this is normal for many gates no matter the lock fitted. (photos 6, 7 & 8).
Mechanical Digital Latch lock
For gates where they are used by multiple persons or keys are not preferred, we can fit a Mechanical Digital Latch lock which uses a code instead. (Photos 9-15). Again for the first option the gate has been packed out and this shows 2 of the light use versions. (Photos 9-15). Photos 16-18 shows the Heavy Duty higher security version on a wooden gate and brick wall.
Mortice Lock – standard key or euro cylinder
A higher security option would be a mortice lock in the gate of either a standard key or a euro cylinder. This offer strength and flexibility in options as can be seen in these photos. The option pictured is a mortice deadlock “Euro” case with euro cylinder (Photos 19, 20, & 21)
Nightlatch with Electronic Keypad
Lastly, (Photos 22-25) show the fitting of a nightlatch but operated using an electronic keypad. The keypad operates the electric release on the frame or the key can still operate the latch in the normal way. However, these can work well “providing” the gate and frame are of sturdy construction with limited flex or movement. The power is supplied from a supply unit inside the building. This type is rarely used and is shown as a possible option if needed.
NOTE: The photos show the work in finished but unpainted condition. Owl Locksmiths and Security do not repaint any doors or gates and as such that part would be the responsibility of the owner.
To book a survey or simply for further information or advice, you can:
- Call: Owl Locksmiths and Security on: 01736 309 303
- Message: 07503 985 947
- Email to: owllocksmithsandsecurity@hotmail.co.uk
