Gate Latch Fitting in Exeter
Professional gate latch fitting services in Exeter and surrounding areas. Local, reliable handyman - no job too small.
Price Guide
£60-£85
Typical Duration
0.5-1 hrs
Location
Exeter, Devon
Gate latches fitted for secure and easy gate closure. Proper alignment, smooth operation, hardware that lasts.
Latches That Actually Work
A gate that doesn't latch properly is a constant irritation - it blows open in the wind, doesn't stay shut when you push it, or needs forcing to catch. The right latch, fitted properly, solves this. One-handed operation, smooth catch, stays shut until you want it open.
💡 Pro tip: The catch plate positioning matters as much as the latch. Even good hardware won't work if it's mounted in the wrong place. Measure twice, drill once.
Done Right vs Done Wrong
| ✅ Done Right | ❌ Done Wrong |
|---|---|
| Catches smoothly, one-handed operation | Needs forcing or fiddling to latch |
| Aligned properly with gate closure | Misaligned, only works when gate's pushed hard |
| Appropriate hardware for gate weight | Flimsy latch on heavy gate |
| Operates easily from both sides | Awkward to open from inside |
What You Get
🔧 The Full Service
| Stage | What Happens |
|---|---|
| Assessment | Check gate alignment and determine best latch type |
| Positioning | Mark latch and catch plate locations accurately |
| Installation | Fit hardware with proper fixings for the material |
| Testing | Multiple open/close cycles to verify smooth operation |
📦 You're Left With
- Gate that latches smoothly every time
- Easy operation from both sides
- Hardware properly aligned and secured
- Weather-resistant fixings
Pricing Guide
| Scope | Estimated Time | You'll Pay |
|---|---|---|
| Simple latch replacement | 30 mins | £60 |
| Standard installation | 1 hr | £60 |
| Complex/lockable hardware | 1.5 hrs | £85 |
£60 minimum (first hour) + £50/hr after. Latch supplied at cost.
Perfect For Your Project If...
✅ Broken latch - Current hardware's worn out or fallen off
✅ Upgrade needed - Want better hardware than basic builder's latch
✅ Security concern - Need lockable latch for side access
✅ New installation - Gate fitted but needs latching mechanism
Why Choose Us for Gate Latch Fitting in Exeter?
Gate stays securely closed
Easy one-handed operation
Weather-resistant hardware
Proper alignment for smooth use
What to Expect
Step 1: Gate Check
I'll check the gate closes properly and assess what type of latch will work best for your situation.
Step 2: Fitting
Mark positions for latch and catch plate, pre-drill to avoid splitting timber, fit hardware with appropriate fixings.
Step 3: Adjustment
Test the operation, adjust if needed, make sure it catches smoothly without forcing.
🔧 DIY Tips
Straightforward job if you're handy with a drill:
🔧 What you'll need
- Gate latch (match to gate type and use)
- Drill and bits
- Screwdriver and fixings
- Pencil for marking positions
📐 How to do it
- Close gate and mark where latch body sits
- Mark catch plate position on post/frame
- Pre-drill all holes to avoid splitting
- Fit latch body first, then catch plate
- Test and adjust catch plate position if needed
⚠️ Common mistakes
- Not testing gate closure before marking positions
- Drilling without pilot holes (splits timber)
- Catch plate too high or low for smooth operation
- Using fixings too short for solid mounting
💡 Pro trick: Mark the catch plate position with the gate closed and latch engaged - it shows you exactly where it needs to go rather than guessing.
Rather leave it to a pro? No problem - that's what I'm here for. Give me a call.
Good to Know
🔧 Alignment first: If the gate's sagging or posts are wonky, fix those before fitting new hardware. A perfect latch on a bent gate still won't work properly.
Combine with:
- Gate hinge replacement (while I'm sorting the gate)
- Gate spring fitting (for self-closing operation)
- Fence post repair (if posts need attention)
Related services:
- Gate hinge replacement
- Gate spring fitting
- Side gate installation
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of latch is best for my gate?
Depends on the gate. Side gates usually get thumb latches or auto-latches. Garden gates often need something kids can't reach. I'll recommend what suits based on who uses it and whether you've got a spring fitted.
Can you fit a latch that works from both sides?
Yes, most latches have a handle or pull cord on the inside. If you need access from both sides without keys, I'll fit a double-sided latch. For security, you might want lockable hardware instead.
Will a new latch fix my gate not closing properly?
Only if the latch is the actual problem. If the gate's sagging or the posts are out of alignment, a new latch won't help - we need to fix those issues first. I'll be honest about what's needed when I see it.
Do you supply the latch or should I buy one?
I carry common types in the van. If you want something specific (lockable, decorative, etc.), send me a photo and I'll grab it before coming out. Either way works - your choice.
Gate Latch Fitting Also Available In:
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01392 964094Request Online QuoteOur Rates
Got multiple jobs?
Make the most of your first hour - I can often tackle several small tasks in one visit. List everything you need done when you call!
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