An ideal solution to protect expensive tools and equipment is a secure garden shed; however, having well-lit, sturdy fencing and security lights is also vitally important.
Maintaining privacy for sheds used as home offices, gyms and studios by covering windows with opaque security sheets is another great idea to increase their security. Installing strong yet cost-effective security sheets is also an affordable and simple solution that can increase shed protection.
1. Strong Locks
When it comes to security, there are various strategies we use in our homes. But our gardens play an equally vital role when it comes to keeping sheds, workshops, and summer houses safe – providing us with an opportunity to apply many of these same measures of defense there as well.
An effective door lock can make all the difference when it comes to protecting shed and garden building theft. A padlock with an excellent Sold Secure rating should be utilized, possibly in combination with an additional layer of security such as hasp and staple setups for extra peace of mind.
Consider purchasing a garden security bar that fits snugly between a shed or garage door and frame for added protection. These bars can easily be purchased from most DIY stores at a relatively cost-effective solution to increase security levels.
Access to a back garden is often neglected when it comes to security measures. Opening back gates sends a clear signal that your garden is vulnerable; installing additional security such as cross members with panelling to make climbing over it more difficult would be wise, or installing CCTV as this can serve both as an effective deterrent and provide clear footage of anyone approaching.
If your shed contains expensive tools like lawnmowers or bikes, such as mowers and bikes, it’s wise to secure them using security chains to deter theft. A chain can be attached directly to their handle, making it harder for thieves to transport away. Furthermore, many storage units provide strong cages or boxes specifically tailored for bike storage; this makes sure your equipment stays out of criminal hands!
2. Double Glazed Windows
Windows are an integral component of garden buildings, helping create the right atmosphere and letting natural light in while also being energy efficient by reducing heating needs for comfortable indoor temperatures.
Double glazed windows utilize two panes of glass separated by either an air or gas gap to provide superior insulation compared to single pane alternatives. The type of gas used to fill this space has an important bearing on performance – Argon or Krypton tend to be popular options with each providing different performance characteristics and cost efficiency to meet homeowner’s unique requirements.
Frame material also has an effect on window performance. uPVC frames offer great insulation properties and require minimal maintenance; aluminium can also be constructed with thermal breaks for enhanced energy efficiency; while their slimline designs make them suitable for contemporary aesthetics. Wood frames offer an antique aesthetic perfect for heritage buildings but must be regularly maintained to prevent weather damage as rot can occur over time and cause issues.
Accurate measurements are absolutely essential when it comes to selecting glazing for your home, since even minor variances in measurements could compromise its seal and lead to drafts and decreased energy efficiency. To ensure an exact fit, measure each window opening and mark out its required dimensions on its frame. Also important for optimal results are taking care to remove existing windows carefully in order to prevent any damage during removal and prepare the opening for new installation – using a utility knife can help loosen caulking or sealant around its frame which would help you free the window up for installation!
3. Shed Window Coverings
Shed windows serve a dual function: they bring natural light into your shed or garden workshop while simultaneously improving aesthetics and increasing security. Without protective window coverings in place, your shed could become an inviting target for burglars seeking bargains; uncovered windows offer clear views into its contents that reveal tools or valuables you might have stored within, giving thieves ample opportunity to steal anything they please from it.
As such, it’s crucial that shed windows are covered when not in use with opaque or privacy-enhancing products when not needed. Shed curtains may be suitable if your shed serves only for storage and doesn’t require natural lighting; alternatively, opaque window film provides an effective and cost-efficient option which can easily be attached over existing windows.
Toughened glass is another effective security measure that can be installed into your shed or garden building’s windows for increased protection from criminals looking to break in or damage its structure. Acrylic windows – known by brand names Plexiglas or Lucite – may also offer increased resistance, as they’re up to 17 times stronger than standard glass.
Fencing around your shed should also be strong enough to prevent thieves from simply walking over it and entering. Shrubs or bushes close by should also be regularly trimmed so they do not provide cover for criminals looking for easy targets – this simple step will radically enhance its security and make it less appealing for thieves.
4. Shed Door Locks
Shed door locks make an invaluable addition to any security system, easily installed and available at hardware stores at an economical price. They work by locking both sides of your shed’s door, so if someone gains entry through one side they cannot gain access to both sides if they attempt to gain entry through either. They serve as a deterrent from would-be thieves while protecting tools and valuables inside.
Solid metal lock bars can help to increase security for shed door locks even further, making a formidable deterrent against burglars and making your shed door locks harder targets for thieves. Furthermore, these solid bars come equipped with locking points on both sides making it much harder for intruders to break into it while looking better than traditional locks while being available in various styles and designs.
Another excellent idea is investing in a padlock with hidden shackle, as this will make it much harder for intruders to gain entry by cutting with bolt cutters and breaking in. Hard materials such as alloy steel or brass will provide added protection from damage and cracking.
If a burglar cannot gain entry through the door, they are likely to attempt breaking in through windows – therefore it is crucial that these are double glazed or shatterproof and covered by security shutters for maximum protection.
Another effective method of protecting your belongings from theft is engraving them or marking them with your name or other identifying details, making it easier for you to identify and recover stolen items more quickly. Furthermore, it might be worth asking your home insurer whether their policy covers your shed as this can offer further protection from theft.
5. Security Lighting
Outdoor security lighting can serve as an effective deterrent against thieves while creating a safer environment. Many LED security lights come equipped with features like motion detection, dusk-to-dawn functionality and remote access that enable homeowners to customize the sensitivity settings on their security lamps so that they only activate upon sensing movement on the property, helping lower energy costs, carbon emissions and create an environmentally sustainable lighting option.
LED security lights are highly reliable, requiring less frequent maintenance or bulb replacements, which allows property owners to save on operational and maintenance costs over time. Furthermore, their long lifespan helps save on disposal and recycling fees as there will be fewer bulbs needing disposal or recycling fees paid in future years.
Be mindful that over-illumination may draw unwanted attention to valuable items in your garden shed, so be cautious in where and how you place security lights. In particular, avoid installing them near doorways as this could provide criminals with an easy entry point.
Other than installing security lighting, there are other steps homeowners can take in their gardens to deter thieves from targeting sheds, workshops, and summer houses. Simple strategies such as keeping hedges low to restrict cover for would-be burglars or adding layers of gravel on paths and driveways make a big difference when trying to keep burglars out of your garden.
Smart intruder alarm systems that detect movement can also serve as an excellent deterrent against criminals, providing footage and alerts directly to your phone or computer, sounding an alarm if any unauthorised activity takes place on your property, and reporting this activity back to a central monitoring station if there’s any unapproved activity detected on it. Furthermore, this type of technology is relatively cost-effective and easy to install – an invaluable crime-deterrent!
