Why Secure Outdoor Storage Is Important Now More Than Ever
Home is our place of safety, of rest and relaxation. It makes sense that we want to feel safe and secure at home, and rest assured that ourselves and our property are safe from harm. That's why home security is so important, and why you should invest in home security solutions such as CCTV, deadlocks and more. However, outside storage security is also just as important, as you may have valuable things in your shed with barn doors, such as tools and outdoor furniture. This helpful article explains why secure outdoor storage is more important now than ever. Continue reading to learn more about this topic.
The Context for Secure Outdoor Storage
First, we'll cover some important context for the rest of this article. To begin with, there is a rising trend in theft across Australia, with brazen burglars targeting Australian households more than ever. And, if a home is too secure for them to access, they will try the next best thing and target your outdoor storage spaces, looking for an easy theft of things such as tools and other valuables that you might have stored in outdoor areas like sheds or garages.
Additionally, as climate change progresses and harsher weather events occur, it's essential to have secure outdoor storage to protect items such as outdoor furniture and decor from storms, hail, and rain. As we see an increase in extreme weather events, it makes sense to invest in secure locations to store items outside.
Finally, shrinking household storage space is driving the demand for secure outside storage. As households accumulate more goods but run out of space inside to store them, outdoor storage, such as in sheds or garages, becomes the next likely place for people to store their belongings, further increasing demand for secure outdoor storage.
Risks of Unsecured Outdoor Storage
There are several risks associated with storing items outside without security. For one, theft is a very real threat, with thieves targeting households with unsecured outdoor storage. Tools are a major attraction to robbers, but they will also steal other household goods that are stored outside and not securely.
Weather damage is also another major risk, as items can be easily damaged by rain, hail, or even degraded by the harsh Australian sunshine. Especially in seasons when storms are more frequent, such as during winter and spring, but summer thunderstorms are also a major risk.
Unsecured items can also pose a significant risk of injury, as falling objects can crush and injure you or your family. Finally, insurance policies may not cover you if items are left outside or in unsecured sheds or garages, meaning you won't be covered for loss or damage in the event of theft or major weather events.
What "Secure" Really Means
You may be wondering what secure means in the context of this article. Fear not, because we'll illuminate you in this section.
Secure outdoor storage means that your outdoor storage areas, such as sheds, garages and the like, are constructed with hardy, durable materials that will stand the test of time. Stainless steel is an excellent material for outdoor storage locations, as is Colorbond, which can withstand harsh weather conditions and other environmental stressors.
You'll also want to invest in quality, durable locks and hinges for shed doors that can withstand tampering and attempts at forced entry.
Wind ratings for sheds are crucial, as they refer to the level of wind pressure or speed a shed can safely withstand without structural failure. These ratings are typically determined by national building standards that consider factors such as geographic location, terrain, and building height. When selecting a shed for your outdoor space, consider the wind rating and take into account local weather conditions. For instance, if you live in a cyclone-prone area like Northern Queensland, you'll want a shed that can withstand high winds.
Shed anchoring is also important. This refers to the methods used to secure a shed firmly to the ground, ensuring it can resist the forces of nature, such as wind uplift, lateral movement, and shifting due to uneven loads. Proper shed anchoring is crucial for both safety and compliance with building standards, particularly in areas prone to high winds or cyclonic conditions.
Fire resistance and other safety features are also important, especially if you live in a bushfire-prone area. You may want to consider investing in a fire-retardant shed or one with additional safety features, depending on your geographical location.
Secure Storage Options
There are several options for secure outdoor storage, such as steel or heavy-duty sheds that can withstand harsh weather and offer longevity over the years. You may also want to invest in lockable bike boxes to store your bicycles, as well as weatherproof deck boxes to store outdoor furniture and other items.
Other options include outdoor cabinets to store outdoor items, such as cooking and dining utensils, plates, and cutlery for those BBQ nights. Storage benches are another option, and you can also consider small shipping container lock-ups for secure outdoor storage.
When it comes to car storage, consider a carport with a lockable annex for added outdoor security, rather than a garage.
A Secure Summary
This helpful article explains why secure outdoor storage is more important now than ever. We've provided some background context for this article, including rising theft and weather-related events. The risks of unsecured storage are many, and we've also shared what "secure" really means. Finally, we've covered a variety of secure storage options that you can consider for your home.
