How to Secure Your Garden Shed

Many people use their sheds as storage for things like bikes, lawnmowers, scooters and more. Which, if you think about it - aren’t cheap! For others, the shed is just a place to store things you don’t want in the house or tools. No matter how you slice it, your shed is a hub of temptation for criminals. 

Sheds are targeted because they are usually easy to access, break into, and run away from. Criminals are less likely to disturb the family as they sleep in the house. How can you make sure that your shed is as secure as possible? 

Structurally wonky and wobbly sheds are easy to pull panels off or simply kick down. Take a look at the state of your shed, and make some improvements, though if you think your current shed isn't worth saving (think rotting wood or subsidence!), it might be worthwhile to knock it down and purchase one of these duramax sheds online instead. If you do, however, think you can salvage your old shed, here are some of the things to look at: 

• Check the panels; look got holes, splits and gaps
• Secure the beams and posts for movement; if they move, secure them into the floor with a Fosroc conbextra gp mix
• Can you open the window from the outside? 
• Check the roof for holes and damage
• Treat the wood with oil, varnish or sealant

Locks 
A huge mistake that people make is not investing money into the locks that are on the shed. The locks should be heavy-duty padlocks and sturdy. Small locks, or those that are cheap (and mass-produced with the same key), aren’t going to give you the protection you want. 

Check the fastener, too; sometimes, a strong padlock isn’t enough if the fastener is hanging off. 

HingesAny exposed hinges where the pin is accessible are easy pickings for criminals. Any exposed hinges that you can get a screwdriver in from the front means your door isn’t safe. Replace any old door hinges with non-removable pins, and change outside hinges to inside ones. 

Your shed door is the first point of protection, so it is essential that you make sure it provides the right level of protection. 

Windows Windows are one of the first places that criminals will try to use to enter your shed. Any uncovered windows will allow people to see into the shed, and that could be all the temptation they need. Unless you need light going into your shed for plants, then it is better for you to cover the windows. 

Lighting Do your motion sensor lights hit the shed so that if people try to get into it, they will be flooded by light? If your shed happens to be in a dark corner of the garden, where the light does hit it at all - you need to consider adding lights nearby. 

Light is one of the most important deterrents for criminals when it comes to breaking into a shed. 

Aside from making sure your shed is in a good state of repair, having a shed that looks gorgeous is something that can be an interesting addition to the garden - especially if you like entertaining! Here is some inspiration for your next garden soiree: A summer garden party - Bellechella - The Belle Blog.