Keeping Valuables Outside Safe: 3 Tips For Securing Sheds To Prevent Thefts

While most homeowners spend a fortune installing secure locks and alarm systems that protect the inside of their home from intruders and burglars, many often forget to do the same for their sheds. As a result, sheds are often the target of many break-ins and thefts. If you store valuable items within your shed, taking some extra time to upgrade the locks will be worth it. Here are 3 things you can do to further secure your shed to prevent theft.

Use One-Way Screws

Take a look at the screws that are holding the doors of the shed in place. Standard screws are easy to break. Burglars can easily unscrew the screws to bypass the locks and remove the door. Upgrade to one-way screws, or security screws. These slotted screws can be easily installed with a slotted screwdriver; however, they are almost impossible to unscrew without the right tools and without spending a lot of time and effort. The time it will take to remove these screws will deter burglars from trying to break into the shed.

Get Rid of the Standard Locks and Install Locks with a Cylinder

You'd be surprised at how weak the standard locks for sheds are. These locks can usually be easily broken with a bolt cutter. Have a locksmith remove these bolts and locks and install an actual lock that you would install for your home. Locks that meet the ANSI Grade 1 certification are highly recommended, as the knobs can withstand over 800,000 cycles, 6 door strikes and even a 360 pound weight test while the deadbolts can withstand at least 250,000 cycles and 10 door strikes. These locks are almost impenetrable.

With the amount of noise that it would take to break these locks, most burglars are simply not going to take the risk. If you store expensive items inside your shed, it's definitely worth shelling out extra money for a more secure lock.

Install a New and Secure Striking Plate

Many people often overlook the striking plate and splurge only on the locks. When getting a locksmith to upgrade the locks on your shed to ones that are suitable for commercial use, a professional locksmith will take the time to explain the importance of a secure striking plate. The striking plate is the other half of the equation and is responsible for reinforcing the door frame and anchoring the deadbolt of the lock in place.

Conclusion

Securing your shed by upgrading the locks will deter thieves and protect your assets within. Standard sheds are easy targets, as they are not secure as they appear. They can be easily broken into. Have a locksmith inspect the locks to determine whether an upgrade is necessary. Most of these upgrades can be completed within a day. For more information, visit websites like http://www.alocksmithriverside.com.