How to Find the Best Shed Door Locks | Dixie Safe & Lock Service Inc.

Most people are aware of how important it is to use only the best locks and security technology when sealing off their home, business, car or garage, but not everyone uses the same precautions when it comes to protecting their storage sheds. Whether its recreational vehicles, bicycles, expensive tools and gardening supplies or simply household items in storage, there’s a lot that’s stored in your shed worth shielding from thieves. To keep those items safe and sound, we recommend following these tips for finding the best lock for your shed door.

Certain kinds of locks work better with certain types of sheds. That’s why it’s important you first determine what kind of lock will work best with your set up before you have anything installed. First, consider the material with which your shed is constructed. Wooden sheds, for example, pair well with deadbolts and locking door handles because they provide a thicker, sturdier foundation for housing the hardware of these bulky locks. A shed made of a plastic or composite material will fare better with a quality padlock and hasp or latch lock due to its thinner walls and weaker construction.

To say it gets humid here in the Houston metro area is an understatement. All that moisture can do a lot of damage to a cheap or hastily chosen lock, which ultimately leaves your shed vulnerable to a break in. In some cases, a rusted or weather-worn lock and hinge can be extremely difficult to open, even with the correct combination or key. Weather-resistant and weatherproof locks won’t rust, corrode or lose functionality even in the wettest of conditions, so choose your lock wisely and don’t be afraid to invest a little extra for peace of mind.

As mentioned previously, there’s a lot that goes into determining which kind of lock you choose. If you have an idea of which kind of lock you’d prefer, be sure to account for all factors and limitations before you put your trust in it.

These are the most common type of shed lock because they can be used on just about any shed door. Choosing a padlock means you also must obtain a hasp, which is the part that connects to the shed door and allows the padlock to keep the door closed. The hasp is just as important as the lock itself. It must be firmly attached to the door with steel security bolts or it will be vulnerable to being pulled or snapped off.

If you have a wooden shed, or any shed with a thick, sturdy door and solid frame, a deadbolt is a more secure option than a padlock. Deadbolts are most effective when they’re correctly installed, so some might prefer to work with a trusted, professional locksmith so they can rest assured their deadbolt is functioning properly. Deadbolts that require a key on both sides are recommended for maximum security.

Since most shed doors are too thin for deadbolts to be effective, rim latches are more commonly used by homeowners. Rim latches, which are also referred to as rim locks or shed door latches, are similar to deadbolt locks in functionality, but the hardware is installed on the inside of the shed on the surface of the door rather than within the door itself. Many shed owners install their rim latches to the door’s crossbeam for added structural stability.

In many instances, purchasing and installing a lock of any kind alone isn’t enough to keep a criminal from breaking into a shed. Consider combining some of the following security measures with your shed lock for added peace of mind:

The best way to protect your shed and personal property from thieves and unwanted entry is to work with a trusted Houston area security professional, such as Dixie Safe & Lock Service Inc.. If you’re looking for only the best quality door hardware and locks for your home or business, Dixie Safe & Lock Service Inc. has exactly what you need to feel safe and secure. For more information or a fast price quote on locks, hardware and professional installation, call (713) 643-5767 or visit us online today!