The Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Right Gate Lock for Wood, Metal and Composite Gates

The Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Right Gate Lock for Wood, Metal and Composite Gates

Selecting the right gate lock isn’t just about security, it’s about choosing a lock that fits your gate material and stands up to weather, usage, and long-term performance.

Whether you have a wooden garden gate, a steel driveway gate, or a composite entrance, the right lock will make all the difference.

This guide breaks down what to look for, how to measure correctly, and which Borg Locks models suit each gate type.

Wooden Gates: What to Look For

Wooden gates expand and contract depending on the weather, so you need a gate lock that:

• Tolerates movement in the material it is made from
• Offers weather resistance (Borg Locks are available with Marine Grade Pro)
• Doesn’t rely on electronics (Borg Locks are mechanical, not electrical locks)

The Best Borg Locks for Wooden Gates:

• BL3030 – Compact, min-gate lock with a back-to-back keypad, ideal for slim wooden gates
• BL3080 – Knob keypad & internal push/pull pad
• BL4401 ECP MG – Marine-grade for exposed wooden gates

Tips from the Borg Locks Team for wooden gates:

• Use stainless fixings
• Seal the timber around the lock area
• Check latch alignment seasonally

Metal and Hollow-Section Gates: Extra Strength Required

Metal and steel gates need a robust lock with proper through-gate fixing.

Best Borg Locks for Metal Gates:

• BL3400 / BL3430 – Strong latchbolt, lever handle
• BL3100 Series – Anti-climb keypads for added security

Tips from the Borg Locks Team for metal gates:

• Choose locks with extended backsets
• Use anti-tamper screws
• Ensure latchbolt fully engages the keep

Composite and UPVC Gates: Lightweight but Secure

Composite gates are becoming more popular but need locks that don’t strain the frame.

Ideal Borg Locks for Composite Gates:

• BL2401 – Tubular latch and free-turning lever
• BL2601 – Knurled knob keypad and holdback option

How to Measure Your Gate Before Buying a Lock

Measure these three things:

• Gate thickness (essential for choosing back-to-back lock versions)
• Stile width (narrow stiles may restrict your lock choice)
• Latch/bolt position

Our Borg Locks product pages list the exact measurements of our locks. We recommend you always compare before buying your gate lock.

Recommended Borg Locks Based on Gate Type

• Wood: BL3030, BL3080, BL4401 – these are the most forgiving gate locks on movement
• Metal: BL3400, BL3430, BL3100 – these are best gate locks for strength and access control
• Composite/UPVC: BL2401, BL2601 – these are lightweight gate locks and easy to fit

Conclusion – Picking the Right Borg Lock for Your Gate

• The right gate lock for you depends on your gate material, thickness, and environment.
• Choosing a purpose-built mechanical combination lock ensures better performance, safety and lifespan.

At Borg Locks, customer support is paramount. If you need help with your Borg Lock, or any other Borg Lock product, our team is available on WhatsApp during office hours (Monday to Friday, 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM). Whether you prefer chatting, messaging, or video calling, we’re here to solve any issues you might encounter. If you’d like personalised guidance on choosing a digital lock for your gate, then Borg Locks’ support team can recommend the perfect model based on your gate type.

Contact us on WhatsApp at 07483 457183 during UK office hours for immediate assistance.