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Ideally, a gate should be able to swing both in and out. However, if it can only open in one direction, it is generally best for it to swing inward. This is often the safest option, especially for deck gates near steps, as you'll want the gate to swing away from the stairs. An inward swing also prevents the gate from opening into a public space, like a sidewalk, and can be more convenient when carrying heavy items like a wheelbarrow into a garden.

There are exceptions, however. The layout of your property may require a different approach. For example, if your property is on a slope, the gate may not be able to swing inward. You should also ensure the gate can open fully without colliding with any objects or blocking access to other areas. For a backyard garden gate where public access isn't a concern, the direction it swings is largely a matter of personal preference. Finally, always check your local building codes, as they may have specific requirements for which way a gate must swing.

High-tech solutions and strategic placement can help ensure the safety of your pet door. Pet doors can pose security risks, as well as the risk of stray or wild animals entering your home, but modern pet doors offer options like collar-based sensors to ensure doors will only open for your pet, and installing a pet door in an out-of-sight location or in a wall rather than a door can help to avoid intruders using the door to gain access to your home.

Butterfly hinges are one of the most common types of hinges and you can use them all over your home. Though they’re common on doors, cabinets, and shutters, you can even find them on decor, like jewelry boxes, music boxes, and trunks. Doors may have basic butterfly hinges, while the hinges on cabinets and decor may be more ornate.

The L marking on a door closer stands for latch speed and the S marking stands for swing speed. These two letters inform what part of the door closer you may be adjusting. The latch speed being the short final swing the door makes before closing and the swing speed being the long swing of the door when closing.