A padbolt is a sliding bolt that surface-mounts to the face of a gate, shed door or outbuilding. The bolt slides into a keep attached to the frame, securing the door in place. The staple on the body of the bolt also accepts a padlock, which prevents the bolt from being opened — adding a second layer of security without any specialist hardware.
Padbolts for Gates, Sheds and Outbuildings
A padbolt is one of the simplest and most cost-effective ways to secure a gate, shed door or outbuilding. MacBlair stocks a range of padbolts in a variety of sizes and finishes, suitable for everything from light garden gates to heavier agricultural and domestic applications. Each bolt surface-mounts directly to the face of the door or gate — no chiselling or cutting out required — making them a genuinely quick fix for most DIY installs.
The range covers the most commonly specified finishes:
- Galvanised — hot-dipped for lasting corrosion resistance outdoors
- Black — a traditional painted finish suited to timber gates and fencing
- Stainless steel — where long-term durability and appearance matter
Padbolts work by sliding a bolt bar into a keep, which can then be secured with a padlock through the staple — locking the gate or door from that side. They can be fitted horizontally or vertically depending on the application. Common sizes run from 100mm through to 200mm, so it's worth checking the gate thickness and frame depth before ordering. Pair them with the rest of your hardware using the Latches and Gate Fittings range, or pick up Gate Hinges to complete the job in one order.
Padbolts sit alongside the wider Fencing range at MacBlair, which includes Garden Gates and Fence Posts for full installation projects. Whether the job is a new gate or a simple security upgrade on an existing structure, the range has the fittings to get it done properly.
Padbolts FAQ's
For most standard garden gates, a 150mm (6 inch) padbolt is a common choice. If the gate is heavier or wider, a 200mm bolt gives a longer throw and more purchase on the keep. Measure the depth of your gate frame before ordering to make sure the fixing screws will seat properly, and check whether you need coach bolts or screws for your material.
Galvanised padbolts are coated in zinc to resist rust, making them the better option for exposed outdoor use, particularly in wet or coastal conditions. Black padbolts have a painted finish that suits traditional timber gates and fencing aesthetically, but may need periodic maintenance to prevent corrosion. Stainless steel padbolts offer the best long-term corrosion resistance and are worth considering for gates that will see constant exposure to the elements.
Yes. Padbolts are one of the more DIY-friendly gate fittings available. They fix directly to the surface of the gate or door using screws or coach bolts — no chiselling, routing or cutting out required. A drill, the right fixing hardware, and a spirit level to get it straight are all you need for a clean, functional install. Most people can fit one in under 30 minutes.
Yes, padbolts are compatible with both timber and metal gates, as well as shed doors, garage doors and stable doors. The key consideration is the fixing method: timber gates typically take wood screws or coach bolts, while metal gates may require self-tapping screws or through-bolts depending on the material thickness. Check the manufacturer's recommended fixing spec before installation to get a secure mount.