Nowadays, everybody has a myriad of home security measures in order to keep themselves and their possessions safe from burglars, including alarms, lights, and even CCTV cameras. However, many of us choose to neglect improving the security of our garden sheds and storage buildings. Our sheds contain valuable items, especially when they’re used as garden offices or gyms, so why should they remain unprotected?
Aside from the obvious (don’t leave valuable possessions lying around your garden, as it's an open invitation to some) there are a number of things that can help to deter and prevent theft from garden sheds.
It is worth noting that the material your shed is constructed from will affect its security. An overlap wooden shed can be kicked through, whereas tongue and groove sheds are much more robust, leaving any attacker with a sore ankle rather than your garden tools. Again, metal or plastic sheds and storage buildings are very tough to break into; entry through the side panels is simply not an option for all but the most determined (and well equipped) delinquents.
Your first line of defence should be an outdoor light and CCTV camera. If anyone does decide to prowl around your garden, a motion triggered light is a great addition, dissuading most thieves. If CCTV cameras are within your budget, it would be wise to invest, as they can identify the crafty culprits even if the following techniques should fail.
Of course, the obvious entry point for your shed is the door, so make sure it is well protected. A lot of sheds will come with a hasp and staple as standard, ready for a sturdy padlock. Consider a padlock with a short shackle clearance, as this makes using bolt cutters much more difficult. Perhaps fit a second padlock on the door too, or a padlock with an alarm (yes it might annoy the neighbours but it’s definitely worth it). Nothing will make a burglar scarper quicker than a blasting siren.
Another weak point of your shed is the windows, as they allow prying eyes to look inside and see the goods on offer. Consider some blackout curtains or blinds – simple, yet effective.
If a particularly persistent pilferer does manage to get inside your shed without alerting anyone, there are still ways to prevent them from getting away with your treasured tools and other possessions. Firstly, lock/chain big items together. Stealing a lawnmower is hard enough, let alone when it’s chained to a ladder and some power tools. Also, consider etching your postcode onto high value items, as it can be passed to the police to enable them to identify your equipment far more easily.
Following these guidelines will reduce the likelihood of your garden shed or storage building being burgled. If you have any further suggestions on keeping sheds secure, please leave a comment and let us know.
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Author: Lewis Bradley