Using Locks on Outside Gates

Although you will rarely need to install a knob on an outside wooden or iron gate, I will here offer some things that you should think about if you are going to use a knob on an outside gate.

First,  do not worry about whether or not the lock is weatherproof. Of course, the cheap Kwikset and Schlage residential grade locks are not going to hold up very well in a total, outdoor situation.  If you want to install a lock that has durability, you should consider the commercial grade 1 or grade 2 locks.

Second, you should consider using a storeroom function lock that always locks back into place.  However, if people can simply reach through the gate or over it, then you will need to install an asylum function that is always locked but operated on either side with a key.

Third, a lever may not be in your best interest, as kids often stand on them in order to jump over the gate.  If you must use a lever, be sure to get one that has a clutch mechanism that will cause the lever to resist vandalism.  Yes, kids will also stand on knobs in order to climb over the gate.

Fourth, if there is any chance that kids will be climbing over the gate by standing on your lock, do know that the lock will loosen over time.  You may need to install a gate wheel on the bottom of the gate.  These can be purchased at your local farmer's supply, as they are used on cattle gates. This gate wheel will also keep the intruders weight from damaging the latch which inserts into the post.

Schlage B250

Fifth, a good alternative to a knob or lever is a double sided deadbolt that uses a LATCH instead of a BOLT.  Schlage makes such a dead bolt and it is known as the B-250.  Normally, this lock comes with a 2 3/4 inch backset latch.  Contact Schlage for specifics.  You may need a 2 3/8 backset latch.



Sixth, if you are installing a lock on a wooden gate, the gate is often too thick.  Use a large hole saw (one that will allow the lock to pass through completely), and cut into the wood a small way.  Once you have drilled this hole, use the small 1/8 bit and make a through-hole. Then, use the hole saw and drill a little into the other side.  What you are doing is trying to make the gate 1 3/4 inches thick by removing some of the wood face.  Just measure the thickness of the door.  If it is a total of 3 inches thick, subtract 1 3/4 from 3, divide that number by 2, and that is how deep the large hole saw should cut into each side of the gate.  Once you have done that, take the 2 1/8 hole saw and drill through the door on both sides. Then, take a wood chisel and hammer and remove the outer cut sections.

Seventh, if you have a metal gate, you can have your local welder install a box that is uniquely designed for the purposes we are now discussing.