D&D Technologies

A conventional gravity or spring latch needs the striker to physically lift a catch, so it wears, it binds when the gate sags, and it can be worked open by shaking the gate. The MagnaLatch latches magnetically. The striker only has to come within range; the bolt is then thrown by the magnet inside a sealed polymer body. Nothing rubs, so the action stays identical after years of use, and there is no mechanism a child can defeat by force.

Which pull do I need?

Top Pull is the pool-code classic: the release knob sits high on the gate, out of a small child's reach, and you pull straight up. Vertical Pull mounts the same way but is operated on the vertical axis, which suits narrower gate frames. Side Pull is the compact Series 2 option for gates where a top-mounted latch is not wanted, and is available lockable or non-lockable. All three fit metal, wood and vinyl gates.

MagnaLatch ALERT

The ALERT versions add an audible alarm to the Top Pull and Vertical Pull latches, so the gate announces itself when it is opened. On a pool gate that is the difference between a barrier and a barrier you can hear.

Locking and keying

The Series 3 latches use a 6-pin lock cylinder and ship keyed alike, so one key runs every latch on a property — the reason multi-gate sites and commercial installers standardise on them. Spare and duplicate keys are available.

Chain link and round posts

The MagnaLatch needs a flat mounting face. For round posts, and therefore for chain link gates, add the ML3RPK Round Post Adapter Kit; a factory kit pairing the Top Pull latch with the adapter is also stocked. A 2 inch gap spacer is available where the gate-to-post gap is wider than the latch allows.

Before you fit

Pool barrier requirements — latch height above grade, which way the gate must swing, maximum gaps — are set locally and are not the same everywhere. Check with your local building or pool safety authority before installing, and pair the latch with a self-closing hinge so the gate closes as well as latches.