Shed Window Security

This article will review shed window security, the potential weakness inherent in shed windows and some ideas for added security.

Do you have a garden shed? Perhaps a summer house, shack, tool shed or lean-to where you keep your bike. More and more people these days even work at home from a garden structure. Wooden garden chalets are popular, and many people see these buildings as an important extra space for casual use, storage or amenity.

Now, what do you keep in your garden shed (or chalet, shack etc.)? Perhaps an expensive tool set, mountain bike, power tools or even a train set lovingly built up over decades.

How would you feel if the shed was broken into and the choice items or equipment stored therein stolen? It's a fair bet that the expense, time and trouble would be a major headache. Shed window security is an important aspect in avoiding this.

The Window Weak Point

You have made sure that the door is solid, protected with a sturdy lock, but how about the window(s)? Shed window security is easy to overlook, but you can be sure that a reasonably determined burglar would not make the same mistake.

First, check the solidity of the window structure. Metal frames are preferable to wooden ones, but solid, tough wood can be reasonably difficult to force. Check for rust (if metal) or rot (if wood), sheds are exposed to the elements and can deteriorate quickly.

Next, the window itself. If you have glass windows, you should be aware that they are simple to shatter. Given a window large enough to allow entry, a thief can hurl a brick and then be in and out in seconds.

Be aware that a determined burglar can gain entry through surprisingly tight spaces, not to mention that many thieves may be children. Also, be aware of the position of the window. Could a smashed window allow the thief to unlock the door from inside or deactivate any alarm system?

The answer to this problem can come in two forms – toughened or polycarbonate windows to prevent shattering, and window grills or metal bars to provide a further barrier behind the window. Ideally, for maximum shed window security, a homeowner should consider using both. This will particularly be the case if you keep valuable items in your shed.

If you fit grills or bars, they should (of course) be installed behind the window and be secured in a way to make tampering as difficult as possible. Check that any hinges are of a secure type (look for security stud pins or security mortise hinges). A determined thief may have a hacksaw or similar, so the thicker the bars/grill the better.

Finally, you can fit a contact alarm to the window, which will activate if the window is broken or otherwise tampered with. Battery operated systems are quite cheap, easy to fit and can provide a good deterrent.

Protect for Peace of Mind

You will sleep much easier knowing that your garden shed (and its valuable contents) is well-protected and secure. Don't overlook shed window security in whatever steps you take.