Installed a wooden gate last weekend, and it swings fine but the latch just won't line up right. It's off by maybe half an inch, and I already drilled the holes so moving it isn't exactly simple. I'm guessing the post shifted slightly or something. Anyone dealt with this kinda thing before? Is there a trick to adjusting it without redoing the whole setup? Really hoping there's an easy fix here...
Had a similar issue with a gate at one of my rental properties last year. Installed it myself, felt pretty proud, then realized the latch was off by about the same amount you're describing. Turns out the post had shifted slightly after installation—probably due to settling or moisture changes in the soil. Anyway, I wasn't thrilled about re-drilling either, so I tried a few things first.
One quick fix that worked surprisingly well for me was using a metal latch plate extender. Basically, it's just a small metal plate you attach to the existing latch area, extending it slightly so the latch can catch properly. You can find them at most hardware stores, or even make one yourself if you're handy with a grinder or hacksaw. It's not the prettiest solution, but once painted to match, no one really notices. Plus, it saved me from having to redo the whole setup.
Another thing you might consider is shimming the hinges slightly. If the gate is sagging or misaligned just a bit, adding thin washers or small wooden shims behind the hinge plates can sometimes shift the gate enough to line up the latch. I tried this on another gate that had a similar issue (yeah, gates and I have a complicated relationship), and it worked like a charm. Just be careful not to overdo it, or you'll end up with a gate that swings weirdly.
Honestly, I'd try the latch plate extender first—it's quick, cheap, and pretty forgiving. If that doesn't do the trick, then maybe look at shimming the hinges. Either way, definitely don't stress too much. Gates seem simple, but they're sneaky little things... always finding ways to humble us DIYers. Good luck!
