Securing your backyard perimeter requires more than just a sturdy fence. In fact, it demands hardware that actively helps prevent your most vulnerable family members from wandering away.
Frequently, standard gate latches and hinges fail due to mechanical wear or human error, leaving an open invitation for curious toddlers and pets to escape. Consequently, homeowners are abandoning standard hardware for advanced D&D Technologies' latches and hinges, and it all comes down to one thing: true peace of mind.
What are the best fence latches for backyard safety?
Designing a backyard fence for true peace of mind means transforming a simple physical barrier into an active safety system for your children and four-legged family members. Specifically, while the fence panels themselves block the outer perimeter, your real daily security depends entirely on the gates.
By fortifying your entry points with the self-closing reliability of TruClose® Hinges, the patented magnetic security of a MagnaLatch®, or the dual-sided key lockability of the LokkLatch®, you can eliminate the weakest link in your yard and create a foolproof sanctuary.
First and foremost, true perimeter security does not actually start with a lock. It starts with the TruClose® Hinge.
TruClose® Self-Closing Hinges step in to act as your gate's memory, instantly transforming a passive entry point into an active, automatic safety barrier. Additionally, because these heavy-duty hinges are engineered from UV-stabilized, industrial-strength polymers rather than traditional metal, they will never rust, bind, or sag under seasonal weather stress.
Most importantly, these hinges help provide lasting security and function because they are engineered to meet strict international swimming pool safety codes. As a continuous supporter of the National Drowning Prevention Alliance (NDPA), D&D Technologies builds every TruClose® Hinge to the highest safety standards to protect your children and your pets.
Why TruClose® Hinges deliver true peace of mind:
• Patented Tension Adjustment — Easily adjust the closing speed with a standard screwdriver to match your gate's weight.
• Anti-Climb Hinge Safety Cap – Features an optional, rounded safety cap that helps eliminate the "toe hold" or foot hold that toddlers and children may use to climb over gates.
• Rust-Free Construction — Molded from UV-stabilized, industrial-strength polymer and stainless-steel components for lifelong durability.
• Internal Spring Mechanism — Delivers reliable, smooth self-closing performance without the hazard of exposed external springs.
• Advanced Alignment Options — Features effortless horizontal and vertical adjustments to quickly fix shifting fences and gates.
• Heavy-Duty Weight Capacities —While standard models easily handle everyday yard gates up to 66 lbs, the Heavy Duty range is rated for high-traffic gates weighing up to 155 lbs, perfect for containing large, powerful dog breeds.
When it comes to flawless execution, professional installers, like the experienced team at Chesterfield Fence and Deck, consistently choose TruClose® Hinges to ensure every St. Louis fence owner can enjoy their outdoor living space free from hassle or worry. From the very start, these hinges are engineered for a seamless, quick installation that saves homeowners time and hassle. More importantly, they deliver the long-lasting strength needed to withstand Missouri's dramatic seasonal weather shifts. Ultimately, by pairing expert local craftsmanship with D&D's advanced engineering, TruClose® Hinges help keep your gated fence secure for a lifetime.
In addition to a reliable self-closing hinge, a secure perimeter requires an equally advanced locking mechanism to help guarantee total backyard safety. The MagnaLatch® Series 3 eliminates physical resistance by utilizing patented magnetic triggering technology. Consequently, because it requires zero mechanical force to latch, the gate locks securely and automatically every time it drifts closed.
Furthermore, the MagnaLatch® is globally recognized as the world's number one child safety gate latch, trusted by water safety experts and top-tier local contractors alike. For added security, the elevated release knob is well out of reach of curious toddlers and clever, jumping pets. Ultimately, this child safety gate lock acts as an essential home safety barrier for your family.
Why MagnaLatch® delivers true peace of mind:
• Improved Drainage — The sloping features channel water out of the latch and striker, eliminating the possibility for trapped water.
• Patented Magnetic Latching — Uses powerful internal magnets to help ensure the latch never jams, catches, or sticks open.
• Child-Resistant Top Pull — Extends the release knob well out of reach for curious toddlers and clever, jumping pets.
• High Collar Under Lift Knob — The high collar prevents water entry.
• Space Under Lift Knob — This space helps prevent the lift knob from freezing.
• Visible Lock Indicator Provides a quick, dual-color visual confirmation so you can instantly see if the gate is locked.
• 6-Pin Re-Keyable Lock — Features a heavy-duty, integrated key lock that can be matched to your home's entry doors.
• Protective Shroud Over Key T—he shroud helps prevent water entry into the lock cylinder.
By installing a MagnaLatch® rather than another standard latch, fence owners receive a gate system that doesn't just look exceptional, but one that actively protects children and pets from unpredictable weather and everyday wear.
While child safety latches are essential for high-risk areas like pools, you also need a heavy-duty security solution for general backyard entry and privacy gates. Consequently, the LokkLatch® DELUXE completely redefines perimeter security by replacing outdated hardware systems with an innovative, dual-sided locking latch system.
As a result, you get a premium, commercial-grade lock mechanism that operates smoothly and locks securely from both sides of your fence line without the need for padlocks, chains, or even cutting handle-holes in your beautiful fence panels.
Moreover, this lock is engineered to provide maximum security without sacrificing your daily convenience. Unlike commercial, auto-deadlocking latches that lock you out every single time the gate swings shut, the LokkLatch® DELUXE lets you choose. With the turn of a key, you can put the gate into an "always unlocked" position for easy, high-traffic access, or an "always locked" position to secure the yard for the night.
Why the LokkLatch® DELUXE delivers true peace of mind:
• Dual-Sided Key Operation Allows you to lock and unlock the gate securely from either the inside or outside of the yard.
• Vertical and Horizontal Adjustment Keeps the latch working perfectly even if the gate sags or the ground shifts over time.
• Industrial Polymer and Stainless-Steel Build Constructed entirely from 100% rust-free, UV-stabilized molded polymers and 316-grade stainless steel components that do not chip, bind, or stain your fence.
• Versatile Gate Compatibility Installs easily on vinyl, wood, or metal gates, accommodating gaps ranging from 3/8" to 1-1/2".
• Cycle-Tested Durability Extensively tested for over 200,000 closures and backed by D&D Technologies' product warranty.
How do I prevent my child from getting their fingers trapped or pinched in a fence gate?
D&D Technologies engineered the TruClose® Hinge Safety Cap. When installed by professionals like Chesterfield Fence and Deck, these specialized safety caps fit snugly over the tension adjustment ports of the hinges. By transforming the hinge profile into a smooth, sloped ramp, the cap blocks fingers from slipping into the gap while simultaneously helping remove the "toe hold" that adventurous toddlers use to climb over the gate line.
What is the safest type of fence gate latch for backyards with kids and dogs?
The absolute safest option is a magnetic, top-pull latch like the MagnaLatch® Series 3. Traditional mechanical gravity latches frequently jam or bounce back open if the gate is closed gently. Magnetic latches use powerful internal magnets to pull the latch closed without physical resistance, and the release button is placed high out of reach of children and jumping pets.
Can I lock a backyard fence gate securely from both sides without using padlocks?Yes, the LokkLatch® DELUXE Series 3 is specifically designed to handle dual-sided locking and external yard access. The LokkLatch® DELUXE features an external access button housing heavy-duty, 6-pin locks, allowing your family to safely unlock and enter the yard from the outside with a key.
Are self-closing gate hinges required by law for residential backyards?
While standard backyard fences vary by local municipality, self-closing and self-latching gates are strictly mandated by international building codes for any yard containing a swimming pool. An unlatched gate is the leading cause of accidental backyard wandering; therefore, pairing your fence with code-compliant TruClose® Hinges and a MagnaLatch® ensures your property meets strict local safety inspections.
Why Choose Chesterfield Fence & Deck For A Fence Install In St. Louis Missouri?
Choosing Chesterfield Fence & Deck for your fence installation ensures you are working with a premier, locally trusted contractor that has served the St. Louis area for nearly 60 years. First and foremost, we specialize in installing D&D latches and hinges, which are specifically engineered to withstand Missouri’s severe weather extremes while ensuring backyard security.
Whether you are moving from your pool deck to the backyard, our expert integration of D&D’s self-closing TruClose® Hinges and magnetic MagnaLatch® systems help ensure your children and pets stay protected and secure from accidental pool access.
In addition to structural security, our expert installation crews are fully versed in local St. Louis building codes, providing a seamless, stress-free construction experience from concept to completion. Ultimately, our long-standing reputation is backed by an A+ Better Business Bureau (BBB) rating and thousands of satisfied local homeowners. Therefore, investing in a Chesterfield Fence & Deck fence with D&D hardware ensures maximum efficiency, premier hardware security, and an immediate boost to your St. Louis property's resale value.
Give Chesterfield Fence and Deck a call and speak to their installation experts or visit their 25,000-square-foot showroom:
Visit: 620 Spirit Valley East Dr. Chesterfield, MO 63005
Call: (636) 532-4054
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Chesterfield Fence & Deck is an expert fence, deck, and outdoor living space installation company. With nearly 60 years of experience, you can ensure we are committed to quality and high standards of craftsmanship and customer service. Our office and showroom are located in Chesterfield, Missouri, where we are honored to serve homeowners in the St Louis, metro, and surrounding areas.
